After back to back days exploring some new places, today was just about easy and convenient. I headed out to the Nor-Bath Trail for a basic 8 mile run. I started from the east end of the trail as I often do and figured that I would run 4 miles out and 4 more back.
It was a nice day. Actually, it was a little hotter than I would've liked, so I switched from a regular short sleeve shirt to a sleeveless one. That was a good choice as I was soaked by the end of the run. I'll take this weather any day though. It was 100X better than the summertime.
I was a little slow in the beginning. My calf was stiff like it has been. I thought at first that I might struggle to even do 3 miles. I just plodded along.
Crossing Airport Road was a breeze for a change. That is rare during the middle of the afternoon. This trail is kind of boring, but it amazing how much more enjoyable a run can be when the conditions are nice. The first mile was kind of slow at just under 9 minutes.
There were a few people on the trail, but overall it wasn't too busy. It rarely is. That's why I was very surprised at what happened next. I heard someone coming up from behind. The guy passed me. That's never happened on this trail before. I was actually more impressed with myself for not getting into a race with him. I could've run his pace, but it would've taken some work. He turned off at Bicentennial Park and that was the end of that.
I ran on as I still had a couple miles to go before I'd even turn around. I felt great. I was flying. Without much effort, I was running in the low 8 range. I got over the next road crossing easily.
My legs did start to bother me a little when I hit the pavement and the following road crossing. That had some up and down and I struggled slightly with that too. The pace didn't feel hard, but maybe it was a little brisker than I'm used to.
When I came out to the neighborhood section, I decided to run on the sidewalk for a short distance until I got to mile 4. I then turned and headed back. Again, the pavement was tough. I was wondering if I might have to slow my pace.
Things picked back up though and I was cruising along. I guess I was headed slightly downhill. That seems to make all of the difference. The final 3 miles were solid.
I was just counting down the miles because I was getting hot. It was great to get to miles 6 and 7. Crossing Airport Road was frustrating this time. I had to wait between 5-10 seconds. That cost me some time in the final mile.
That last mile was still quick though. I felt great on the other side of the road and just decided to push for the last half mile. The overall pace even dropped a couple seconds after a 7:49 mile. At some point, I do have to get back to working on my speed.
It was a good run and nice to be done with 8 miles rather quickly. I've put in a solid week of shorter runs. I plan on another run or two on the Appalachian Trail while I'm camping in Connecticut this weekend. Tonight, I'm hoping to bike some more too.
8 miles - 1:05:54 (8:14 pace)
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