Notes
This race felt amazing! I am so glad we had the opportunity to run this course two weeks in a row. Being patient at the start and building through the race worked so much better. I felt more relaxed and rhythmic. I still feel like I could have been more mentally present, though. Going up the hill at the end there was a girl from Stout in front of me and her coach was yelling at her to pass me. I didn't let her get to far in front of me on our way up but she got further ahead going down the hill. If I had just kicked a little harder I wouldn't have let her get me.
I have never felt so happy coming down the chute in my entire life. The combination of chasing someone down (even though it was unsuccessful) and looking up at the clock to see a PR felt amazing. I had no idea I was running as well as I was. I knew I felt good, but wasn't sure if it was going to translate to a good time. My goal was to break 26 and I'm so glad it happened today.
This season has been amazing in so many ways. Deciding to run this year was the second best decision I have ever made for myself. I am so grateful for all of the opportunities I've had to improve not only as a runner but a person this season. Looking ahead makes me so excited because I know I still have so much room to grow. I can't wait to find my ceiling!
:) :) :)