Well, friends, I’m starting to accept the fact that I may be in for a rainy marathon experience. The forecast continues to call for thunderstorms on Saturday, and a 70% chance of rain on Sunday. Here are my race day plans… or, more accurately, my race day indecisiveness:
Gear: It’s certainly better than the hot and humid races for my ten miler and half marathon this fall, but I am not a fan of the rain or wind. I’m debating between capris and shorts, with a tank top and a long-sleeved top. Nothing fancy, I’m going for comfort. Any tips for staying as dry and comfortable as possible?
Water: I may or may not wear a fuel belt for water. I know it won’t get me too far, and I don’t like feeling weighted down by the belt. But I am concerned about getting enough water from fuel stations alone. Maybe my husband could hand me a disposable bottle at the half way point? Thoughts?
Fuel: For my long runs, I’ve been using Honey Stinger chews, taking 2-3 every 3-4 miles and that was fine. I cannot stomach gels, so that’s not an option. For my first marathon, I packed homemade date-nut balls and it worked surprisingly well. I’ll take a few of those along as well. A few HS chews does not equal a 100 calorie gel.
Pace: This is a tough one. Mcmillan estimates a 3:30 based on my half marathon time. I think that pace is possible when I read back over my training log, but holding an 8:00 mile for 26.2 miles scares me.
I’ve mentioned before that I consistently run faster short distant races than the calculators predict, which also means that I run slower than the predicted pace for longer distances.
I have no problem being uncomfortable for 3.1 miles, but I would rather not be uncomfortable for 26.2. So the pace might not be realistic for me.
Here are my goals:
A Goal: 3:30
B Goal: 3:35
C Goal: sub 3:44
The A goal, of course, is what McMillan likes to think I can run. I want to believe him, but I also don’t want to crash and burn at the end. My B Goal would get me a Boston Qualifying time- that would be nice! And my C Goal is to beat my first marathon’s time of 3:44:xx almost two years ago. If all else fails, I’d really like to at least walk away with a pr!
Strategy: I’m planning to keep the first 2-3 miles around an 8:15 pace, and then settle into something as close to 8 minute miles as possible and hopefully stay consistent to the end.
My splits will be posting to Twitter in real time. I wasn’t intending to set that up, but it was one of the options while I was adding some phone numbers for text tracking, and I figured why not. If it’s a flop, you’re all going to hear about it anyway. 
Okay, that’s it! Thanks for listening to all the marathon talk the last few months and for supporting me in this goal… the end is in sight at last.
I’m linking up with Jill for Fitness Friday. And please chip in with your hydration, fueling, rainy day gear or pacing advice!
that’s so neat about twitter!! how cool is that! good luck, I’m sorry about the weather forecast, I hope it turns out to go in your favor. I think I would go with the capris to stay dry? Tough call bc it will probably be warm/humid with the rain too. Well I’m sure you will make the best of it. Good luck!!!
Natalie recently posted..Coffee – yay or nay? & Gluten free brownies
I think you are being SO smart with your goals. Too often I feel like we all put too much confidence in what calculators predict for us . You know your body – and the fact that you run faster short then long. I’d say start slow – and stay around the pace for a 3:35. If you feel great at the halfway point , pick up the pace an keep dropping it to the end. That way the last 10 miles are your fastest!!!! You are going to do so awesome!! So excited to track you!! Good luck friend!! Xoxo
Michele @ NYC Running Mama recently posted..Hills Are My Friend
Thanks for the encouragement and advice, Michele! I’m nervous, but ready to do this!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Oh bummer on the rain! My only piece of advice – don’t wear white!
. Good luck friend! Trust and believe in yourself! You’ve got this!!!
Angela @ Happy Fit Mama recently posted..CrossFit WOD for Home
Hope you’re getting excited. I think I’d wear capris if it was going to rain for fear of any chaffing from shorts. I’ve only had to worry about fueling and water for a half so I’m not the go-to for this one! Wishing you so much luck!!
Heather (Where’s the Beach) recently posted..Thursday Thoughts – Why Hate on Runners?
Good luck!
Kylie recently posted..5 Montessori Benefits of Play-Doh for Preschoolers
I vote for shorts over capris. If you are wet, you won’t want wet all the way down your legs.
I always use a fuel belt for water because I don’t trust water stations (will they be there? will they run out?) and I like to sip from my water bottle when I need to. Can’t help you on the fuel, but I know you are supposed to do what you’ve done in training!
Good luck and have fun!
Coco recently posted..Fun Fast Fitness Trampoline Workout With Interval Timer
Have a wonderful marathon! You are a strong runner and are prepared for this marathon! If you are at all used to wearing hats, I usually wear one in rainy weather to keep the rain out of my eyes. I wear contacts so if I’m messing with wiping my eyes a bunch it can be annoying! Good luck!
abbi recently posted..Medal Upgrade
Oh, great point about the hat! I never run with one, but I think this time I will dig one up… thanks, Abbi!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Sorry about the weather. I am not a fan of running in those conditions and I know I would not be happy if I had to do it for 26.2. Anyway, I would go with Capri’s. As for hydration, tough one. The fuel belt will weigh you down and the rain will make it worse, I am guessing. About 8 years ago, my friend was running the Niagara Falls marathon and her husband gave her water at various stops. She had her time down pretty perfect and we knew where to be and when. It worked out well for her.
I think you have some great goals and would be happy with any one of them. I wish you nothing but the best! I know you will have a great race and I look forward to reading about it.
Nicole@RunningWhileMommy recently posted..What’s In Your Gym Bag?
That’s what I’m leaning towards… I think I’m going to get really annoyed with the belt. And thanks, Nicole!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Good luck with your marathon! Great goals. I too tend to run a slower in the longer races and faster in the short races. Too bad I don’t live in Houston, we would be great training partners as my times are so close to yours!
Hope the rain holds off for you:( We have gotten so much rain in Baton Rouge, LA, it has been a miserable, rainy week!
stephanie recently posted..Stealing Time
I know! We would be perfect running buddies. Maybe we can meet up at a half way point race sometime…
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Looks like a fabulous plan of attack! You’re going to rock this! You’ll barely notice the rain once you get going. One year it was raining for the Chicago Marathon, I wore a garbage bag over myself up to the start line. Then, I shed it once we got going. It was misty and such for the run, but I was having too good of a time running to really care.
Michelle @ Eat Move Balance recently posted..Delicious! Mushroom and Barley Soup!
Oh, good…I hope that’s the case. I’ll definitely take a trash bag!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
You got this!!! I’m with Angela…don’t wear white
Kierston recently posted..#RECIPEFRIDAY {Low-Carb}: Chocolate Protein Fudge Berry Clusters!
Best wishes, Laura! It sounds like you are well prepared. My only “tip” would be to leave a pair of socks with your husband, if you plan to get a water bottle from him at the half-way point. I’m not sure how much rain they are calling for (and if you want to take the time to change into dry socks) but it is nice to know you will at least have the option if you need it.
Thank you so much, Andrea! And thanks for the tip- I hadn’t thought about wet socks at all. That’s a great idea!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I like to wear shorts when it’s raining unless it’s too cold. I remember how warm I was during the Houston marathon (in 2011?) because it was humid (and raining). I was glad that I wore shorts. Hope you have a great race!
Tina@GottaRunNow recently posted..Houston Marathon Tips
Good point! Yes, 50 degrees and humid, I think I might lean toward the shorts… tough call. And thank you!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Good luck this weekend!!! I can’t wait to hear how you do. You’re going to rock it!
Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table recently posted..Strange But Good Re-Imaginations
Good luck Laura! You are going to do great. My advice is to wear shorts, a tank and a long sleeve that you dont mind tossing. I would also wear the fuel belt, but maybe with only half as many bottles. It’s always nice to be able to drink when you want and to have the option of skipping the aid stations if you need to. As for your strategy, it sounds good, except I think that you can do the McMillan time! When I ran mine that I got about a 3:30, I started off at about a 7:55 and surprisingly held it the entire way. Don’t underestimate yourself! You’ve got this!
Travel Spot recently posted..2013 Race Calendar
Oh, I like that idea of possible tossing the long sleeved top… and thank you for the encouragement! I’m going to re-read my training log and give myself a pep talk tomorrow.
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I have worn a water belt for all 7 of my marathons. If I’m on a serious time goal I hand off refills somewhere and never use a water station. Even if I don’t I feel better having it. Keep in mind Chi 2007 was my first marathon and they ran out of water in 86 degree heat. I credit my finish to the fact that I carried my own.
McMillan says the same for me (I’m faster at shorter distances). I’ve always been on the conservtive side of his predictions.
Good luck! Stay dry! Have a great race!
Marcia recently posted..How Do You Choose a Race?
I ran an 11 mile training run in the rain and wore a water proof jacket from Nike. I loved it, it kept my top dry and the hood fasted around my neck. I think I would be miserable wet, might be worth a search today to find a water proof jacket. This one is the Cyclone Vapor jacket and it’s extremely lightweight, like a trash bag would be. Not sure if any stores near you would have it in stock. Have fun!
Sarah M recently posted..#30DayHomies Day 11
Thank you, Sarah! That’s a great idea… I might have to make a last minute stop tonight or tomorrow to look for one.
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I’ve lived in Houston my whole life and one thing I’ve learned is never trust the weather people. They may be predicting 70% chance and not a single drop will fall.
You might get lucky and just have a nice overcast day with no rain.
Good luck!! 
Rebecca recently posted..Hall of Fame Fail
Good point! Thanks for the reminder, Rebecca. I’ve been trying not to stress about it all week, knowing it could change. I want to be prepared for rain just in case, but it would be so nice if it holds off for those few hours!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I was just thinking of whipping up some similar date balls for my runs this weekend. I’m on a new gluten/sugar/dairy free eating plan, so the traditional gels won’t work for me. It’s nice to have a couple different fuel options on race day in case one isn’t working. Good luck at the marathon!
Yo Momma Runs recently posted..Clean eating and what not to do on a trail (the kid version)
I think your pace plan sounds perfect. I do think you can go 3:30 and the smart thing to do is start easy and feel your way through. It will still hurt at the end, but believe in yourself!
I think I told you that for CIM and the torrential rain, I was really happy with my choice of singlet and arm warmers (and shorts). Just aim for things that will not hold tons of water and get weighed down. Aren’t you glad we don’t live in the cotton era anymore? ; )
Good luck!!! You have got this.
misszippy recently posted..I run in Boulder
So true about the cotton! Thanks for the realistic words of encouragement. I needed to hear that! So much of it is a mental game, but I think you’re right that the pace is doable.
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
So excited for your marathon! Well, I would recommend not using the fuel belt. Usually marathons provide lots of water stops. Sometimes, I grab two cups through the aid stations in case. I’m sure you know but…I’d really just overhydrate with tons of extra water the two days prior. That really does the trick for me and I never have a problem with being thirsty. On the date balls…those would be too heavy for me but everyone is different. I like shot blocks a lot. Anyway, can’t wait to read your recap!
Ericka @ The Sweet Life recently posted..Best TV Shows Right Now
Thanks so much, Ericka! Yes- I’m thinking maybe one date ball toward the end (they are much smaller than they look!) and leaning away from the fuel belt, especially if it’s going to get wet and weigh me down. Thanks for the encouragement!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
ugh yuck – rainy races are no fun. As long as it’s not going to be cold, you should be okay in the rain. Do you have arm warmers? I hear those are good options because you can roll them down if you’re hot and roll them back up if you get cold. I’ve never used a fuel belt in a race before – but always in training. I just make sure to take a lot of water as I go (sometimes 2 cups) but I’ve never run a full marathon before, only a half. Best of luck Laura! I can’t wait to hear all about it!
Sarah @ Blonde Bostonian recently posted..Me? CrossFit?
I don’t have arm warmers, but someone else suggested making them out of Target knee high socks.. I might try that! Thanks for the encouragement, Sarah!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
living in WA, I have ran most of my halfs in the rain. Pick what is the most comfortable, and pack lots of dry clothing to change into afterwards. As for shorts vs capris – depends on how cool the rain is. I ran in september in a running skirt and was fine, but it wasn’t that cool out just wet. I doubt you will need the fuel belt, I drink less when its rainy, maybe someone to meet you along the way if you are worried. Good luck
I think you have thought this out well and done some awesome training, now it’s time to get your brain out of the way and let your body do the work
Good luck!!!
Amanda @RunToTheFinish recently posted..Snowshoeing in Snowbird
Bummer about the rain! You’ll still do wonderfully though, and I’m sure you’ll walk (limp?) away closer to 3:30 than 3:44! I think because it is rainy (and not super hot), you can skip the fuel belt and have your husband hand you water as a back-up plan if you’re not feeling hydrated enough. I can imagine the belt would get really annoying to wear by the end, and because of the weather/your estimated finish time, you shouldn’t have any problem with them running out of water. GOOD LUCK! I’ll be thinking of you on Sunday!
Amy recently posted..Mapping Out the 2013 Race Schedule
Thanks, Amy!! And yes, I’m thinking the same about the fuel belt- it annoys me even on training runs, so I’d rather not have to deal with it!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Ive heard of people putting plastic bags over their shoes to prevent them from getting wet (and your toes soggy leading to blisters). That may help and maybe wearing a breathable rain jacket like the ones Oiselle makes.
Lynda @ Hit The Road Jane recently posted..What I Learned from Ragnar Relay Key West
Bummer about the rain! It may be too last minute, but Brooks and Saucony make these awesome really light weight rain jacket/wind breakers that actually fold into themselves and they fold up small enough that you can stick it in your pocket or in a belt pouch! Being a runner in Seattle has forced me to get pretty crafty in terms of staying dry.
Also, along with honey stingers on long runs I pop chia seeds (I stick ‘em in an empty Nuun tube so I can just pour some into my mouth) and so far, they’ve been pretty awesome for fuel!
Rachel B @ Busy Mama Fitness recently posted..Body Beast Journal: I Suck
Great point about those wind breakers! I used to have one… but have no idea where it is. Maybe I’ll pick something up. Thanks!!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Good luck Laura!!!! I hope that the weather holds out for you on Sunday. I will be sending speedy vibes your way.
When I ran CIM I carried a hand held water bottle that I tossed around mile 16. It worked well for me and I was able to avoid the clutter of the first few aid stations. At Eugene the hubby meet me at certain check points with my Nuun. Since your hubby is probably familiar with the course you can have him meet in a couple of locations with your water.
Tasha @ Healthy Diva recently posted..Friday Favorites: Active Accessories
I like that idea better than having a belt on me the whole time… and thanks so much, Tasha!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I think you will rock a 3:30, rain or shine. You have raced in much worse conditions this year!
I am still undecided, leaning towards the skirt and a long sleeve. I am worry about getting warm after the first few miles. However, the armwarmer will likely be soaked if I go with tanks….that’s a toughy, isn’t it?
I do like the idea of the garbage bag ALOT
It is a toughy… I just saw the hour-by-hour and the rain is more like 30% chance during the marathon hours, there is hope!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
LOL @ the don’t wear white tip.
You’re so fast!! Good luck! I’m sure you’ll have a great race. I look forward to the recap.
I am gonig to be testing out some new fuel options this weekend on my long run. ShotBloks have been okay, but I hate the chewing. It takes me about half a mile to finally eat a whole one without choking on it.
beka @ rebecca roams recently posted..A Return to Friday Letters
I ran the half at Houston last year and it was quite humid. I would suggest the tank and shorts. Plus it’s going to feel lighter if it does rain. Good luck and have fun.
Thanks, Meredith! Yes- I was surprised to see 80% humidity predicted for race day. I think you’re right, less is better!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
so maybe i’m the opposite of everyone else, but i would think that wet shorts would increase risk of chafing or riding up? I guess it depends on the fit on the shorts. I always wear compression shorts + skirt so what do i know?
Lisa J recently posted..Three For Thursday
I’m still not sure what I’m going to do. I have some very lightweight nylon shorts that I wore for the Houston half when it was so humid that I was dripping wet by the end, and they worked out alright. Another 13 miles would have definitely led to some chafing… tough call!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I get cold very easily, but I was a bit overdressed for CIM (which was the downpour+ the wind). Looking at Houston temp, I think it’s predicted to be the same temperature so I agree with Amanda, shorts, tank and sleeves if you have them, perhaps a throwaway long sleeve shirt. If the rain is really bad think about wearing a garbage bag at the start while you wait. Also I think a hat saved me and my eyes in that race. Not sure if you are prone to blisters, I get very bad ones and the wetness will make it worse. My father in law sat in on a discussion before the race where a pro suggested a good lotion + udder balm rubbed all over your feet, if udder balm is not available use diaper rash creme, it worked miracles for me. Your goals sound right on, as others suggested start out slow, remember to dig as deep as you can when the miles start to get tough towards the end. Be mentally strong to stay on it. You have it in you, I have no doubt at all, bring it to this race and fight.
MegG recently posted..How to create a race schedule
Great point about the udder balm or diaper creme, I’m going to do that! And the hat, too. I’ve never run with one, but that would be really helpful. Thanks so much for the words of encouragement- I needed to hear that!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Not sure if anyone else said this already…but with rain, you must 100% wear a hat or a visor. Even if you don’t like them or normally wear them. Without the rain on your face, you will feel less like it is raining and it won’t be as miserable. My 2nd marathon was pouring rain for the first half. I had a visor and my running buddy did not. I was happy. She hated it! (Although she ended up running faster than me in the end
) Also, GOOD LUCK!! McMillan thinks I should be faster for my longer races too. I steadily get slower than his predicted paces from 10k on up! I KNOW you will have a good race and I can’t wait to read the tweets!!
Corey recently posted..Ragnar Florida Keys – Leg #2
Thank you so much, Corey!! Added hat or visor to my list of things to find in our house, or on a last minute Target trip!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Have a great race this weekend. For rainy races, I always choose compression shorts or capris over traditional running shorts. I feel like they sag too much.
Kimberly @ Healthy Strides recently posted..Got it
Good point… I hadn’t considered my compressions shorts… hmmm, thanks!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I hate wearing a fuel belt! My last marathon I had my parents at a certain spot to give me a bottle to carry. For the rain a hat is a must and have someone with dry socks on the course just in case you want to change. Grab a garbage bag to cover and stay dry at the start.
Good luck and be careful in the rain and stay dry.:)
Jen recently posted..Living Healthy and Saving Money
you’re going to do awesome! i can’t wait to read your recap — i predict you’ll surprise yourself, even if it rains!
Amanda K. recently posted..Let’s make this the best year ever.
I’m so excited for you!! Except for the rain part. I’m sorry but regardless, I think that you are going to do great. You have trained well for this race and are being really smart about your goals. Can’t wait to hear about it and to cheer you on!!
Christine @ Love, Life, Surf recently posted..Friday Round-Up: How did I get here?
good luck! wish i could come fuel you with healthy bites! but those dates balls look even better!
p.s.
bites are on their way
Yay yay yay! Excited for my healthy bites! And thank you, Lindsay.
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
What I wore at CIM worked really well for me in the rain: tank top, homemade arm warmers (from Target knee high socks), shorts, compression socks, and shoes with a mesh top and low amount of cushion (drains much faster). The key pieces were the arm warmers, running hat (to keep the rain out of my eyes), and the dollar store poncho that I wore for 20 miles. The poncho never got too heavy, nor did it drag due to wind. Don’t forget the Body Glide/vaseline on your feet, underarm, and on ALL of your seams – sports bra and capris if you wear them. Chafing is your #1 enemy!
As for water, I carried my Amphipod handheld bottle and was glad I did, especially since the first few stops were packed. It did get heavy after a while, so I handed it off to my boyfriend at mile 18 and used water stops after that. If it hadn’t gotten so heavy, I probably would’ve kept it because I slowed down A LOT through the water stops (and used them as an excuse to take a break).
Good luck!!!
Jen recently posted..A Second Opinion
Just added Target knee high socks to my list- going to pick some up tonight. I love that idea. Might look for a poncho, too. Thanks so much, Jen!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
omg – good luck!! so excited about the marathon! even in the rain, you’ll crush it. my experience with rain is that it somewhat (even if subconsciously) takes the pressure off. you know the conditions aren’t ideal, so you relax. I’ve run many PR’s in the rain!
my only advice would be to wear a hat with a brim. You don’t want to be blinking out rain drops for 26.2 miles. I almost always wear a hat and it helps a lot in the rain (snow too) and keeps the sun off your face.
Have fun! Can’t wait to hear about it
runner26 recently posted..Winter Running in the City
Hmmm, yes, I need to find a hat. And I love what you said about taking the pressure off! That could be a very good thing. Thanks so much, Angela!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I’ll be crossing my fingers for some clear weather for you! I can deal with rain, but wind is terrible- especially for a full marathon.
Your goals look great and you will do awesome!
Jerilee recently posted..Sometimes I run and Christmas…
Thank you, Jerilee! I agree– the wind is much worse than rain.
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Wow, Laura, I’m so excited for you! I’m praying for no wind–the rain would be a nuisance but if the wind isn’t bad you can absolutely get your A goal, I’m sure of it.
Afer CIM, I would say wear shorts, a sleeveless top, arm warmers and a throwaway top you can ditch as you get warm. You don’t want anything that will weigh you down once you’re wet (and it sounds likely you will be!). I would also wear a baseball cap. Someone told me this ahead of CIM and it was a godsend–no water dripping into my face.
Good luck! You will be great!
Terzah recently posted..Introverts and Group Runs
Perfect- after reading through all these comments, that’s the outfit conclusion I was coming to as well! I hadn’t thought about the hat- adding that to my must-find list. Thanks for sharing my excitement, Terzah!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
This is weekly hop amazes me all the time and I learn so much from you. I am new (very new) to running and I am trying to get my first 5k under my belt. (Along with running without my lungs burning) Thanks for the inspiration and good luck on the marathon. I will be back to read more. U ROCK!!
Good luck on your race prep! You will rock it, just enjoy yourself : ) Those date ball cookies look pretty yummy, too!
Sarah Jane @Fit Betty recently posted..2013: Are You Ready to Be Your Best?
Kick butt. Girl, you’ve worked so hard! Sorry my punctuation is off
It took me so long to finally start getting close to my mcmillan times for long distance races. I think it’s like you said, it’s harder to stay on for the longer distances (although I know my body prefers them!). For rain, I would make head and arm holes out of a garbage bag – good throwaway rain coat if it starts out bad. Good luck!!
Heather @ Better With Veggies recently posted..Fitness Friday: Encourage a January Joiner!
Thanks, Heather! I was thinking the same thing about the garbage bag… cheaper than running out to buy a raincoat, too.
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I ran the CIM monsoon this year too. Wear tighter fitting clothes. If you get wet, they won’t hang. And body glide anywhere that has ever chafed on you before.
Also compression socks might help.
Karen recently posted..Recovery, round 2.
Thanks, Karen. I’m considering compression socks… although the temps will be in the 60s when we finish, so I don’t want to get too warm. Body glide is a great idea!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I just started training for my first 1/2 so I’m in no position to give advice and it looks like you’ve gotten very good suggestions from everyone-so I’ll just say good luck and have fun!!
Thanks, Monica! And best wishes in your training!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
First of all, best of luck! Secondly, if it’s gonna rain I prefer to be wearing less clothing…less to get wet. Thirdly, I, like you, have a marathon prediction from McMillan that’s faster than I’ve run. I find it hard in a race that has so many variables. That being said, sometimes you just gotta go for it. I would go for B – BQ. I did that at my second marathon and had to fight hard in the last 5 miles, brain was so addled I didn’t even know if I’d make it because I couldn’t do the math! And in that race I carried a water bottle belt for the first half and switched to a water bottle for the second half. I wouldn’t normally run with fluids but it enabled me to skip the water stops (saving time) and it was Disney so it was HOT! My water belt actually burned my skin, it chafed so badly!
Alison @ racingtales recently posted..I Feel it in my Fingers, I Feel it in my Toes…Raynaud’s Disease
Ugh, a hot race does not sound like fun. I ran two hot races this fall that really wiped me out! I think you’re right, aiming for B is what I’m leaning toward too. Thanks for the encouragement, Alison!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
You sound prepared! I love that your splits are going to post to Twitter real time. I wish that the aps played things back to you through your earbuds. You know, so it says “CarliAlice says you go girl”. Only it would sound like Steven Hawking talking because it’s an electronic device reading to you. On seconfpd thought, that might be distracting.
Carli recently posted..One Small Change #FitnessFriday No. 2
Haha, that would be hilarious.
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Recap
Good luck, good luck, good luck! In my experience, the most crucial piece of equipment for running in the rain is a good attitude. It’s the one thing you can control! Have fun; you’re going to do great. If you don’t mind carrying things, a disposable water bottle is a great supplement.
Again, good luck and have fun!
Kasey recently posted..Slacker
Great point! My attitude will definitely affect the whole experience. Thanks, Kasey!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Laura, I’m so excited for you. I think you have a wise plan of the first few miles and that you know your body well enough to pace yourself after that.
I’m so excited for you and will totally be following you. Good luck and have an amazing time.
Carrie@familyfitnessfood.com recently posted..Happy Friday – fitting in my workouts and the Biggest Loser
Thanks so much, Carrie!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Good luck and I’m sure you’ll do great. You’ve been training for this and I know you’ll rock it!
Lauren @ Ready, Tech, Run! recently posted..Some Sweet Sweetheart Shuffle News!
You will do well! Just stick to the 8-8:15 range and see how it feels for a few miles, then steady on at 8 if you feel great!!
Loved the advice for a hat. And if you have any chafing issues, those tend to be worse in the rain.
Go get em! You are ready!!
Raina recently posted.."Crazy Talk" and some pics
Thanks so much, Raina!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
I think your pacing plan sounds perfect! So glad you’re having updates posted to twitter – can’t wait to follow you as you run!!! GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!
Michelle recently posted..2.5 Weeks Down, 13.5 Weeks To Go
Thank you, Michelle!!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
You’re going to rock this race Laura! I’m experimenting with fuel and hydration options now so I’m curious to see what your readers share.
Jill @ Fitness, Health and Happiness recently posted..Fitness Friday || Training For An Ultramarathon
I hope to see you out there! My goal is also 3:30. Let’s run a few miles together!
Elizabeth @ My Neon Running Shoes recently posted..A hot and steamy lunch date and a runner’s high
Oh, how fun! Hope to see you tomorrow!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Good luck!! I didn’t wear a fuel belt for our marathon and I felt sufficiently hydrated throughout the race, but maybe your husband could meet you half way just to be safe.
Our race day was slightly rainy in the beginning and I still wore shorts and a t-shirt, good luck deciding!
I can’t wait to hear how it goes
Jamie @ couchtoironwoman recently posted..Choice Organic Teas Review
Wow – lots of great advice here already! I don’t have much to add except too enjoy yourself, and I hope everything goes your way!
I noticed McMillan now have an option for speedster or endurance monster, depending on your natural ability – could this affect your predicted time slightly? Whatever – I know you’ll do well, and can’t wait to read your report!
Sherry recently posted..Next Up – The Tussock Traverse
Thanks, Sherry! Yes- that would help, I didn’t see that… I think entering ‘speedster’ would give me a more accurate time. I’ll try that!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Plans and Goals
Pacing is terrifying. Good luck! I’m really looking forward to reading your recap.
And the date balls are inspired. I know dates a really popular fuel with raw athletes – it scares me just how dense those babies are!
Kate recently posted..Spicy Run
Thanks, Kate! And yes, I ended up not wanting the date balls after all… I was saving them until around mile 20, but my stomach was not interested in any more fuel at that point. They were perfect for immediately after I finished, as I started to feel weak and hungry before getting the rest of the race food.
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Recap
Lots of luck to you!!!
Lisa recently posted..Pixie Dust!
I’m new to your blog but GOOD LUCK!!!! Looks like you are planning an awesome time!
Thank you so much, Kim!!
Laura recently posted..Houston Marathon Recap
I’m new to your blog, too, but just wanted to wish you good luck! Enjoy the experience!
Mary @ Fit and Fed recently posted..Bronze Ice Dance Test | Hickory Hoedown
Thank you so much, Mary!
[...] Thanks again for all the support! I was thinking of so many of you as I ran, and the encouraging words you had left on my marathon goals post. [...]