I have had many questions about running blind, qualifying for Boston, running a marathon, etc so I thought I would try to answer some of the questions. If you read this and have any others, please feel free to leave a comment - would love to answer.
How do you qualify for the Boston Marathon?
A runner who is blind qualifies with a time of 5:00 or under. My time at the NYC Marathon was 4:49:21 which qualified me to run the Boston Marathon.
How do you run as a blind runner?
I run with a tether that I hold on to and the other end is around my friend's arm just above their elbow. This tether was made by one of my friends: Shannon (if you want to purchase one, let me know.)
How do you train for a marathon? We follow generally a 16-week training plan that each week increases our long run. This next week we will be up to 13 miles as our long run and about 35 total miles for the week. There is much time and commitment that is involved in preparing for a marathon.
Does my guide dog run with me? Goergie does not guide while I am running. She stays home and generally we go for a nice walk afterwards. She is a great fan. I will complete my third marathon while we have been a team so she is very used to the morning routine.
I am grateful for a healthy body and incredible family and friends that are making this dream possible. My new definition of a big goal someone is working towards with grit and tencity and excitement is "their Boston". What is your Boston?
2 comments:
Hi Becky. It was nice to hear from you on my blog. I don't post as much any more either. Glad you're still running. Georgie and Cricket seem wonderful. Good luck on the marathon!
Congrats on qualifying for Boston! And best of luck with the training program, and the race.
For me? My Boston is century rides. I had brain surgery for a chiari malformation 5 years ago; before surgery I could barely even play with my daughter in the yard. Last year I cycled 2000+ miles and rode the heART of Idaho and Moab centuries ride. It's amazing to do things I never thought possible.
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