8 Comments
User's avatar
SHW's avatar

Dear Pen Pal,

Race week! I'm excited for you and your relay team!

Re: Contradiction. I was glad to read you write "I’m ready to run hard", "I’m going to give it my all on Sunday so that the break feels that much sweeter", and (in closing) "I am excited to make the most of it". I think your words help resolve, or at least frame, the seeming contradiction. The reason we can race a half marathon at half-marathon race pace is because we know that after the finish line is a break---as opposed to, say, an immediate additional half marathon. Being excited and going all-in and all-out are possible because we know the excitement and effortful demands are only for a time. To every thing there is a season...

Also, I agree with you: I prefer "teammate-for-life" :)

Re: Becky. I did not know that Becky's debut was at CIM. What a debut! What an athlete! What a person! I love how you feature your teammates-for-life from time to time in these posts when there's a connection. I think your acquaintances and friendships from college sports are so cool!

Re: Relay unknowns. If you wish, let us know the answers to your questions. (Which is to say, now I'm curious, too!)

Re: Marathon lotteries. Good luck!

Re: Publishing latitude. Speaking for myself: Of course! I look forward to your next update, whenever it may be.

I hope you soak up the focus, keep chill, and have a fast, flow-filled, and fun experience with your teammate-for-life!

Expand full comment
Claire Shorall's avatar

I’ll write more soon, but we have an answer to the relay handoff item... 🥁🥁🥁 an ankle bracelet 😩⁉️

Expand full comment
SHW's avatar

My seven-year-old self is envious. And hopes it came in cool colors.

Expand full comment
chefgabular's avatar

It's awesome to see your training uphill and downward running. Imagine if runners had to run backwards. Ha, I kid. I see that you got three days to rest. Makes me happy. You're on my prayer list upcoming and through the year! I love reading these posts! If only I could feed you delicious meals!! Ha! 😋

Expand full comment
Fredrica Challandes-Angelini's avatar

Wish we could be there to cheer you on. Will there be live stream cameras along the way?🥳

Expand full comment
Claire Shorall's avatar

I don’t think there will be course cameras, but if I hear differently you’ll be the first to know.

Expand full comment
Mary Hillabrand's avatar

I hope you get into Chicago!!! I’m running it and it would be fun meet up again. I’m also in the lottery for Berlin! 😁

Expand full comment
Claire Shorall's avatar

I'm rooting hard for a Claire x Mary 2.0 marathon. I have a slight preference for it to be in Chicago...

Expand full comment