Shhhhh. Don’t tell anyone. Especially don’t tell my legs.
I’ve signed up for my first marathon, in fact one of the most famous marathons in the world – the New York City marathon in November.
I’m not sure I can even run around Beacon Hill Park, never mind Central Park, thanks to an inflamed IT band, but if you’re a runner, an injury is no reason to stop. I’ll just slow down. And if there’s one thing I’m good at – it’s going slow.
For some people, running a marathon is on their ‘bucket list’ – a must-do before they kick the bucket. Not me. I can think of much better ways to spend my time, like relaxing in the back yard with a gin and tonic.
So let’s just call this a cocktail-napkin commitment.
It was a year ago that a group of running buddies were gathered for a social evening, almost unrecognizable to each other, dressed in clothes other than runners, shorts and quick-dry T-shirts.
I swear that we were almost sober when some of us signed a pledge on a cocktail napkin to run a marathon in 2013.
As the chief instigator, my name is first on the list but I wouldn’t even be considering this if some of my favourite running comrades weren’t also game. I figure if they can do it, so can I.
Actually, I secretly started thinking of a marathon three years ago knowing that if I ever did want to do a marathon. Singular. One marathon. It would be New York.
Due to the race’s popularity, entry is by lottery (other than for people who commit to one of the charity-entrance programs or buy a pricey travel package.) Thousands of people apply. The odds of getting your name picked are slim.
But, under the old rules, if your name isn’t selected three years in a row, you get a guaranteed entry. So I planned ahead, and this is my year, whether my body agrees or not.
When the race was first held in 1970, 129 people entered and 55 finished. The cost was $1. The race's popularity grew.
This year, 48,000 people are registered (including 19,000 who got a carry-over from last year's cancelled race) and I shelled out $358.
After my entry was confirmed (in an anti-climatic email) I didn’t tell anyone, except a casual mention to my husband who simply raised one eyebrow.
I remain uncertain if this is my year to train and attempt the race. I know I have to be ready to sacrifice time from my family and to commit to the stretching, nutrition and strength training that are just as important as the miles on the road, hill drills and speedwork. Fatigue is common.
Truthfully, I don’t have the time or travel budget to get to New York for the several days it would require to enjoy it.
So, this will remain our little secret. I might be sending a postcard from New York. Or not.
