How she stays in the game:I just keep thinking define myself.
To me, those two words make me really commit throughout the entire 26.2 miles.
Always venture to twist your thoughts into something more positive.
Photo Credit: PCN Photography, Duomo/Corbis
How she stays in the game:Break the race into sections.
The last section is from mile 20 to the finish and its nice and flat.
I like to focus just on the current task at hand.
What she does when motivation dips:I usually have a power word that I use.
Its a word such as ‘courage’ or ‘confidence.’
The power word is big for me.
The best advice shes ever received:The best tip I have ever received is fromJoan Benoit Samuelson.
She told me to Always run my own race.
This has been a skill Ive been working on for years.
You really need to do what is best for you on race day.
When things get painful, it helps me to relax into the pain rather than tense up.
I also focus on being excited for the opportunity rather than nervous and dreading it out of fear.
What she does when motivation dips:I always keep my self-talk positive.
I focus on giving my very best effort, whatever that iseven if that includes slowing down.
I just keep reminding myself that I love competing and going all out.
I usually choose a mantra that I repeat when times get tough.
Each mile then takes on a new meaning and purpose which pushes me to the finish line.
I tell myself I can do anything 26 times.
The best advice shes ever received:It came from another athlete at a pre-race expo.
He said, Sleep is not necessary for awesomeness.'
This helps take the stress out of knowing you aren’t going to sleep well and accepting it.
Photo: Courtesy of Megan Searfoss
Additional reporting by Meg Lappe
