Friday, December 30, 2011

2011: The Year in Review

Even though 8 Crazy Nights of Blogging captured a lot of how 2011 played out, I feel the need to write a year in review post. Let's start with the yearly totals:


Running
Total Distance: 1,288 miles
Average Distance: 8.31 miles
Average Time: 1:10:26

Cycling
Total Distance: 118.38
Average Distance: 11.84
Average Time: 1:02:84

In previous years, I would recap the year month by month reminding myself and whomever is still reading this blog what went well and what didn't. I'm not going to do that this year. I've done that a lot already and I don't want to beat a dead horse.

I'll recap 2011 by saying that I've learned a lot about myself and about what type of athlete I am. Not finishing in Vermont and deferring Marine Corps reminded me that first and foremost, running and cycling should be fun. That's the only way I'm going to stick with it. I'm not going to beat myself up if a run doesn't go well. Not every race is going to be a PR. Finally, Boston is just a race. I'm ending 2011 feeling good about running, cycling, training and racing.

So what's up for 2012? My race schedule is coming together. I have some exciting things in the works and I'll share them once I finalize everything. One thing I'm not going to do, is set any specific time goals for certain distances. I think that's what went well in the early part of 2011 when I set new PRs in the 15k and half marathon. The only goal for 2012 races will be to run the best race that I can on that day.

Happy New Year!

3 comments:

Unknown said...

I like your post and reasonable reflection on 2011 Ari. I hope we get a chance to meet in 2012. best wishes for a successful new year.

Joe Herman said...

Man plans, G-d laughs. I had my own share of triumphs and disappointments this year as well. The bottom line, if you hit all of your goals, then the bar was set too low. I love your enthusiasm and your continued effort - and am sure that you'll have a fantastic 2012.

Anonymous said...

I hear you on being realistic about your accomplishments and goals. Nothing wrong with making 'fun' the primary goal. It is a whole different ballgame when you have a family and other obligations. Good luck with all your efforts in 2012!