The Big Sur International Marathon is not just a race; it’s a rite of passage that marks the journey of many who dare to tackle the full 26.2 miles. A recent post from a user named liasadako reflects on her first marathon experience, sharing both the highs and lows of the day. Covering her training regime, race day experience, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with marathon running, the post has garnered an overwhelmingly supportive response from the community. It’s a feel-good saga filled with perseverance, a sprinkle of humor, and determination that resonates with many runners in the community.
Summary
- The post details liasadako’s first marathon at Big Sur, highlighting the challenges she faced and her personal triumph in finishing.
- Supportive comments reveal a positive sentiment surrounding the race, showcasing community spirit and camaraderie among runners.
- Many commenters reminisce about their own experiences at Big Sur, affirming it to be a breathtaking yet demanding course.
- There’s an overarching theme of learning from mistakes, as liasadako reflects on her training and race strategies.
Preparing for Big Sur
Preparing for a marathon is akin to preparing for a high-stakes exam; the more you cram in beforehand, the better your chances on the day. For liasadako, this journey began with consulting seasoned marathon runners to select the Hal Higdon Marathon 3 training plan. However, she admits early on that her training was far from perfect, especially during the cold months when motivation was low. “Honestly, obvious takeaways here are I should have stuck better to the training plan,” she shares, emphasizing how sticking to her regimen would have made her journey smoother. It’s a common plight among athletes—years of dedication can sometimes unravel in a few months of neglect. On her path, she made valuable choices, incorporating cross-training, but she found herself consistently falling short in mileage. Yet, she remained resolute, ultimately completing long runs that up to 20 miles, which prepared her significantly better than her before her DNF (Did Not Finish) at the Victoria Marathon.
The Race Day Experience
Race day is an adrenaline-fueled showdown between anxiety and excitement, and liasadako’s day was no different. Waking up at 3:10 A.M. to the sound of an alarm prompt might sound torturous to many, but for her, it was part of the ritual. She describes the pre-race meals with vivid detail—a protein-packed breakfast set the tone for the long day ahead. As she boarded the bus that would take her to the starting line in the early hours of the morning, there was little doubt in her mind that she was about to embark on an unforgettable journey. However, feeling the drizzle upon arrival didn’t set the best scene. She observed that many runners resorted to makeshift rain gear like garbage bags while waiting to start—a bit of practical advice that went largely unheeded by her. “It turns out that was the way to go,” she gleefully noted as she navigated the rain-soaked start. Despite weather challenges, intense pressure, and the daunting scenery of Monterey, she maintained her spirits, determined to finish her first full marathon.
Trails of Emotion and Community
As the race commenced, the physical impact of the hills on the Big Sur course was palpable. It’s a rollercoaster not just physically but mentally, as reminded by a comment from the community, “This race is hard and beautiful.” Liasadako went through all the peaks and valleys of a running journey—the highs of navigating the early downhill stretches and the struggle of Hurricane Hill. The camaraderie among runners became apparent when she joined forces with the 5:50 pace group to share the mental and physical burden of the challenging course. “When the pacer walked, I walked; when he jogged, I jogged,” she wrote, encapsulating how racing can be a team effort even while being an individual sport. Many commenters empathized, sharing their experiences while running Big Sur, pointing out the stunning coastal views and unique challenges that made the marathon unforgettable. The triumph of completing not just the race but the marathon experience hints at deeper connections being made within the running community.
Post-Race Reflections
With the finish line finally crossed, the euphoria of achievement washed over liasadako. What do you do after running 26.2 miles in the rain? She indulged in the post-marathon feast of cookies, cheeseburgers, and hot chocolate—a well-deserved reward! As she reflects on the journey that led her to that moment, it’s apparent she will carry not just a medal but lifelong memories from her experience. Many commenters chimed in with congratulations and affirmations, echoing similar sentiments about the joy of completing one of the most scenic marathons in the world. And while she has her sights on shorter races for the near future, liasadako’s pride in completing her first marathon is unmistakable; the Big Sur International Marathon has undoubtedly carved a special place in her heart, forever etched into her marathon history.
As liasadako wraps up her report with humor and positivity, it’s clear that the camaraderie of fellow runners, the breathtaking views, and a good dose of perseverance can turn the marathon journey into a cherished memory. It’s a reminder that while the roads may be hard, and the conditions challenging, the community surrounding running is a remarkable force that uplifts and supports those willing to take the plunge into the unknown. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a curious newbie, there’s always a place at the starting line—and possibly a croissant waiting at the finish line, too.