July 26th, 2009

Berlin Bound

This year has presented me with challenges that have left me both frustrated and motivated. It has been frustrating to know that I have pushed myself to work harder than I ever have before and yet I have not had it come together in my races. Finding a balance has been tricky and may be the key, in allowing my work to shine. Shifting the focus to the process and not the outcome has been my goal on a daily basis. 

I have made some changes this year that I do not regret. I believe the changes will make me a better person and athlete. The struggles I am facing are the defining moments, I am keeping faith. If everything in life came easy, the climb would not worth it.

This winter and spring I have been adapting to a new training program presented by my new coach. For a while, I thought most of my fatigue and heavy legs were completely associated with the new stimulus but come to find out the combo of a new training program and high altitude left my iron levels low. With the low iron, getting through a daily run was a chore and races were even harder. After the national championships, I told my coach I wish I could just go out in the woods and hide for a while and come back to the track once I felt strong and like myself again. But, we both agreed that hiding was not the solution. Since the US champs I have been home in North Carolina, training, resting, and regaining confidence. I miss the camaraderie and environment of my training group, so I think of them often and find myself pushing to dig deep and get the most out of each workout.

Mentally I am ready to go, and with each day I am feeling more pop in my stride. The fire and fight in my belly is strong as ever. I am relaxed and believe in my training. As long as my body is there for me, the remaining races this season should be fun! Berlin is right around the corner and there is nothing better than slipping on the USA jersey and running for something bigger than yourself.

I am ready to run fearless.

Dream Big!

Shalane