Half in two days, I'm terrified!

[jkmmah]

Please tell me that what I'm feeling is normal and I'm not some kind of freak. I could use a lot of reassurance right now.

This will be my first race, ever. I know I should've done a smaller one at some point in my training before this but injuries and timing didn't allow it to work out the way it should have. So here I am, two days from a half marathon, and I'm scared.

I've done my training, with my longest run being 10 miles, albeit slow miles. I'm thinking part of my half will be walked but my ultimate goal would be to jog the whole of it.

Dh and I went to the expo today with our kids in tow. The sheer number of people there combined with the reality setting in on me, it all left me in tears. I couldn't get out of there fast enough. Poor dh, he wanted to stay and I was falling to bits. I'm feeling overwhelmed and in over my head, and doubting my ability and sanity. I'm thinking I'm crazy for even doing this and wondering what I was ever thinking by registering.

Please, tell me I'm not alone....

 

[amykab]

Definitely not alone. I've done a handful of shorter races this past year and a 1/2 in Nov. and I woke up with the worst nervous stomach ever. It will all go fine. Just put faith in all the miles you've put in. Look for the green WISH running shirts!

 

[deekaypee]

You're definitely not alone. Last year was my first race, so I know exactly how you feel. It's a very emotional time, what with taper and nervous excitement setting in. Plus, I just got back from the expo and it was overwhelming!

Remember, it's normal to feel this way. But you've done the training, you have reasonable goals, you'll have the adrenalin of race day, and you'll have tons of spectators on the course to cheer you on. And, of course, you have us, and we'll be together.

One last thought: you have to have a first race sometime, right? And what better place than Disney?

 

[drdelsol]

You are not alone. Just relax, have fun. you will finish/B]

It's like getting a shot, the anticipation is worse then the reality.

Plus, even if you take it easy during the run, if you hold your medal up next to one of the elites medals, they look the same.

If it makes you feel better I didn't do more a 10 mile run before my first marathon.(yes I know, but it's a long boring post motorcycle accident story) and got the medal. Although I think I remember being passed by someone using a walker.

 

[1/2Marathonpixie]

This is my 9th half and I experienced all the same emotions you described. I even started to cry reading your post. I am an older racer, very slow, and I am terrified as well.

I'll be looking for those WISH shirts and counting on those friendly faces to give me the boost I need.

Good luck to everyone racing this weekend. We CAN do this!!!!!!

 

[monte]

My very first walk was WDW half as well and I was petrified! I didn't start marathoning til my mid 40's and I was positive I wouldn't make the required time limit and be swept. I was so nervous! You know what? I made it, received my Donald medal and have been hooked ever since. Disney is one of the best walks I've ever experienced, there is so much support from not only our group, but spectators as well. I still get nervous before marathons, I still ask myself, "what the heck are you doing"? and vow that I'll never do another marathon, but I still sign up for the next one. lol.

You're going to be fine. Don't get so freaked out, just enjoy the moment and take it one mile at a time. Hey, you're at Walt Disney World, how bad can it be?

Have a ball and remember you're doing something healthy for yourself and making great memories. We're there with you.