Well, it is official – I am running a marathon, and I am running this marathon very soon! On December 4th, 2011 I will be able to call myself a “marathoner”, and I couldn’t be more ready for that title. I have been a runner for years, however running marathon has always been my goal and my dream.
Years ago, my Dad told me I was not “allowed” to run a marathon until I was 25 years old (he thought it would be too hard on my body before that). Well Dad, I am 25 and it is time. I have been running my butt off the past few months, and why not top off all the training with the mecca of all races – a MARATHON. Following a nudge from Stacy and encouragement from my Mom, I decided that it was for sure time for me to do this. And I will be doing this at the Dallas White Rock Marathon.
To me, a marathon means that I am in a new category of runners. It seems like every time I tell people that I am a runner, they quickly follow up by asking “Oh! How many marathons have you done?”. Well after December 4th, I will no longer have to answer by saying, “None…BUT I have done 4 half marathons and a TON of 5k’s!”. Now I will be able to say, “I have done one! AND 4 half marathons and a TON of 5k’s!”, and I will say this with a big smile on my face.
As of December 4th, I will have accomplished something that very few people do. I will also have an immense amount of pride in myself knowing that I did so. This race will not be about time (completely) but will be about accomplishing a dream.
I appreciate all of the encouragement, thoughts and prayers people send my way the next few weeks. Stay tuned for more updates on the marathon training, and also the inevitable fears and moments of anxiety that will surely come my way.
xo!
Ali
miles with style 
AH good luck Ali cat!! I know you’ll do great! You’re a natural runner and will kick some marathon butt…good luck training! xo, Dev
Full marathon! I am so proud! you are brave and devoted. I will toast with a glass of champagne in your honor that day.
Your lazy aunt (you know which aunt)
And I will be there with my camera being a mom! Love you!
Woohoo, first step is over! I so wish I could be there to cheer you on, but I know you will do so great and kick major booty all while looking fabulous! I LOVE YOU! Love – Lindsey
OMG! Congratulations!!! that is sooo soon! Can’t wait to read all your posts during your training.
Good luck, Ali! I will look out for your first tweet after crossing the finish line. And make sure you post a race report here, I wanna hear all about it!