Some races go perfectly, and others remind you that running can be unpredictable. This weekend’s half marathon was one of those humbling experiences. The first four miles felt incredible. My pace was right on target, my legs felt light, and the energy around me was contagious. It was one of those mornings where everything seemed to click. I could see the personal record coming.
Then I took my first gel.
Almost immediately, my stomach started to turn. I tried to keep my focus on my breathing, hoping it would pass, but by mile six and a half I had to stop. I regrouped, took a few deep breaths, and reminded myself that one bad moment didn’t have to define the race. After that, things started to feel a little better, and I found a rhythm again. For a while, it felt like I might have turned the corner.
Then came the second gel. That one sealed my fate. My stomach revolted again, and from there, it became about survival. I told myself to stay steady, keep moving forward, and get to the next mile marker. I stopped again shortly after mile ten, knowing at that point there was no way to make up the lost time. My goal slipped away, but I wasn’t ready to give up. I focused on finishing strong, no matter what the clock said.
When I finally crossed the finish line, I was about ten minutes slower than I had hoped. It wasn’t the race I planned, but it was still one I’m proud of. Every runner knows that some days test you more than others. This one reminded me that racing is as much about mental toughness as it is about fitness.
Even with all the stomach drama, I managed to keep a steady pace and take away a few lessons. Fueling, it turns out, isn’t always predictable. I didn’t use a new brand, but maybe it was the wrong flavor or I just hadn’t practiced with it enough. Whatever the reason, my stomach had other plans that day. Another, surprisingly, is that sometimes taking a risk pays off. I wore brand new shoes straight out of the box for this race. Normally that’s a huge no, but my Saucony Endorphin Speed 5s were flawless. My feet felt amazing the entire time, no hot spots, no discomfort, just smooth and responsive support.
Every race teaches something. This one taught me to listen to my body, be flexible, and to celebrate progress even when the plan falls apart. I may not have earned a PR, but I walked away stronger and smarter for the next one.
