2018 Nashville Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Recap

Last weekend, after 18 weeks of training, I completed the Nashville Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon! I did some things right and some things wrong, but overall it was a good first marathon experience.

Final Weeks of Training

The final few weeks of Nashville Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon training were spent winding down in mileage. I was on a work trip the 18th week and only able to get in a few miles on the hotel treadmill. I also unfortunately got a head cold and was pounding DayQuil and these uber-powerfull numbing cough drops. If you need something to help you fall asleep, you can read my previous training week recaps here:

Nashville Marathon Training
Nashville Marathon Training Weeks 1-3
Nashville Marathon Training Weeks 4-6
Nashville Marathon Training Weeks 7-9
Nashville Marathon Training Weeks 10-12
Nashville Marathon Training Weeks 13-15

Finishing

I’ll cut to the chase; I finished, which was the only goal I had set for myself. I’m proud that I completed it but at the same time, I’m a little disappointed that I wussed out and walked so much. I really felt like I was going to be able to run more than I did. Knowing that I had these three cheerleaders at the finished helped me push till the end. 🙂

The Heat and Hills

Let’s talk about excuses! In addition to the head cold, the Nashville Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon route was hilly. Above is a photo of when Heidi joined me for a few miles. I thought the rolling hills were only in the beginning, but they continued throughout the entire marathon route. I approached several of the last hills with the run half/walk half attitude. 

The heat was also something I wasn’t used to. During the second half, the temperatures reached the 70s with full sun. I hydrated a ton the day before and the morning of but I still felt thirsty during parts of the marathon. I had sunscreen on, but I still got sunburned in a few spots. The stations with salt tablets and peanuts were a lifesaver.

Next Time?

The day I finished I was already thinking about the next time and what I’d do the same and what I’d do differently.

1. I wouldn’t do the Nashville Marathon again, but I would do the Nashville half. The first half had a great route, with lots of sights to see and spectators to cheer you on. The second half was more industrial spaces with far fewer spectators.
2. I would skip the headphones next time. They were great for training, but I think I missed out on lots of the music and cheering during the marathon.
3. I would drink and re-fuel the same. I didn’t have any stomach problems and only stopped once to pee.
4. I would find a running partner. I loved the few miles I ran with Heidi! I ran with a few of the same people on the route, but it would have been more fun if I was with someone the entire time.
5. I would will improve my time. 🙂