Boston

"Beantown" is not just a city. For runners, it is a goal. It's something that motivates thousands to push themselves beyond their limits as they strive to be among the running elite.

The Boston Marathon is the most prestigious marathon in the world. The level of competition is simply unmatched and the historic course draws countless international runners every year.

It's the Super Bowl of running, if you will.

Of course, with such a popular race comes incredibly fast qualifying times. Most runners will never come close to their qualifying times as it takes not only hard work, but God-given talent to run 26.2 miles at such a pace.

Being a 26-year old male, I am among the lucky bunch who would face the toughest qualifying time of 3 hours and 5 minutes. For those of you keeping score at home, that is just a tick over a seven minute mile. For every mile. 26.2 of them.

You heard me right.

In the last four years I've completed over a dozen marathons and have witnessed some incredible runners. I say witnessed because I normally find myself slightly ahead of the middle-of-the-pack guys, usually finishing right around four hours.

I never dreamed of Boston because I didn't think it was possible. Then I had a thought...

Five years ago I never thought I'd run a marathon. I've run 12. After I finished my first marathon, I thought there was no way I could go further. I have, in three ultras. I've learned that the human body is capable of amazing things. Why should I limit myself?

I want to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

There. I said it. I avoided saying those words for four years. I'm giving in.

I want it.

I could surprise myself and reach my goal quickly, but chances are this could be something I chase after my entire life. All I know is one thing...

I WILL GET THERE.