Marathon time potential based on recent race

The fact that you've been running for a whole year and only managed 8-minute miles does give me pause. But it's certainly possible, and that's the goal is have in mind.

In fact, I ran a 10-mile race in February, at 8:14 per mile, and my goal for May 29 marathon is 3:30. It's a stretch, but what the heck. Half Marathon three weeks prior will inform race-day goal.

Good luck.

Typo. Should read: "Its certainly possible, and that's the goal I'd have in mind."

Thanks for that feedback. When I started running a year ago, I was 205lbs (5'10"), now I'm 173lbs. Looking to cut down to 165lbs by May. My first three months of running were really random and low mileage, and my last three months (Dec-Jan-Feb) were mostly treadmill running though I did get a lot of 35+ mile weeks in there.

My goals will be: (safety) finish the marathon (realistic) sub-4:00 and (stretch) sub-3:30

I think 3:30 is realistic. You have plenty of time to reassess. My son is 34 and our May marathon will be his first. His goal is 3:45, but I keep telling him 3:30, ha! I've only had two weeks over 30 miles, but still thinking 3:30 for myself. Good luck, and post updates. Great job with the weight loss.

Congrats on that 10 miler and seeing all that weight that's awesome!

Given how new you are to running, and are adapting to a new body and exercise routine, I think it is too early as early to pick a marathon goal time. Keep training and stay healthy and you might be really surprised at what you're capable of in 6 months.

But just stay healthy! That is huge for making progress.

Losing the weight. Silly auto.