What Should You Do if Your Training is Interrupted?

Preparation. Preparation. Preparation. Don't underestimate the value of preparation before your next event. "Winging it" may occasionally get you by, but you can't perform at your best.
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I learned this lesson, again, Saturday at the Wrightsville Beach Marathon. Despite years of running experience, and a huge "base" of training, my time was 39 minutes over my goal! What happened? Why??

1. I was underprepared. Due to a 10 day bout with a sinus infection a month before the marathon, I was unable to put in the necessary training.
2. Lack of training affected my race physically and mentally. My body wasn't ready and mind had a difficult time visualizing success.
2. Instead of adjusting my goal to a much more attainable time, I forgot all of the "rules" and attempted to run at my original goal pace. It worked for 17 miles. The last 9 miles were a combination of walking, running--very slowly to the finish.

My last two and half weeks of running consisted of only one "quality run". Even so, I stubbornly stuck to the notion that my previous running "base" and experience would carry me through. But, my confidence level was low, and I struggled to overcome higher than normal pre-race anxiety fueled by self-doubt.

What should I have done? What should you do if faced with the same circumstances?

The biggest mistake was thinking there were only two choices--run or not run. Using (20/20) hindsight, it's clear that adjusting my marathon goal by 15-20 minutes would have resulted in a better overall result. 
The other option--the best option-- was the half marathon. Run 13.1 miles successfully, gain strength and confidence while continuing to train for a marathon in the near future.

What should you do? Number one, evaluate **ALL** of your options for race day. Put aside ego and pride. Go run your best race at a distance that matches your preparation. Enjoy the moments--and your accomplishment. Every race is a victory.

Despite the "crash and burn" at 17 miles there are always positives to take from disappointment.
• After almost three years of dealing with an injury that made completing a marathon ever again questionable, I survived--intact.
• At Mile 17 my car was within 100 yards! I knew my race was going downhill. The urge to quit overwhelming, it was tempting to get in my car and drive home. Very happy that I kept going. 
• At mile 21 my leg cramped so badly that walking was difficult. I thought my day was over--again--but decided to walk up one more hill just in case it went away. Fortunately it did!
• Most importantly--we have an remarkable running community in Wilmington. So many supportive, kind and giving people--in the race and on the course. I am so grateful for all of the encouragement along the way--and it's an honor to run with you all.