>Running a half marathon is hard work, training for it is even harder. I don’t have the motivation to go out and try to run 5 or 6 miles. That’s because it’s the middle of January, and May still seems so far away. The biggest thing needed right now is support from friends and family. While its great to have that the day of the race, having them there to cheer you on during training is even better. It’s the hardest part. Of course when you should up at the starting line, you’ll try hard. But what or who pushes you now, helps you in the end.

One of my best support groups is the cross country team from Muskingum. Four years of running together and lasting friendships that have made it past college. I jokingly suggested that we all run the half together, thinking it probably wouldn’t happen since we are from all over Ohio. Well, we have our team again. As of now, two of us are doing the half, and two are doing the full. Even though we aren’t all doing the same race and won’t end with the same time, having the support of those who know you and will be there make all the difference. With 107 days left, I better get my (actual) training started!