new runner

[first timer]

i have just taken up the sport and have been running for the past 16 weeks following a program for a full marathon.my half time is 1:43:46 what should i shoot for having never run arace before

[Sandy]

http://www.runnersworld.com/cda/finishtimecalculator/0,7160,s6-239-283-316-0-0-0-0-0,00.html?splitDist=21&splitunits=kilometers&hrs=1&mins=43&secs=46&totalDist=26.2&x=&y=


Accoding to this website the following would be a predicted finish time:

Base on a split distance of 21 kilometers at 01:43:46, this race participant's projected finish time for a marathon will be:
 
03:28:21   Projected marathon finish time

Keep in mind that nutrition and pacing would play a huge role in achieving this.  You should also add 15-20 minutes for first time mistakes.

Hope this helps!

[Jon]

Hi,

... And according to this calculator (http://www.mcmillanrunning.com/mcmillanrunningcalculator.htm) your predicted time is  3:38:51.  So now you have a time range.

I only checked with this calculator b/c that seemed like a fast prediction from the one Sandy used.  I punched in my own half PR using that other calculator and it gave me a time that I doubt I could do.  Just thought I'd give you something else to think about.  Having been in this sport for a while I would also add that for your first Marathon, I would try not and get too wrapped up in a time goal.  Pacing and nutrition are key (as mentioned) and it really is a sport where time and experience are most helpful, and that doesn't come overnight.

Good luck.

Jon

[first timer]

to Sandy & Jon thanks for your help, hope your close on your estimate,i will be running next week in the county

[first timer]

Sandy it would appear your prediction of an extra 15 to 20 minutes was very accurate for figuring in my inexperience,i finished with a time of 3:53:38.ithink my long run training needs some work and ialso need to pay atteention to the slope of the road those s -turns were a killer! very happy for my first race ever cant wait for the next one.

thanks first timer

[Lisa C]

Congratulations on a great race!

[Sandy]

Excellent!!  Sub 4 hours is supurb for a first marathon.  I'll bet you learned a boat load of things for the next one.  Congratulations on an excellent race!

[Jane]

Wow, you are fast!  Congratulations!!