So my money’s on those two, but my heart is with Kara. She
started running marathons about the same time I did (I remember watching her
get third and set an American debut record a few weeks after I qualified for my
first Boston) and for whatever reason, her story stuck with me. In interviews,
she’s honest and down to earth and determined to bring Americans back into the
marathoning spotlight. She sets her sights high and she’s not satisfied with
anything less than a win. I have watched her disappointing loss in 2009’s
Boston (by 9 seconds, for third place) multiple times, and each time I scream
at the TV hoping and wishing she’ll somehow go back in time and pull out a win.
She ran a new PR (2:24) for 5th in last year’s Boston (behind
Desiree, and the 2nd fastest qualifying time heading into the trials)
only a few short months after having a baby. She hasn’t had a huge breakthrough
in the marathon, but I certainly think she deserves one. She’s tough, and she’s
recently started training with Shalane, which will certainly keep her honest.
But in interviews leading up to Saturday’s race, she seems unsure of herself
(once again, her training has been slowed after returning from an injury.)
Everyone else’s answers to questions about preparedness and nervousness were
typical and of the vein “I’m confident because my training is better than ever;
I’m not nervous, I’m excited; I know I can make the team” but Kara seemed to
not have memorized her script. Her answers were honest and nervous, and
involved admitting she wasn’t sure she’d make the team.
I think Desiree and Shalane will be fighting for the win the
last few miles, while Kara will be fighting off the marathon trials veterans
(Deena Kastor, Magdelana Lewy Boulet) and the newbies (keep an eye on Amy
Hastings, a 2:27 runner). I really hope she can do it, and can keep her
confidence!! I’ll be watching it on TV hours later, but screaming my heart out
anyway.
Dream big,
Teal
Goodness, reading this over after the race, you really nailed it.
ReplyDeleteMaybe you can go to London as a marathon reporter!