The 46th annual Lincoln Marathon was this morning. It was just a tad strange being 600 miles from Memorial Stadium. Stranger still that I felt such an etheral presence.
My journey to the start line began 14 weeks ago when Stacy Stodden committed to my ministrations. No easy task. Her lofty goal of breaking the 55-59 age group record impetus enough for her to ask and me to agree. I promised to work her very hard. Aside: Stacy ran for me on Team Nebraska Brooks and Nebraska Run Guru Elite prior to her Lincoln Running Co. membership. I’ve coached her for over a dozen years from USA Masters T&F National Champs to the marathon and most in between.
I love to coach. It has become my very favorite part of our sport. I am demanding however. When we start my athletes report in every day. Period. As we work into the cycle that interval is stretched to weekly. Not as good as in person but as close as possible.
500 Miles in 14 weeks. 85 miles of that between 6:45-7:15 pace. At 55 years old. First hot and humid day in Nebraska this morning. The marathon (&half) is a cruel and uncaring mistress. She missed the record but gave it her very best effort. Took the age group in 1:39:54. Earned the Road Runners Club of America Grand Masters Title.
It was fun reading the results list. A lot of former mates and people I’ve coached peppering the top places. I’m proud of them all.
Lincoln is a tough race. I can attest as a competitor.
Quiet contemplation prior to the cannon. The Lincoln Marathon became a major sponsor of Team Nebraska Brooks from 2005-2012. Their support of TNB was instrumental in our success.
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