If you’ve been following along on Instagram, Strava, or through the Mediocre Miles series on my blog, you know I’ve been training for a 50K ultramarathon. That race came and went a few weeks ago—and unfortunately, I had to disqualify.

Long story short (because that’s not really the point here), I missed a turn about 7 miles into the race and ended up running part of the course backwards. I didn’t realize how far off I was until I reached the mile 19 aid station… having only run 16 miles. After making my way back toward the start, I ended up a few miles short of the full distance and had to report myself as a DQ.

Okay—back to the part that actually matters: I’m okay with it.

I’m okay with it because, going into this training block, I understood what was guaranteed—and what wasn’t.

I’m a parent of two young kids. At any given moment, someone in this house can wake up with a stomach bug, a cold, or COVID—and then it’s game over. Training blocks don’t always go as planned. Life has a vote.

But I was guaranteed the work.

Sixteen weeks of consistently showing up. Strength training alongside long miles that left me feeling both strong and exhausted. Learning how to fuel better—more carbs, more sodium, better timing. Trying new training methods. And, of course, committing to working hard from start to finish.

Did I run a 31-mile ultramarathon? No.

But I walked away with a pretty solid consolation prize: a four-hour marathon with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain. I’ve actually never run “just” a marathon before, so being able to hold a steady pace—especially through the ups and downs—for four hours was a big win for me.

More importantly, I got to show the 16 weeks of work. I executed a taper that worked. I learned how to carb load in a way that felt right on race day. And I finished the experience with zero disappointment.

Because sometimes, you miss a turn. Sometimes you end up going the wrong way.

But if you keep moving, correct course, and head back in the right direction—you can still finish with a smile.

Next up: a hometown race. The Sleepy Hollow 7 Miler at Cochran’s in a few weeks.

Time to get the legs ready again.

I know I DQ’d- you’re responsible for knowing your own course! But if you’re looking for a Trainer to help you get consistent with your own fitness routine- running or not- take a minute with the form below and learn more about my personal training options!

Mediocre Miles: I DQ’d My 50K… And I’m Okay With It