I ran so many races this year that it's been quite difficult narrowing down my plans for next year. I've gotten quite used to having a lofty goal like running 13 half marathons in 2013 that I'm finding it hard to just focus on one race to the next. I really want to pick a goal for next year. I know I've got another marathon in me but the question is which one and whether it will be more than one in 2014.
Over the past few weeks, I've been thinking about commiting to an ultra marathon. This is a HUGE momentous decision especially with only one full marathon under my belt. The one I've been looking at has some unique requirements and I'm going to have to sit down and really think about what that means for me.
If not the ultra marathon, I have a another goal in mind... Obtaining 'marathon maniac' status. As you may already know, I've had my half fanatic status for a while so the logical next step would be to go for the full enchilada so to speak...
There are guidelines that need to be met to obtain this status and the absolute minimum would be to complete 3 full marathons in 90 days. This would be doable for me between May-June, beginning with the BMO Vancouver Marathon.
You might be wondering, couldn't I do both? Well yes, that is a possibility but I'm desperately trying not to completely overdo it and burnout, so picking one focused goal at a time for me is important.
Either way, it looks like I'll be running some big races in 2014.
Have you nailed down your 2014 race schedule yet?
Have you nailed down your 2014 race schedule yet?
I know what you mean about needing a big goal to stive for next year! I've got mine figured out, mostly because I had to commit to it over a year in advance. I'm trying to figure out what small races to add to the mix because I want for each race to have a purpose, not to race just because. Making progress next year is absolutely key for me so I don't want overdo it!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your dilema!
Thank Leana! Love reading about your goals :) Looking forward to next year!
DeleteStill thinking about my 2014 calendar, but I'm thinking next year I'm going to go for an Olympic distance Tri (I've done a few sprints and may be ready to step it up...maybe?!) and a hopefully a PR at my second marathon. I loved running Chicago and plan to run it again next year. Looking forward to hearing about your goals for 2014 once you nail them down!
ReplyDeleteThanks Amy! An Olympic distance Tri? That's amazing! I'm hoping I will PR at my 2nd marathon as well even if it's only by a few seconds ;)
DeleteI keep reading everyone's 2014 goals, and it makes me feel like such a procrastinator! I only have one race on my plate so far for the next year... hopefully soon I can get it together and make some plans!
ReplyDeleteI think it's good, maybe it means you're considering everything very carefully instead of making rash decisions? And 1 goal race is also important and easier to plan your training. Good luck!
DeleteSo far for next year I have 1 marathon and 1 half planned, and...a 100 mile ultra!! So I say go for it!! Which one are you thinking of doing? I'm doing the Indiana Trail 100, in April. I can't wait!!
ReplyDeleteA 100 mile ultra... whoa! You're amazing :)
DeleteI was considering the Run for Water Ultra Marathon in Abbotsford (near where I live), only 20 people do it and you get to run with Ray Zahab. You must fundraise at least $1500 to participate, I think I could do that but there's also a pacing requirement because everyone finishes at a team, that's what makes me very nervous. So I've decided to put it off for 2014 and opted for 3 fulls instead to get a little bit more comfortable, one of which will be Run for Water.
Looking forward to hearing about your Trail 100 :)