It’s a race week like no other. Unlike the Richmond Marathon two months ago when I felt fully prepared (but had a miserable experience), I am running the Disney Marathon this weekend mostly unprepared.
It’s not like I was going to be “ready” for it — I was simply running to keep a good base going. When I got sick a few weeks ago, though, those plans went away.
My thoughts about Disney since I made the commitment to Comfort Zone Camp have been, quite simply, to have fun and finish. After watching the course video today, I have to say that I’m finally excited about what’s ahead. And that “have fun” goal certainly will be reached.
I’ve been so disconnected with running in the past month that I’ve decided for this weekend that I’m going to do the marathon without a watch. With not having major time goals for this race, I can’t come up with a good reason to actually wear one.
If I get excited at the beginning and bust out some fast miles, what good would it do me to know that?
If I want to stop and take a photo with Mickey, what’s a slower mile going to do to me?
If I get halfway through and feel good, or get to mile 20 and have a lot left in the tank, I’m going to know what my time is by a clock. I don’t need a watch with me to worry about whether I’m going to hit a certain time or fall way short should I decide to go all out.
By leaving the watch behind, it’s also one less thing I have to worry about packing. No watch, no charger. Just one set of running clothes and shoes. It will also allow me to quickly cross off one of my 13 goals for the year.
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
This is definitely the right approach for a runDisney race, especially your first, and ESPECIALLY the marathon! It is going to be a blast
Wow, epic approach! I would have loved to do this race, but I’m not up at marathon standard.. Yet! I wish you the best of diligence with the race, have an AWESOME time!
Have a great time !!
From everything I’ve heard about a RunDisney race, your approach sounds like the way to go! Hope you have a blast!
Sounds like a great idea! Have fun, I hear Disney races are THE best….enjoy!
Awesome! Glad you decided to leave it home! Have fun, good luck!
Travelling, enjoying the atmosphere, making great memories and just going the distance…these are all we need to keep us going. I like a nice PR as much as the next guy, but the longer we do these types of events the more unrealistic it is to treat every race like a massive test of endurance and mental fortitude. Going the distance and having fun are great goals. Have some fun for me too!
have fun this weekend! Sounds like you have a great plan and will so enjoy your weekend with Mickey! Can’t wait for the post
Yes! Have FUN! And that is such a cute medal!!
Nice approach. good luck and have fun!