So I’ve been contemplating doing something I have not yet done – running a race with team in training.
It’s not that I need the push, or the structure, or the team comraderie, though I’m sure all of those things are great.
I’d really like to make my next marathon about something other than my desire to push myself that far.
In my first half marathon, I’d just suffered a miscarriage, an unexpected finding at 11 weeks when I was still deathly sick. During the entire half, which I ran about 4 months later – having never run more than 8 or so miles previously – I said goodbye and let go. It was an emotional experience, as was my first marathon: I lost my aunt and a close friend and then my mom had a stroke, within three months of the first marathon I ran. I ran it in the rain, a torrential downpour uncommon in So Cal, saying goodbye to people I had loved and sending my mom strength to overcome what the stroke had done to her both physically and mentally.
My last marathon – well, it was all me. I didn’t have anything to say goodbye to, or to look forward to, during the race. I just ran. And I enjoyed it, but it made me wonder if I could do it for something else, something good.
Leukemia is close to me not because I know someone who has suffered from the illness but because my oldest had a blood condition that we thought for a while might be leukemia. I did a lot of research during that time regarding children and leukemia and it broke my heart. I’ve always been drawn to TNT when I’ve considered doing a charity race.
I’m looking into the San Francisco run, Nike Women’s Marathon, in October.
Have you ever done a charity run, or a TNT race? If so was your experience negative or positive, and would you do it again?
I’d love to hear your stories, if you want to share!
In running news, I did five today, a good strong five after taking a day off I normally don’t take. This week I’m running four days instead of five as I make my switch in schedules and it is going well. I don’t feel as burned out. Tomorrow I’m doing my bike and run, probably 4 or 5 on the bike and 3-4 running.
In non running news, I trimmed my hedges today. Sounds like fun, and it was, but it’s tough work! It took an hour to trim and an hour to clean up. Now my body is slightly sore! So while the kids take quiet time, I’m off to do some reading and, shhh, possibly catch twenty minutes of shut eye!
There is nothing quite like running a marathon as part of the great purple Team in Training machine. Especially the Nike Women’s Marathon which is thousands of TnT women being cheered for by thousands of TnT supporters. You really get the feeling that you’re part of something bigger, something important. I challenge anyone to run that as part of TnT without getting a bit weepy at some point before, during or after the race.
The overall TnT experience depends in large part on the individual teams and the coaches. I’ve spent many seasons as both a participant and a mentor and the Northern California group is great. I’ve heard that some small states or small towns don’t meet as frequently and there isn’t the bonding or the true coaching.
As an experienced marathoner it will be a little different for you, but with a good TnT coach you can work on improving any running skills that interest you, whether it’s form or speed or nutrition.
Just as important are the funds that are raised for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Normally at least 75% of every dollar raised goes directly to the cause, either research or patient services. Other groups spend a lot more than that on overhead and you don’t feel as good about fundraising.
I’d say give it a try. It sure beats pruning hedges.
Amys last blog post..Four hours, fifteen minutes
That’s great information, thanks! I have yet to get a call :0( But I am going to look at the virtual TNT site, too. That may work better due to my rural location lol.
I like the fact that I could get help with other running skills. I believe any type of help can make vast improvements! Thanks Amy!
Kathy, I am going to see how the Disney Marathon 2010 goes. If all goes well, I’d be up for the Nike in October 2010. Let me know if you plan to do it.
Oh wow, that would be awesome Mel! I would be in! I’m still looking at how to schedule races this year so I can get in two marathons before the heat of summer. I’m thinking one in Nov and then one in March or so. But I’m not sure. I will totally come down to cheer you on in Disney this year, and if the Nov/Dec one doesn’t work out I will be there to run with you
)
Thanks for great post. This is very informative with useful tips and advice .I’ve always been drawn to TNT when I’ve considered doing a charity race. I like it.