2020. The year of the unexpected and so much more. It has been quite the year of twists and turns for me as well as I’m sure for all of you. But…we survived. And are surviving. This ‘RONA crazy. My year of running I have to say was absolutely nothing like I had expected. But I definitely made the best out of it as best as I could.
I was thankful to maintain my career job, but unfortunately my gym closed early in the pandemic. I am a firm believer in God closing that chapter though for me so he could open up another. And I love that someone believed in me and hired me at a more upscale gym where I received a pay raise. Still going through training for that gym but I’m getting paid for the training. And so happy to be announcing some new classes (and new Spotify playlists!) oh so soon for my fellow fitness instructors. So ready to be safely back in that saddle once again.
So let’s take some time to look back at some of the good moments. Just because we can. It is always good to look back and reflect. And then take those steps forward. That is what makes us resilient as athletes. Gotta love that.
Best race experience?
I was thankful to not run 1 BUT 2 in person races this year! Both of them were ultras. Running the Rose 54k as well as The Remix 50k. Both were Trail Racing Over Texas races. My favorite one out of them both was definitely The Remix. The way they executed this race during the pandemic was top notch. Plus this was my very first time to run a race in a mask. Quite interesting. I placed top ten among females so that was great too. I felt a tad undertrained for the feat but pushed through and got the damn thing done. Now that one is one of my most favorite medals.
Best run?
Probably my Saturday mornings with the run club doing some ‘socially distant’ running. And this view I always look forward to. It’s nice to venture out to a different location after running in your own ‘hood all week long. I always look forward to the Saturday long run.
Best new piece of running swag?
Not sure if this even counts as swag (HA) but my Houston Marathon mug from 2013. Actually I will say it counts as ‘swag’ because the coffee that I put in it fuels my running performance. RUNNER FUEL at its finest.
Best piece of running advice you’ve received?
This daily kick in the butt. A serious kind of fun is my absolute fave.
Most inspirational runner?
I’ve always been a Desi Linden fan and I just love how she made the best of things during the pandemic. You can read about her journey here (and hello – 496 miles in October! Freaking incredible.)
If you could sum up your year of running in a few words, what would they be?
Unexpected
Jesus Take the Wheel
Unconventional
Crazy
Reflective
Feel free to share some of your ups (and downs) this year. Merry Christmas and happy (and healthy) holidays to you all!
thedancingrunner 
Thank you for sharing this. I’m going to look into the Trail Racing Over Texas site. I plan on getting something in in 2021 and adding a little travel to a race is always good.
Perfect!! And you’re welcome! Texas would love to have you! 🙂
As a blogger it’s been a tough year.
I usually write about races I run and my training adventures.
My last in person race was on Super Bowl Sunday. I did run several virtual races but they’re not as exciting or fun. So I often felt less than inspired to write.
And who wants to read un-inspired writing?
I also found it challenging to write about my situation.
How can I write about things going great when so many are struggling.
How can I complain about anything, like a bad training run, when I have a job and the family is healthy.
I’m thankful that COVID hasn’t touched us yet but I feel 2020 was a lost year. For all of us.
I guess that makes me reflective.
I’m sure your sentiment as a blogger and runner is similar to a lot of folks out there. It has been a tough year indeed. But for sure it is how we handle adversity and challenges that truly matters. Wishing you some happier times and great miles in 2021!!
That’s great that you managed to run 2 Ultras. I took up running during lockdown in the UK and was entered into a 60km event in October. Annoyingly 4 days before the event the local council banned all outddoor sports. Oh well, I’ll just carry on training and hopefully something will happen for me in 2021.
Dang! I hear you, its so frustrating. My usual spring 50 miler was postponed twice then they decided to push it to 2021. We will see if it happens come May! Best of luck to you as well.