26.2 reasons why I run...

This morning is the eve of the Philadelphia Marathon, which will be my fourth marathon. I never set out to be a runner but somehow running found me. It is amazing how something could be so inspiring, motivating, unconditional, exhausting, invigorating, and challenging all at the same time. Running gives me the freedom to move, to go distances I never thought possible, to dream big, reach for goals and to never quit trying. Running clears my head of the clutter and is where I do my best brainstorming. Some days running is my best friend; always there for me, ready to push me to be better, not just at running but in life, work, with family, and friends.

There are more than 26.2 reasons why I run and tomorrow as sister and I (Team True Event) run through the streets of Philadelphia a week before Thanksgiving I will be thinking about all of the reasons I am so thankful that running came into my life. Even when the wall hits at mile 20, that is what usually gets me through, the high/joys of being able to run.
**For those of you interested tracking us follow trueevent on twitter as we pass various mileposts.

Quiet your mind... Enjoy the Ride!

With the pace things have been running at over the last couple of months it was so nice to slow down this past weekend and enjoy a few days of absolutely gorgeous Fall weather, it felt like Summer on Saturday.

A really good friend of mine sent me this song last week that was so perfect for the way I had been feeling lately! I just had to share as you all get ready to begin the week. When I go out for a run it plays at least 3 times on repeat, and I am instantly re-inspired, and ready to go again. Happy Monday!

Running for a Cause... Life is Good Kids Foundation

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Most of you know about my great love of running and all the reasons it is such a huge part of my day-to-day. However, I recently started thinking that I would like to run for something bigger than myself, a reason that would benefit hundreds of people, not just one. A cause that is near and dear to me is the Life is Good Kids Foundation. The Life is Good Kids Foundation supports extraordinary charities that create a lasting positive impact on children facing unfair challenges and life-threatening conditions, including the trauma of violence, poverty, and loss. So, this April 25th, I am running the first of a couple of big races this year for the kids. April 25th is the Nutmeg half marathon in Washington, CT. Not only do we hope for a great team of runners to join us in this mission, but we love the fans and the cheers along the way! In order to join Team True Event you don't have to be a runner, just someone with a passion for helping others. We hope you will join us in supporting this incredible organization.

If you would like to join the True Event Team please email me at sarah@trueevent.com or visit my facebook page to become a fan.

Winter Running... Essential Gear

Lately I have been asked alot of questions about running. What keeps me motivated, what schedule I follow, what gear is best in winter, etc. So I thought I would periodically do posts on running and share some of the things I have learned along the way.

The weather in New England in the winter with months of snow, ice, sleet and the shortness of daylight hours makes running that much more challenging than any other season. One of the things I have been searching and searching for over that last couple of years is the best night gear on the market so that I can be safe on the roads when the sun is going down. So when I stumbled across Saucony's line of reflective gear I was so excited. It is absolutely brilliant!

Benefits of ViZi-PRO from Saucony on Vimeo.

Top 5- Winter Running Essentials

1. Saucony Vizi-Pro Soniclite HD Jacket, $89.95
2. Saucony Ulti-Mitt, $38
3. Smartwool Socks, $13.95
4. Nike Hatphone, $49.99
5. Craft Pro Zero/Warm Base Layer, $59.99-$74.99

Across the finish line...

Day before the marathon at the expo picking up my packet and number to race.

My father in law (George) and I at the finish in Manteo, NC with our medals.

Since many of you have been following my training and blog postings about the marathon I thought I would give a quick recap of the race.

Yesterday turned out to be one of the most incredible runs I have had since I decided to train to be a marathon runner just over 3 years ago. At the start of the OBX marathon it was absolutely perfect conditions and I felt great the entire run. I highly recommend this marathon for people that are considering a place to do their first one. The course was great, although the unexpected trail portion of the course was quite challenging, sand, sticks, hills, exposed roots, rocks, fun times! I have no idea how the guy running in barefoot made it out of there.

I stayed with the 4 hour pacer for most of the run but started to pull away just after mile 13. I was hoping to beat sister's personal record of 3:40 but came in with an official time of 3:57:38, which for me was a personal record. Until the next one!

Why I run...

View on the beach this morning. Nags Head, NC

Why I Run... There are many reasons why I run.

I love the freedom of the open road. I love the the clarity and silence I find in myself by the end of a long run. I love exploring new places and discovering beauty in unexpected spots. I love it because I could push myself as hard as I possibly could, drag my feet along on tired days, or just run without a thought about my pace. On bad days running is always there for me. On lonely days running is a good friend. On beautiful sunny days I couldn't imagine a better way to enjoy the afternoon. And in the middle of winter the brisk air fills me with life.

I guess running really has become such a huge part of who I am. I couldn't imagine my days without it, and tomorrow at 7:20 when the OBX marathon kicks off I am hoping for the energy to carry me to the finish. It is really an unpredictable experience, but truly one that leaves you changed for the rest of your life.

Some of my favorites...

Why I RUN...

"My philosophy: You never know how far you can go until you go too far. I love seeing just how far the body and mind can be pushed" - Jen Segger

" Running helps me achieve mental clarity and explore new places at my own pace."- Senja Palonen

"You have to forget your last marathon before you try another. Your mind can't know what's coming."
-Frank Shorter

"The marathon's about being in contention over the last 10K. That's when it's about what you have in your core. You have run all the strength, all the superficial fitness out of yourself, and it really come down to what's left inside you. To be able to draw deep and pull something out of yourself is one of the most tremendous things about the marathon." - Rob de Castella

Onward...

Two days until I run the OBX marathon. It is hard to believe after 18 weeks of training with Hal Higdon's program the week of the race is here.

In the spirit of the marathon, I came across this video today via wonting and it made me smile. The adventures of running, you never know what you will encounter on the open road. Hoping for a good weather day on Sunday.

The film was inspired by certain personal experiences in running – a favorite run over Blanchland moor in Northumberland, being attacked by a crow in Singapore – and also by the transcendent, almost psychedelic experience of the simple act of running. -James Jarvis