Race day almost here...(Lisa Colagrossi)

Race day is fast approaching, and I must admit I am nervous! Diana called me a veteran runner. Well let me tell you, she is very kind! I began running seriously about a year ago and have done two half marathons. The times were nothing to write home about, but I finished before they re-opened the streets, so I was pumped. I have never worked with a trainer before, just got advice from fellow runners, (namely Heidi Jones).

Working with Jimmy Lynch has been a Godsend. Even though we have communicated mostly by e-mail and cellphone, the training schedule he designed for me really helped. I feel like I have an actual plan for the race, instead of just winging it. Fatigue is the biggest issue for me (working the 3 a.m. shift is a killer). My main goal this week is to get as much rest as I can and complete the final training runs without getting hurt.

What I love about running is purely selfish. This I do for me. It has nothing to do with being a wife, a mother or even a reporter. I can't wait for all of us girls to be at the starting line, grim determination on our faces, about to push ourselves to the limit. I am already so proud of our Eyewitness News first timers: Diana, Tara and Lori.

My husband and two little boys will be waiting for me at the finish line. I don’t know if I’ll collapse, cry or throw up (maybe all three). So on Sunday, if you see some chick chugging by with a brunette ponytail and a beet red face, give me a shout out. I'll need all the encouragement I can get!