Friday, July 3, 2015


Will my dream of breaking 1:20 Half Marathon come true this fall?

I have been encountering cycle of injuries in the first half of 2015. It was a rough start, especially starting back from square one since achieving my ultimate dream of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. My biggest weakness was having no patience. I was eager to race as much as I can, so I can be one step closer to my goal times I had set out for 2015. Big mistake! The more I race, the more slower I get. 

Thanks to my coach, Janice, for setting me back to the right path. I was on heart rate training, and was building my mileage slowly. It was not fun, as I cannot run as fast as I can. But, it allowed me to run SAFELY and smartly. I learn that to reach your peak in running, I cannot only count on hard work, I must train smart too. 

Although I am not fully back to "peak" shape, I am very grateful to run injury-free *touch-wood*. Ever since I am back to training, I would dream of crossing the finish line of a half marathon race under 1:20. My best half marathon was in 2014 in Calgary (1:24:24). This means I have to cut 4 min:24 sec from my overall half marathon time, or consistently run 3:47 per km. I can barely hold 4:00 per km for more than 14 + kilometers. Can this dream be impossible?

Everyday, I would wake up and remind me of this dream, and that I have to make time each day to get my workout done. It is not a single workout that makes the difference. But, if we accumulate all the workout, then it will make a big difference in one's fitness. Always look at the bigger picture, and that each run must have a purpose. 

There are literally many things on my plates, including working long shifts and other commitments. At the end of the day, my legs would be very sore and tired, but if I can squeeze-in my workout or run safely, it gives me some confident in reaching my dream. I must remind myself to be cautious and listen to my body too. If my body is too fatigue, I must take some rest to be fully recovered from my previous run or workout. 

Time for me to #workhard #runsmart #havefaith I can reach my goal of #sub80orbust, like my team mate/friend, Greg 

Read his report here: http://community.runnersworld.com/printer-friendly-topic/first-half-half-marathon-rr?topicOnly=true


100 DAYS TO RACE DAY!
With great friends and family supporting me, I hope to make this dream into a reality. New York Marathon Qualifer, here I come!