Oh I'm so excited. Even though the race was 3 days ago, it still hasn't sunk in that I ran under 2:00 minutes and I am only the 3rd Canadian to ever do it...oh, and it's the Olympic A+ standard. The support from everyone has been unconditional and I am so grateful.
While in Tempe, Arizona Dennis got a call from a former athlete of his, Tim, who is now a Nike rep. He offered us the opportunity to run at Prefontaine Track Classic in Track Town USA which is Eugene, Oregon. We jumped at the opportunity. Unfortunately, Dennis couldn't attend; but a very close friend of mine and the Canadian record holder in the hammer throw, Sultana Frizell, was competing as well. She's been on this stage before and this was just going to be another meet under her belt, and she took me under her wing for the few days that we were in Eugene. The University of Oregon boasts one of the nicest facilities, as they are considered "Track Town USA". Stands surround the entire track and they are known to have a very good crowd at every meet.
Race day was Friday, June 1st. Being on the west coast of the country the air was fresh and the temperature perfect for racing. However, there was a slight drizzle and some wind but nothing to throw any of us off too much. The race consisted of mainly Americans, all girls who have previously gone under the 2:00 minute mark, and two Canadians (myself, and Jessica Smith who is from Vancouver). Dennis and I discussed this race in detail and settled on the fact that this was an un-planned opportunity to run fast, and we knew the pace was going to be there, so I was to just get out and run fast. There was a pace-setter who was supposed to go out in 57 seconds through the first 400m, but it ended up being in 55 seconds. Fortunately, I was in a good position and went through in 57 seconds. I was feeling good and I felt the need to pick it up a little with 300m to go. I went wide into about lane 2 to get around some girls, but they felt the need as well to pick it up. With 200m to go I was able to tuck into lane 1 again and I just focused on pumping my arms and cycling my legs. I crossed the line in 3rd which I was pretty excited with. We waited and waited to see the times come up, but it was raining and cool so we decided to head back to get our stuff. It wasn't until I got back to the tent after the race to collect my belongings that my phone is ringing. It's my boyfriend on the other line and he's VERY excited, at this point I realise I have run A+ standard for the OLYMPICS and dipped under the 2:00 minute mark. Needless to say, I was very excited and made my phone calls to my family and coach.
Coming up, I will be heading to Vancouver on Thursday for the Harry Jerome Track Classic which is held on Sunday night. Then to Victoria for another race on Wednesday, June 13th. From there I will head to Calgary and stay with my cousin, Jenny, and just get some training in. I still have lots of work to do. This is no time to settle. I still need a top 3 finish at Nationals. I'm just going to keep on my track that I've been on up until this point. No need to get too excited yet until my name is on the list and my ticket is booked.
I want to thank everyone again for their support. I can't put into words how much this all means to me. To Stefanie, Linda, and Ben and everyone who is going to the Fundraiser in June- THANK YOU! I have so many wonderful amazing people behind me. I'm anxious to get home to see and hug everyone up. Also, to my Uncle Bobby, his crew, and the forestry crew you've all been very generous in your support so I thank all of you as well.
'Till next time
Melissa
I've attached the race below from runnerspace.com
Prefontaine Classic 2012 Women's 800
