Red Rocks, Strong Legs & Boston on My Mind: My Sedona Half Marathon
This past weekend, I had the absolute joy of running a half marathon in Sedona — and it was everything I hoped it would be and more.
As the sun rose over the red rocks, the sky slowly shifted from soft pink to brilliant blue, and the towering sandstone formations seemed to glow. It didn’t feel real. Every direction looked like a postcard. Standing at the start line, I took a deep breath and thought, What a gift it is to be here. What a gift it is to run.
Sunshine After So Many Indoor Miles
After logging so many winter miles inside, being outside in the sunshine felt restorative. The air was crisp but comfortable, and with each step I felt more alive. There’s something about running under open skies that resets you — physically and mentally.
This race wasn’t just a destination event. It was a key part of my Boston Marathon training. Thirteen point one miles on a challenging course is the kind of strength-building effort that Boston demands. And Sedona delivered.
The Hills Were Honest
The course was hilly — long, steady climbs that required patience and focus. Rolling stretches that looked manageable until you were in them. My legs had to work.
But every climb came with a view worth earning.
As I settled into the hills, I reminded myself that Boston isn’t flat either. Strength comes from leaning into discomfort, not avoiding it. Sedona became more than a race — it became practice for staying steady when things get hard.
Exactly the mindset I’ll need in April.
More Than a Race
As part of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team, every training run carries deeper meaning. Every mile is tied to something bigger than myself.
In Sedona, as I climbed those hills, I thought about why I’m doing this. I thought about the patients and families Dana-Farber supports. I thought about the research dollars that change outcomes and save lives. And I felt grateful — grateful to be healthy enough to train, grateful for the supporters who have helped me reach my minimum fundraising goal, and motivated to push beyond it toward $18,000.
Stronger for Boston
Crossing that finish line in Sedona wasn’t just about completing a half marathon. It was about building strength for Boston. It was about proving to myself that I can handle hills. It was about showing up for this journey with intention.
Sedona gave me sunshine, red rock views, and tired but proud legs.
