Monday, December 10, 2018

Why I Registered for the Boston Marathon... Again



What: The 123rd Boston Marathon

Where: Boston, MA

When: April 15, 2019


I know I said over and over that I would never run another marathon.

This time it’s different. 

A year ago I registered for the Boston Marathon out of peer pressure.

This year I registered without anyone in my head but my own.  I was excited.  I couldn’t wait to hit submit on my application.

It’s funny.  I had such a horrible run last year.  I wanted so bad to love Boston.  I worked so hard to get there and I was selfish and angry that my race experience was not in the least bit enjoyable.  None of that was my fault.  I was totally prepared.  I was ready to PR.  I couldn’t have done anything more on my end.  

Mother Nature ruined it.  She also ruined my love of running for about 4 solid months.


In case you missed it, you can read my full race report here: http://www.jenrunsfastblog.com/2018/04/race-report-boston-marathon.html

One of the first phone calls I received after I crossed the finish line last year was my friend Matt.  I’ve known Matt since I was in high school and ended up working for him for many years at the Falmouth Road Race.  The first words out of his mouth were “I’m so sorry” and “You know that you are at the top of the list for my waiver next year.”  

Matt works for Dave McGillvray, race director of the Boston Marathon.  Every year he gets an invitational entry to give out.  He’s asked before but I never felt that I earned it.  At first I thought he was crazy but a few hours later my mind changed to *I WANT IT* and I wanted it bad.

I have unfinished business.  Training officially begins Monday December 24th—two weeks from today.


Here’s to a second attempt at a crop top, long purple ponytail, big crowds, dominating Heartbreak Hill, the sun and happy race day memories.

Boston, you have one more chance.

Mother Nature, don’t be a bitch.