On January 3rd, I am going to run my first 50-mile race. I’m a little nervous, but it’s more excitement than anxiety. I’ve done the training, I’ve done the research on the race and the course, and I’ve planned my race strategy. However, I know that all the planning in the world can change on race day. It will be…what it will be.

I’m not really sure what to expect as I’ve never run this long at one time.  My longest run to date is 40.48 miles, but that was in 2004. My most recent long runs have been back-to-back 20-milers a few weeks ago (on a Saturday and a Sunday) and a 50K (31 miles) race in November.

Part of my philosophy is to “Look for and expect good things to happen.” And, that is what I expect for Saturday. I’ll be running around Lake Mead in Nevada, and the scenery is reported to be spectacular. I can’t think of too many other things I would rather do than to spend the day running while taking in the beauty of nature.

50 miles may seem a little crazy to some people, but the idea of testing yourself is the same for everyone. It doesn’t matter whether you are running or walking  2 miles or 50 miles – the accomplishment is equally inspiring.

The distance will be a challenge, but I love challenges.  I will be testing my limits, but that is how we grow.

So, find a way to challenge yourself – to test your limits – to do something that previously you might not have thought possible. I know it will be worth the effort.