But, not my day.
It began as a perfect day for a marathon. With temps starting in the low 40’s and clear skies, I lined up with friends for the Aspire Harrisburg Marathon. Everyone was looking forward to taking a spin on the new course, seeing fresh neighborhoods and finishing on Restaurant Row among early diners and cheering spectators.

The first 7-8 miles were well-paced staying around 9:30 – 9:40. At around mile 9, I took a sip of my Tailwind and soon after began feeling nausea and light in the stomach. I continued on pace, hoping it would pass, but it was not to be. It persisted with some side cramps adding to the mix.
I was holding my pace but after another couple miles, I knew it was time to take stock and make a decision to tough it out or call it a day. I had looked forward to running the new course around mile 16 – 20 through a small neighborhood and historic rural scenery along the river.

You’re one tough lady Mary Lou. Rest and move forward.
Thanks, Andy. My thoughts exactly – rest and move forward.
it is so hard to keep Ego at bay–thanks for sharing your inner dialogue and the excellent compromise.
You are welcome. Hoping I won’t need to make that compromise anytime soon.
You should be proud that you attempted the marathon! There will be other chances, other races. It is impressive that you stuck with it for so long, and have a good attitude about the end result. Thank you for this post!
I’m not sure it was a feeling of pride – more one of practicality. Just one of those fluky days. You’re right – there will be other races, a very good reason to let this one go by the wayside.
Oh well. It happens. It’s not fun, but sometimes the body can only get us so far! Keep a good attitude about it and live to run another day!
Thanks, and I totally agree with you in thought and intent.
Delightfully told tale. After the battle was over, Mary Lou won. So glad you’re ready to go again.
Thanks, Cordell. And I am looking for (and forward to) the next race.
Cheers to You Mary Lou!!!
Thanks, Patrick. I know you toughed through your first marathon this fall. Congrats to you.
When you are raring to go, I am sure it must be hard to put it in reverse.. Take care!
More difficult mentally than physically, but I’ll be at the start line another day. Good to hear from you.
I’m sorry it seemed disappointing. I don’t think I could ever do a marathon – every time I try to increase I get all these aches and pains. I still think you’re awesome!
We’re rather opposites. Distance running feels better to me than just a few miles. I really don’t know why. If you’re happy with your distance, not to worry. If not, have you explored when & why the pain occurs? Thanks for stopping by.