In 1984, I was 14 years old and heard that the first-ever Women's Olympic Marathon Trials was going to occur. This did not make sense to my love-of-running-teenage-mind. If the Olympics had been happening for thousands of years, why was this the first Olympic Marathon for women?! I'll leave it to you and Google to answer that question. All I can tell you is that I was mad!
Fast forward to this weekend, February 3rd, marking forty years since the inaugural Women's Olympic Marathon Trials. I remember watching the first Trials, seeing Joan Benoit Samuelson cross the finish line first, a feat she later replicated in the Olympics. She instantly became my hero.
Coach Carol with Joan Benoit Samuelson around 1995
While Joanie's goal was to win the Olympic Marathon, you may have a different goal. Whether you have never walked or run a race or have run hundreds, the next step after you choose a race is to make a goal.
Here are some example goals to help you get started:
I run a 3 hours or faster half marathon.
I have fun for the entire race from the starting line to the finish line.
I walk 3 times a week and run 3 times per week to train for my race.
I enjoy the views and experiences during the entire event.
I meet one new person during each mile of the race.
I develop a strong core and improve my endurance.
I enjoy my time running with my friends.
I complete my first 5K in under 1 hour.
Dream big, drawing inspiration from Joanie's remarkable journey.
Have fun choosing your goal!
Your Partner in Health and Fun,
Coach Carol
P.S. The Olympic Marathon Trials will be live-streamed on Peacock starting at 7am PT/10am ET and aired later on NBC at 9am PT/noon ET Saturday, February 3rd.
Starting Friday, let's work together to reach the goal of better strength, balance, flexibility, and lifetime fitness.
February fun and fitness - Join us February 2nd - 29th for the
