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13.1 New York - April 3, 2010

Last September, after doing two half marathons (one in Nashville for my 40th birthday and one in Syracuse, NY) and walking half of one and all of the other, I decided to begin training to run an entire half marathon. I started in the middle of September using the Couch to 5K program since I've always been more of a kickboxer and strength-trainer rather than a runner. I finished the Couch to 5K program and ran my very first 5K, the Interlaken Steeple Chase in October.

I also began searching for half marathons and was thrilled to find that a favorite charity of mine, World Vision, was sponsoring the 13.1 New York race in April 2010. After some convincing of the hubby, who was determined to come watch wherever I chose but detests large cities (especially ones named "NYC") I registered for the inaugural event of 13.1 New York. Joining this race gives me an opportunity to raise support for World Vision and also is a chance to participate in the very first race that they hold in NYC. My particular race is giving assistance in Africa providing things like wells for clean water and food. If you want to support me in my race, simply click on the link above and you can make a donation right online. You can also follow my progress as I journal about my training each week.

Once I had completed my 5k training, I began to work up to 5 mile runs and officially started my half marathon training on Monday, January 10. It was exciting to complete my first long run (6 miles - the furthest I have ever run) wearing my super-cool, neon orange Team World Vision shirt. Lots of people reportedly spotted me running around town.

Especially in light of the tragic earthquake that occurred in Haiti this week, I am thrilled at the timeliness of my race and the huge presence that World Vision has in the assistance of disasters like this. If you have been thinking about ways that you can help, or organizations that you may want to support, visit World Vision and consider making a donation.

Comments

ajh said…
Thanks for commenting on my blog. We don't have a Target :( or that would so be one of my favorite places!
Nicki said…
Good for you, Jennifer! I am watching your training. Maybe we will run together some time.
newrunner said…
That's great!!!! I'm going to be running my longest of 5 miles this coming Sunday, I'm excited.
Molly said…
It sounds like you picked a great half marathon, that will be a perfect time of year to do it too! Good luck with your training, you look like you're already on a great training path.
Tricia said…
How exciting! I look forward to following your training.
Anonymous said…
During my occasional flirtations with running, I used and enjoyed the Couch to 5K program as well. I would love to get back into running and might just borrow a page from your playbook: finding a race associated with a meaningful cause to help keep me motivated. Good for you!

Thanks for stopping by my place to comment on Nicki's guest post. Hope to see you again!
Molly said…
Hey! you won my Sweet Riot Giveaway! email me your address so they can mail you your prize!

mesbaker@gmail.com
Thank you, that was just an awesome post!!!.....

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