On the Run with Sam: The Big One (There's Always Another Race)

The Big One (There’s Always Another Race)

I recently ran in my first marathon. Notice that I didn’t say “finished.” I had some spotty training due to a small, nagging injury, but I felt like I could run it just to have fun. I started the race with a friend from college and we were running happy. We were laughing, telling stories, even dancing a little bit. I felt good. And then in an instant at mile 9 my nagging injury became a major problem. I stopped, hoping that a better lace job would do the trick; but I knew what was wrong and there was only one way to fix it: Drop. My friend wanted to stay with me, but I told her to go on and have her own race. I soon became a bit overwhelmed and knew I couldn’t finish, even if I took it very, very slowly. I ran to mile 13.75 where I found my mom who bussed me back to my car in Albany from Cohoes. When I ran my first half 7 years ago, I could barely move afterwards. My mom had to take my socks off because I couldn’t bend down (I was 16 years old and not much of a stretcher -- still need to work on that [Editor's note: Fleet Feet Albany & Malta has Yoga starting on November 13!]). This time, I wasn’t exhausted and felt good (other than my tendinitis). I stayed and cheered some friends on. Shoutout to Noreen (Fellow staff member at Fleet Feet Albany!) for snagging second place. You’re a queen. While I was disappointed, I didn’t sulk. I knew that it just wasn’t my day. My friend got to finish her first marathon and I was SO happy for her. There’s always next time for me.

I know there are other races to look forward to. With thanksgiving coming up there are tons of trots I could hop in and several other local races before then. While I have been scarcely running and trying to recover, I know that are so many more races -- ones that could end up being my favorite. It didn’t need to be this one.

If you’ve ever had a failed race attempt, no matter the distance, just remember there’s always another opportunity. Maybe it’s something different, maybe it’s not a running race at all. Just keep looking forward and know you gave it your all. 

Have a great month and enjoy the holidays!

Samantha Simmons