Sunday, June 04, 2006

No Dice

It was a very bad day for Nic...
  • Clock Time - 4:03:43
  • Chip Time - 4:02:24
I am really, really bummed. I probably went out too fast although it felt so good at the time. And then I ran into some major stomach issues at Mile 15. Fucking Powerade! Upon relaying this news to my father, he immediately asked, "Don't you remember saying you would never drink Powerade again after the 2004 Philly Marathon?" Um, no, Dad. If I remembered I wouldn't have sucked so much ASS today. But thanks for the reminder. Parents really do know EVERYTHING!

I know 4:02:24 is a very respectable time. But it doesn't feel that way becuase I know I am capable of running a much better race. However I am finding a little solitude in my placements...
  • Overall Place - 2890 out of 21,159 registered runners and 15,771 finishers (Top 18% of finishers)
  • Gender Place - 825 out of 8,414 finishers (Top 10%)
  • 25-29 Age Group Place - 236 out of 2030 (Top 12%)
I've been reflecting all day, and I still need some time to gather my thoughts. But I wanted to post the bad news now. Thank you all so much for your supportive comments, calls, and text messages the past few days. I am so lucky to have such wonderful friends... Both of the real-life and virtual variety.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

25 comments:

jeanne said...

Wow, it sounds like all the RBFers had a tough time today! I know it seems bad now, but think of it, as our friend Bolder would say, as a deposit in the Marathon bank. and that IS a pretty respectable time. I really feel for you not meeting your goal, though. It sucks, but you'll do it next time for certain. :)

Anonymous said...

It sucks but don't give up. I am on attempt #10. I am now in a new age group so I am 5 minutes closer than I was before.

Dori said...

Sorry for your disappointment. You ran a respectable race, tho. I haven't run it, but I'm guessing San Diego is a tough race to qualify for Boston.

Lan said...

Sorry to hear about your race, Nic. Next marathon!

running42k said...

You will get them next time Nic. We learn from each outing.

If you don't mind a product placement comment, try Superbites. www.superbites dot com I think. I moved to them two years ago and they are great. Good burst of carbs, easy on the tummy and neater then either the gels or sport drinks.

Meredith said...

Heard it was pretty daggone hot! You'll get 'em next time.

Habeela said...

It's so frustrating when you miss your goal like that. But those results are still pretty impressive (top 10%!). Just think how much closer you are now than if you hadn't started to begin with.

Anne said...

It was so nice to meet you on Saturday, Nic. I'm really glad you could join us.

Listen, conditions and electrolyte replacement drinks were rough in this race. Before beating yourself up, consider this: You did the best of all the RBFers out there. Looking forward to the full report.

pookalu said...

i know you know can do better, but it's funny that you say that it was a bad time....i can't even run a quarter mile.

so i'm proud of you no matter what!

Unknown said...

like i said at the finish, these races are a learning experience and each one gives you the tools you need to get to your goal. pick up the lessons from this race and move forward with a purpose. oh, and don't forget, more t-rex for the win!

Brooke said...

Nic, I'm sorry. I know that was a goal that was important to you. Don't get discouraged, try again. You still had amazing results and ran a great race.

Anonymous said...

Dearest Nicole. I think you are incredible. Love Eleanor

walchka said...

I'll 2nd what Eleanor and everyone else has said so far. I know that you really wanted to qualify this weekend, but you still did run a great race. Your stats were amazing and I know that you will qualify at another race. It's only a matter of time. Take what you can away from this race and let it help drive you towards your next one. You'll get there. You will not be denied Boston!

R.E.M. Borja said...

This is just an attempt by the marathon gods to ensure that you keep running. You will get it next time. Chicago?

Congrats on completing yet another marathon and in an impressive time. I have to try and beat you now. =)

Anonymous said...

I certainly have an idea of how you feel and look forward to reading more about how things went. Get some rest and congratulations nonetheless.

Michele said...

I know it is disappointing to not make your goal.
You still finished great and that in itself is a huge accomplishment.
You'll get it next time.

Anonymous said...

Nic,
It was great meeting you on Saturday. You are an awesome runner. You will get that BQ time soon.
See you out on the next marathon course:-)

Joe said...

I'm sorry you feel bummed. I know you were expecting so much more. On the other hand, you do make a great point that your time is excellent compared to the majority of the participants. So I say "Good on ya!"

BTW, did you see any marathoners dressed up like Elvis? I saw a cool picture today of some Elvises (Elvii?) that were in that marathon.

brent said...

wow top 10% and 12% is pretty crazy. i know it wasn't the race you were aiming for but that's quite an elite group and pretty crazy good.

Neese said...

sweet Nic, congratulations on completeing the marathon! i'm sorry it wasn't the time you were shooting, you will get there you will! i don't even know you yet i agree with Eleanor!

xo!

Anonymous said...

Sorry for the disappointment, but your dad defintely has some great advice.

21st Century Mom said...

Sounds like this race could be described as "win some lose some" that is - both. It isn't what you wanted but you still finished well in spite of getting ill off of Powerade. Good going!

Rich said...

OK, you've already heard the experience counts message, and that you'll make it the next time. They're both right.

But I like your attitude the most, and I think it'll carry you far and fast. You're tough on yourself, and you're p*ssed off to hell, and I don't think you're going to let yourself go easy on the next race! Go out and get it done!

a.maria said...

yo. rnr san diego can kiss my big bootie!

and french fries are awesome. (hence the big bootie!!)

so take that! it was ridiculous amounts of fun hanging out this weekend... i think i've just about convinced ani and rick to do bay to breakers next year...

so... i'll see you then?!?! ;)

April Anne said...

I'm sorry it was a difficult race for you, but you finished and that is a huge accomplishment! It was nice to meet you. I'm sorry we weren't able to chat more.