…But then I remembered why I started blogging in the first place. I wanted my blog to be a resource for those getting into the sport. I hoped my blog could help others learn more about the sport and about how to avoid injuries. I blog because I love educating others—in any way in which I am able. So to not blog about this injury just doesn’t really make sense.
Long story short, my arch/heel would go on to hurt (pain scale between 5-7/10 for the 13.1 miles) the entire half marathon. I actually considered dropping out a few times, but also wanted to see how I fared through it since I was now anticipating potentially feeling this pain in Kona. The good news is that I actually ran a pretty decent time considering the course and the pain. The bad news is that the PT from Athletico that I saw right after I crossed the finish line informed me that my pain was Plantar Fasciitis.
Honestly, the PT didn’t seem super concerned as it seemed as though we caught it early, so I truly thought I’d still get in my two scheduled 20+ mile runs with no problem. I never once thought I’d be writing this blog three weeks later with only having attempted running one time.
I’m very fortunate in that my dad has a lot of awesome friends. His PT friend graciously saw me and provided me with exercises/stretches. He suggested I purchase a night splint, which has definitely proved to be beneficial over the past few weeks….so much so that it gets to come with me to Kona! My dad’s podiatrist friend also graciously saw me and confirmed the PF diagnosis, helped me with taping my foot, and gave me confidence that I could run through this in Kona.
After both Friday and Saturday being completely pain free, I decided I wanted to attempt a run on Sunday. I wanted to know what kind of pain to expect, and felt that if I did it 2 weeks out from Kona, I could still give my plantar time to heal back up.
The bad: PF flared up once I dipped pushed the pace.
The ugly: my face when finishing my run.
The outcome: confidence I can get through 26.2 miles at a slower pace.
One of my friends and fellow Ironman wife just WON her freaking age group at Ironman Chattanooga while training the last month with plantar fasciitis. She and I have been texting back and forth, providing each other with comfort and confidence.
She reminded me of a few things after completing her race (and qualifying for Kona!):
- Being able to push through the pain is what sets athletes apart.
- If I can put my pride to the side and dig very, very deep, I will get through this and learn more from it than any GREAT race I’ve ever had.
- Victories aren’t always on the clock.
- And most importantly, character is built on how you handle the tough situations.