I ran the NYC Marathon and I have some thoughts.

I ran the New York City Marathon and here is what I learned. 

Well first, let’s flashback to November 5th 2023. This time last year, I watched my two friends Chellie and Rachael cross the finish line of the New York City Marathon. Rachael crushed the race but clearly was over her experience. I remember asking her in the moment if she would do it again and without hesitation, she said no. Then I looked over at Chellie who started to cry. I thought, Jesus, what just happened to my friends?! Then I realized Chellie was overcome with tears of joy. 

At that moment, I thought, damn, that is so cool, I want to experience that. So, I signed up. Spoiler alert, when I crossed the finish line, I didn’t cry. I didn’t feel overcome with any sense of emotions other than relief and joy. I wanted to cry (for that full circle moment), but I felt nothing deeper. But I think I know why. For one thing, the whole experience was a blast. From start to finish I had my best friend by my side. We chatted, we took it all in, we waved at everyone screaming our names. I stopped to say hi to all my friends, I ran backwards to get a donut at Peter Pan Donuts in Brooklyn. While getting it under five hours was a goal, I didn’t really give a shit. Which, I think, is what made it so fun. 

Here are a few other lessons along the way. 

1. Train hard, hold yourself accountable but know that it might all go to shit too.

With three weeks to go, I hurt my knee. I had just completed my final long run of 20 miles and thought, well that was easy. I got cocky. Then, after a workout, I had tweaked my knee and had to stay off of it. I went from, this marathon thing will be a breeze to.. Oh shit, what will I do? 

2. Relax. 

I panicked when I hurt my knee. With every step I could feel it. Driving hurt and even walking became painful at times. I thought, if I can’t walk a mile, how will I run 26.2? Well, I was fine. So, maybe the pain had manifested more in my head and from stress than a real issue. The human body is wack, I think we would all benefit from just chilling the fuck out. 

3. Have fun! 

Like, I get it, be competitive with yourself, if getting a sub 3 marathon is your thing, then run your heart out, but remember that is a choice and something that you must enjoy, maybe even just subconsciously. For me, running has always been an escape. Time away from reality, my phone, the world. It’s my way to slip away for a bit and do something for myself and my health. Remember to keep your “why” in mind when doing.. well, anything! 

4. There is nothing like a shared experience. 

Look, I have always cherished my independence. In high school my mom would leave me home alone for weeks at a time while she went on business trips. I love alone time, doing what I want, when I want, etc. You get it. BUT there is nothing like a shared experience when you’re on the same page as someone. Running side by side with Chellie from the start line to the finish line was unreal. Running with her gave me the confidence to engage with the crowds more. Smile more, stop and see my friends, take photos to save the memories and chat our way through something so special. For the first 10 miles I felt like I was on a Disney ride just taking in the journey, and then the pain started to sink in, but it was still a blast! I also had someone to tell, my hips hurt, which helped, I think it's clinically proven? Anyways, it was a good reminder that you don’t always have to go at it alone, having someone with you is special. 

5. Just do it. 

Not to be a Nike slogan, but so many people have told me they want to run a marathon. Okay, then do it. I feel the same way when people say that about standup. We all start out as noobs. We embarrass ourselves along the way, hell, I signed up for two other marathons before this but an injury and covid got in my way. Keep trying, keep going and just…well.. Do it! 

Okay, I think that’s enough for now. I don’t want to sound obnoxious. I ran a 5:04 marathon, I ran backwards for a donut and have no degrees to give advice, but that’s just my life experience. If you read this, thank you. If you read this and feel a slight spark of inspiration. Amazing. 

Regardless, I appreciate you.. As always! 

XO, 

Torey