Acording to the schedule I posted here about a month ago, I was supposed to have run 8 miles today. But, two weeks’ worth of foot pain and an unforgiving work schedule have put my past two weekly mileage totals at under 10 miles each (well below my 25m/week goal). Not wanting to risk injury by ramping up my mileage too quickly, I opted for my favorite 5-miler over the Queensborough Bridge and back. Started out with tightness in my chest, but once I was fully warmed up, my circulation kicked in and I ended up finishing feeling strong, and grinning at just about everyone (yes: like a crazy person). On my way out, I waved at the Roosevelt Island tram, but even though it was crammed with tourists, no one waved back. On my way back, I ran by a guy pedaling over the bridge on a unicycle! Time: 52:44.
I had my iPod dialed to the D’s in MyTop Rated, and the rotation I stretched to was comprised of four perfect songs: “Doctor My Eyes” by Jackson Browne, “Don’t Be Cruel” by Elvis Presley, “Don’t Do Me Like That” by Tom Petty, and “(Don’t Go Back to) Rockville” by R.E.M.
Last night I registered to volunteer at the More Marathon and Half-Marathon, handing out finisher medals at the finish line. I’ve always thought, apart from simply cheering like a one-woman pep squad on the side of the road, handing out medals has to be the best non-runner thing to do at a marathon. The NYRR added one volunteer event to the requirements for guaranteed entry to the 2009 NYC Marathon (which I think is a great idea), and this medal distribution will fulfill that requirement. Frankly, I can’t believe I got so lucky, it seems like a priviledge to congratulate all the women who will complete these races.
Pigtails Flying 