Missing Boston by 11 seconds

I had a goal in mind when I began training for the San Diego Marathon that took place in June 2. While I ran a solid time and improved my previous 26.2-mile performance by 10 minutes, there was something more that I wanted.

For my current age (and all ages have specific requirements) it is required that I run a 3:35 or faster for the marathon distance in order to qualify for the 2014 Boston Marathon. I did accomplish this. I ran a 3:33:33 in San Diego on June 2, 2013, and so it would appear that I “qualified” for the big race. Good deal!

Because I ran a Boston Qualifying (BQ) time, I decided to give it a shot and register for the 2014 race. Also, I do realize that the upcoming race has much controversy and maybe even fear surrounding it; however, as a long-time runner ― nothing will scare me (not even a cowardly duo equipped with explosives) from the tradition and spirit of the marathon.

That aside, I entered my information and BQ into the system in mid-September only to find out this in the official email at the end of the month:

Thank you for submitting your application for entry into the 2014 Boston Marathon. Regrettably, we are unable to accept your application due to field size limitations and the large number of applications we received from Qualified runners. Entries from applicants in your age group were accepted through and including the time 3:33:22.

Yes, it’s true, I missed the cut-off by 11 seconds! It is painful knowing that at the halfway point of the SD Marathon I was on pace to run a 3:28 and change, but as the race went on ― the hills came, and came…and came! I fell off pace and ran a 3:33:33 instead.

I know I ran my marathon with heart and earned a solid PR and a time I am proud of, but I can't help but feel a slight feeling of disappointment. Being a runner is tough. You're up against you and only you. And when you let yourself down, there is no one else to blame.

I am on to the next marathon, which is the Philadelphia Marathon on Nov. 17. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Philly Marathon. I am thrilled to be a part of this and to be running on a Teal Mission again to support Hope for Heather Ovarian Cancer Awareness of CNY.

So, on April 14, 2014, I will not be running in the 118th Boston Marathon. However, I will be running and I will be running with heart.

Until my next post, be beautiful and genuine ― in other words, be you!