My First Race Didn't Kill Me

When you work out six days a week, running a 4K shouldn't be too difficult. It is, after all, only 2.5 miles. That's a distance most people would consider a short evening run.

Not me. I was certain a 4K, or a run of any distance, would be the death of me.

Going into my first-ever race this weekend, I felt like the K in 4K stood for 1,000. I'm not a runner, nor have I ever aspired to be one. But losing 45 pounds since January 24 has been a huge motivator to me. As I've watched my body transform on the road to being in the best shape of my life, I couldn't help but think what it would feel like to cross the finish line of a 5K.

This would be a great accomplishment and another goal to set for myself, I thought. Then I heard about the Seattle Frontrunners' Run and Walk with Pride event, which offers a 4K track. This was even better because, A) it still was an official race and, B) it was one whole K less than the standard 5K charity races. It would be the best scenario for a first race.

While I did less than the optimal amount of running preparation in the weeks leading up to Sunday's event, I did keep up my regular gym routine. I knew going into race day that I could finish it without having to slow my pace to a walk ... if I could just keep my head from getting in the way.

Physically, I'm in good enough shape to run such a short distance. Mentally, I get the idea stuck in my head that I cannot go another step because I'm going to die from a lack of oxygen.

My solution: knee-high rainbow socks. Not really, but I'm going to give those things the credit. And my friend Whitney, picture below, who I swear didn't sweat a drop. I officially hate her.

Having Whitney running alongside me, I was able to keep a better pace. When I was going into mental meltdown mode, she was great about telling me I could do it. All I had to do was focus on getting my breathing back on track, and I was good to go for a little longer.

When I saw the finish line ahead in the distance, I really didn't know if I could make it. I turned to Whitney and said, "I'm going to run ahead." I knew it would feel better if I pushed everything I had out in that last little bit of the run. Look at that picture above and you'll see I even passed someone who, obviously, is in way better shape. He looks like a regular runner, yes?

Not bad for a first attempt. Now, even though I said this would be the only race I would ever run, I am planning on signing up for a 5K later this summer. Just don't expect to see anything about a 10K or half-marathon on here. That's just ridiculous.