I personally run this race in two different mindsets. Before the race, I take a moment and reflect back on those that we have lost and their lasting impressions they made on so many people. I take that strength with me to the start line.
I was cruising through the first two miles, then I hit the third mile where you conquer a long and steady up hill for at least a third of a mile. When I wanted to slow down, I thought of those amazing women listed on my back and I knew that after the fight that they have been through that pushing up this hill is NOTHING! I knew that I could not do anything but my best. Yes, the course was a little tough (rolling hills through out). The hills don't even being to to compare to what these warriors go through during their fight.
I hit the mile 3 marker and knew it was going to be close to my PR which I set last week. I pushed and gave it all I had. I emotionally crossed the finish line with a new PR of about 10 seconds! To be honest, this course was way tougher than last week's 5K when I shaved over 30 seconds off my 5K PR. This just shows that running is a very mental sport because my emotions and heart took over my race and helped me run stronger.