It seems the wheels have come off my training the past 2 weeks or so. My long run was 3 weeks ago due to scheduling and some injuries that popped up after my soccer debut.  Note to self:  should not start a new sport during the crucial last few weeks of a training program.   So here I am with a few days until race day and I need to re-evaluate my goals.   Luckily, I always set  3 Race Day Goals so I can avoid a race day disaster!

• Ideal Race Day Goal
• Happy Race Day Goal
• I Can Live With It (Just Barely)Race Day Goal

Ideal Race Day Goal

The planets align to give you the perfect condition for your desired outcome.  Cool temps, no rain, you are well-rested, have eaten properly and are hydrated.  Your training has been sublime, your running  is smooth, there’s no unexpected potty stops and you are in the groove.  You reach your PR.

Happy Race Day Goal

You are running a good race but cannot keep up the race pace you planned.  To avoid crashing and burning by mile 8 you adjust your pace to one you can maintain so you finish the race strong and are happy with the outcome.  It’s not as fast as you had hoped but you are pleased with your time.

I Can Live With It (Just Barely) Race Day Goal

Let’s face it, you are not prepared for this race.  Your goal at this point is to try to run a  consistent race at a pace you can manage.  Since your goal time is a bust,  enjoy the race, take pride in your running and turn your initially perceived failure into a nice LDR with crowd support, free snacks and goodies at the end.

Remember, not all races will be a PR.  On the flip side, sometimes you feel unprepared for your race only to turn in a spectacular time.  Just remember to run your own race and do your best.  It’s all we can ask of anyone, especially ourselves!

Now go run!

Keli 🙂