It is a LOT harder to make the wise decision NOT to do an event. This kind of disappointment is ROUGH.
You mentioned getting older...I know that there are a lot of quite wise, young women on TE...but I never would have been one of them.
When I was in my 20's, I ran and ran and ran through the pain until I did lasting damage to my knee...and it still bothers me to this day.
Now, in my 40's, I know I have to sometimes live to fight another day by stepping back. Doesn't make it any easier, though. So sorry for your disappointment!
"The best rides are the ones where you bite off much more than you can chew, and live through it." ~ Doug Bradbury