red deer marathon report part vii – my two biggest thrills
This is part seven
Part one is here
Part two is here
Part three is here
Part four is here
Part five is here
Part six is here
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Two powerful realizations came out of the Red Deer experience.
The first was the thrill of passing people throughout the race. It was absolutely intoxicating and empowering. I will never forget the feeling of reeling runners in – especially during the latter miles. Woohoo!
The second realization came to me the day after the race. It was the realization that I had actually raced that marathon. Raced it. In previous marathons, my focus was mostly on surviving the experience. In every marathon previous to Red Deer, I’d gone out less than confident in my ability to reach my goal – I never felt the confidence of knowing I could be strong throughout the race.
In contrast, Red Deer was all about executing a plan. A plan I was confident in. And a plan based on abilities I’d tested amply so that on race day, I was racing at the top end of my aerobic threshold.
Red Deer was transformational. And you still cannot wipe the smile from my silly face.
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Andrew & I were talking about how well your training had gone and how consistency is the key. Good luck with the next venture.
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Comment by 
Wednesday May 23, 2007 @
Mark
I really enjoyed reading every post about your marathon. That’s a great looking medal. Keep smiling, you did awesome!