Is it a mental thing or a competitive thing? hmmmm

I participated in the fun run with the rest of the 916. I started at the Black gate surrounding Maintenance, ran the entire way to the race, ran the course of the race and back. I thought I did pretty well. The race had already started by the time we got there yet I was still able to finish before some who started on time. However, when I went out to run that same course 2 days later, I could barely get the first mile in before stopping. Was it because no one was there to watch and/or compete against? Or did I retreat back into my thoughts of painful injuries from running outside.

I enjoyed the fun run so much that I forgot how much it bothers my hip and knee to run outside. The camaraderie promoted by the fun run, as well as the 'light' competitive edge just makes you want to go out there and do your best.

Upon completing the run, I felt like I could have run another couple of miles before quitting. Yet, 2 days later, I could barely get a mile in before I had to stop! Why was that? Was it because no one was there to compete against or was it because I realized I was running outside and putting undo pressure on my knee and hip?

I don't know the answer, but I do know it bothered me a great deal running that course 3 times without success (completing it without stopping). I was determined I was not going to let this beat me!!

I finally succeeded on the fourth try. I ran that course and then some!! Then turned around and ran the course again a second time. In my mind I could hear Kevin Davis in OSS saying "I just can't stop!" I said it over and over again in my mind.... and didn't stop until I couldn't lift my legs anymore. Though it was only approx. 5.25 miles that I had run, it was a big accomplishment for me since I had failed 3 previous times. Ah, the joy of victory. I ran that course a couple of times since, again with success so maybe it was a mental thing.

Thanks to the fun run, I was able to rebuild my confidence of running outside and not letting my 'injuries' get in the way. I continue to run the course, a little further each time, building strength and endurance. I'll be ready for the next run... I'll be better and enjoy it all the more. Mental or competitive? Who cares as long as I don't let either stop me!!