2023 Running Recap
An Increase in Miles
There are different ways to look at my running results for 2023. By one measure it was a significant improvement from the previous two years. In 2021 and 2022 I was still working back from an Achilles injury so my totals those years were 658 and 718 miles. Those were well below my 2020 total of 1505 miles, the year of my last full marathon. So, my 2023 total of 951 miles was over 220 more than the previous year.
Although I was happy to break 950 miles for the year, at the start of 2023 I thought I’d break 1000 miles, so I’m a little disappointed. However, since I still have lingering Achilles issues I should keep things in perspective and be happy with 951. In fact, I actually am grateful that I can still run and race at all at 65 years old!
Still Faster Than Most Old Guys
When I look at the races I ran in 2023 I also have mixed emotions. I only ran in five races, and all of them were 5ks. I had decided that I wasn’t going to race any half-marathons or full marathons in 2023 and focus on speedwork to improve my 5k performance. With two 1st place, one 2nd, one 3rd and one 4th place, I was not unhappy with my performance. In terms of finish times, I had a sub-8:00 minute pace in 3 of the races which was a goal pace this year.
A Balanced Approach
In 2023 I wanted to increase my miles from the previous year and get back to a few good races, but I also didn’t want running to get in the way of other things. I took some nice trips this year and did get runs in while traveling but it wasn’t a high priority. I also was able to play over 40 rounds of golf this season. Early tee times made it difficult to get a run in some days but I didn’t stress about missing runs. Hopefully running will always be a part of my life, but I also want to enjoy many other activities.
Goals for 2024
Well, having said all that stuff about priorities and other activities, I still want to set goals for my running this year. I haven’t decided on the specifics but they will include more miles, more races, and faster times. Maybe a destination race-cation somewhere.
Then there are other goals like more golf (and lower scores). More hiking and trips to explore the USA. More bike rides. More pickleball.
It’s a good thing I’m retired!