GO! St. Louis runners: Don’t let forecast psych you out
First off, good luck to everyone registered for this weekend’s GO! St. Louis Marathon & Family Fitness races. Let me say how proud and impressed I am that you’re going out there to test the limits of your body, be it in a race that’s a mile or 26.2 miles.
Alas, weather forecasts right now are calling for showers both days. But please don’t let this mess with your head — especially you marathoners and half-marathoners who’ll be out running a rather grueling race in the stuff. My good friend, Dr. Ed Wolfgram, ran one of his best marathons in a torrential downpour, qualifying for the Boston Marathon. And Nancy Lieberman, prez of GO! did an entire Ironman in cold rainy weather. So it can be done.
If you don’t already own a waterproof running jacket, use the forecast as an opportunity to go buy yourself a nifty one. (Come on, you deserve it!). Then plunk a ball cap on your head, pull the brim down low to keep your face dry and keep moving forward. That’s what I plan to do — I’m running the half. Also, lube yourself with a thick coating of Vaseline or that other sports stuff that helps with chafing.
Whatever you do, relax and have fun. Seriously. It’ll be grueling and the weather might not be ideal, but just remember that you’re doing something spectacular and that the race is your reward for training so hard.
If any of you experienced runners have a tip or two, let’s hear ‘em.
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Cindy Billhartz Gregorian is a features reporter at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. She has reported for the Healthy & Fit section since its first issue. She's a distance runner with seven marathons under her belt. 
Usage - “Psyche” with an “e” refers to one’s self or soul. “Psych” out would be the correct usage.
I’m running the half–and the weather is scaring me! Thanks for the encouragement. Besides–I was on the swim team as a kid, so what’s the worry?!!
Thatta girl, Laural. Splash some chlorine on yourself ahead of time, then imagine you’re doing the butterfly stroke. For 13 miles.
Good luck everyone!
What a nice pep talk for all of the runners that will be out on Sunday come rain or shine. Having run four marathons to date, being on the receiving end of encouraging words always did alot to boost my morale. Good article!
Added bonus of running in the rain: No need for the port-o-potty!
I’m running the half as well. This is my first time at it so I’m super nervous but words of encouragement certainly help to ease my worries.
If you’re going to buy a waterproof running jacket just watch out. Some of them are really warm and that’s not what you’re going to need on Sunday.
Very good point, D. Make sure it’s a shell with no lining. Layering is key. If you get too warm, take it off and tie it around your waist.
My first half was the Lewis & Clark last year (during hurricane Ike)…sure it was only 10 miles due to flooding but Sunday should be no problem after that nonsense!! The rain will keep you cool…plus it’s just fun running in the rain with a whole host of other fools! Best of luck to everyone!