Ready, set....

I am ready for my race.

 

The last two weeks I have not had great long runs due to the pain in my knee, but I know I will be fine tomorrow.  I am not even going to think about the last two weeks.  And if I do, it is only to think, I did not quit because I am strong.

 

I have my race package.

 

I have my chip on my shoe.

 

I have my outfit ready.  (They are now calling for 8*C and cloudy with sunny breaks for Sunday morning)

 

I have my playlist loaded on my iPod, complete with cheesy pop songs from years past that remind me of people and places that give me strength.

 

I have transit directions.

 

I am hydrated.

 

I have my goals:

• Finish faster than last time (this shouldn't be a problem as I ran painfully slowly for the first 10 km of my last race)
• I will be ok if I finish in under 2:20
• I will be happy if I finish in under 2:15
• I will be ecstatic (and shocked) if I finish in under 2:10

I have a plan: 

• Neither try to keep up with anyone at the start, nor worry about anyone passing me.  I will run my own race.
• Stop at the water/Powerade stops (I only stopped at one in my first race - insane!)
• Aim for a 6:15/km pace, but don't get frustrated if slowed down at water stops (I have no idea how this is going to be with so many people!), and speed up at the end as I feel comfortable. 

I have plans to meet up with a friend for brunch post-race.

I am ready!