All Cape…all the time!

I’ve committed to 3 races for this Summer/Fall season and all have the word “Cape” in them.  That doesn’t dazzle you in any way?  No?  Well, I think it’s cool. 

Cape Ann YuKanRun ½ Marathon

Cape Ann Race Around the Cape 25K

Cape Cod Marathon

My big race is the Cape Cod Marathon of course.  And it’s only 100 days from today!!  Interestingly, while training for Boston this past Winter, I wasn’t sure I would be registering for a Fall marathon.  I was feeling tired and a little burnt out from training.  Yet, just a couple of months post Boston 2011, I have never felt stronger.

The thing about marathon training is, it’s hard.  It’s long and sometimes difficult to hold the pace throughout the weeks needed to get there.  So far this Spring/Summer has found me re-energized.  I don’t really know why, but I am not questioning it.  I’ve had 2 really strong marathons recently that have helped me see that I can push a little harder and not die.  In fact, I did more than not die; I did OK.  So, with that in my recent running memory banks, I feel like I’m channeling the Kara Goucher in me.  Although I am far from being an Olympic athlete, I too face the challenge of how to improve without breaking.  I don’t need to win these races (good thing, cuz that ain’t happening anytime soon), but my goal is to be able to keep doing this as long as I can. 

I’ve heard good things about the Cape Cod Marathon, but also that it’s a very hilly course.  Good.  I’m ready for hard and hilly.  I’m hungry for a challenging course.  I’ve got hills already in the bank with more to come!  So, when I’m ready to make that withdrawal from my “hill account” in October, I plan to have plenty there to draw from.

I’m also looking forward to seaside views….

And the blur (hopefully I’m running that fast) of the cranberry bogs… 

Mostly, I’m eagerly anticipating the approach to beautiful Nobska Lighthouse….

My other 2 “Cape” races are in a different area of the state, but still beautiful.  Both are run along coastal routes with ample rolling hills to keep me honest.  Each will serve as a great training opportunity to help with speed and endurance, but also help keep me engaged in my marathon training.  There’s nothing like a race to keep things exciting.   

Hello Cape Cod Marathon medal....come to mama!!