I’m hoping that my nerves help get me through
I actually went to school at (Boston College), on the top of the hill, so I think just seeing it every year made me want to do it — even though people going up Heartbreak Hill didn't look too great. It was something that I had in mind for a while. I'm doing it for a charity that helped me prepare for and get into college, Bottom Line.
I'm hoping that my nerves help me get through the first few miles, and then I can settle in. I hope I don't go out too fast. I'm dreading, for sure, the mile between 15 and 16. That 16th mile is the part I'm most concerned about. I can get to mile 15 OK, but there's a big downhill into Newton Lower Falls, and then you immediately feel it. I'm also a little concerned about Heartbreak Hill, but I'm also looking forward to it because I have friends still in school who will be there, and my girlfriend will be at the top of the hill.
I've been asking a few of the more seasoned runners and coaches, and they all say to just keep doing what you're doing. Eat similar things, don't do anything crazy, and Thursday and Friday, get extra fluids in. I think the key is to not try anything too crazy, or too new. Going into my big runs, I've been eating a lot of sandwiches the night before. So that's probably my plan.
After the race I'm looking forward to a big glass of chocolate milk; that's what I've had after every long run!