An ultra was never on my horizon. When I started running, my race calendar consisted of 5Ks and the occasional 8K (because the two most popular road races in Buffalo happen to be 8Ks, which, why? and how? but I digress.)

By the end of my first year of 5Ks and sprint distance triathlons, I decided to a half marathon. On a whim. On my fitness. I was hooked on the distance. But a marathon was the most I would do. A marathon was far enough.

Yeah, we all know where this is headed.

There was something really interesting to me about an ultra marathon. I started meeting people who had done ultras. I started hearing more stories about the long, long distance races. There was something different about the ultra. Something appealing. Something that kept calling to me.

The idea of the ultra kept calling. It kept showing up. I planned, then I balked. But now I can put it off no longer. I’ve registered for Mind The Ducks on May 12 where I plan to tackle my first 50K.

My goal is set: To train and run a 50K.

But the most important thing isn’t what I want to do. It’s why I want to do it. This is what I’ve learned about goal setting, that the why part is vitally important, especially on the days when it’s cold and gray and I’m tired and not in the mood. So here are my “whys” for making 2018 the year of the 50K:

I want to see how far and how steady I can run. I want to go deep, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. I want to make myself uncomfortable, test my discipline and dedication, to discover new things about myself.

What are your goals for 2018? What tips and tricks have you learned to help you work with your goals and intentions?

(P.S. Giving away two copies of “I Thought You’d Be Faster: The Quest To Become An Athlete” on Amazon. Contest ends Dec. 10.!)