Why Run the Boston Marathon?

There are only 2 marathons in the United States that need qualifying times, the Olympic Qualifiers and the Boston Marathon. After learning this fact my competitive instincts took over I've had the desire to make it to Boston. It was never because Boston is the most scenic or best marathon to run (although I have heard its pretty incredible), but because not a lot of people make it there. My age group requires me to run under 3 hours and 10 minutes. If I do run it in under 3:10 I don't even know that I'll necessarily go to Boston and do it. I just want to know that I'm good enough to do it. That I can set goals and reach them, that I can do what not a lot have done, but what most serious marathon runners dream of.

After running 4 marathons, I think I know what it will take to run a Boston qualifier. My previous races were never an attempt to qualify but more for the enjoyment of the sport and to try for new PRs. This fall is going to be different.

Setting Goals

This fall I will run my 5th marathon. I followed a training schedule for the first 4 but I never set any goals for them other than to finish and beat my previous time. I'm hoping that sitting down 5-6 months before the race to decide exactly what I want will help me get through this. My fastest marathon time is 3:39:34. I want to prove that a little dedication and determination can help an average runner such as myself cut 40 minutes from their marathon time to reach Boston.

My goals for this fall's marathon are as follows:
1. Qualify for the Boston Marathon by running 3:10 or faster (current PR 3:39)
2. Run the marathon under 3 hours

Other PR goals:
3. Drop my body weight to 145lbs (current weight 157lbs)
4. 5K: 17 mins (current PR 18:09)
5. 10K: 38 mins (current PR 46:35)
6. Half Marathon: 1 hour 26 mins (current PR 1:42)