Last week was a busy week. This week, I started it off with another big day. I had a 20 miler scheduled. I wanted to push this a bit, so I planned to meet up with Mertz and his crew at Eddyside at 7:30 in the morning.
I would've been there on time, but I had to go to the bathroom at the last minute. Last time I was there, there were no portable bathrooms, so I headed to a gas station on Larry Holmes Drive. I sent Mertz a text saying that I'd be late, but I figured he probably wouldn't get it. Of course there were bathrooms there. I also so Mertz running out as I was driving up.
When I got there, two other guys were there. I thought one of them was his friend Rich, but I didn't know the other guy. I was correct. They were stretching and I didn't really know how long it would take, so I just took off. I had 20 miles to do and was already behind. I didn't want to waste any more time.
It seemed cool at the start, so I wore a short sleeve shirt and my compression pants. I also had on my visor. That gear made me hot as the run progressed.
I started off pretty comfortable as I headed to downtown Easton. I was planning on at least two out and back segments. I had a decent 7:34 first mile. They are doing work under the Route 22 Bridge, so I took a longer route, following the detour. That would add some distance.
I tried to gradually pick it up. It was a nice and scenic run along the Delaware River and then the Lehigh River. As I went down the path, I saw Rich and the other guy above me. I didn't try to pick up the pace, but I guess I did. The 3rd and 4th miles were both under 7 minutes. It didn't seem too hard.
Somewhere before the 4th mile, I saw Mertz heading back. He was cruising. By now, I could tell that I needed to slow it down a bit. It was good to hit 4 miles and turn around. I thought about going out farther, but elected not to.
On the way back, I did back the pace off. I was getting hot regardless. My miles were just over 7 minutes each. That's still around goal marathon pace, so I was happy.
I got very lucky as I took the construction detour. I came under a bridge and for some reason, I thought it was a stop sign that the opposing traffic had and not a stoplight. I didn't even look and I darted right out in front of a car. I was narrowly missed. I got very lucky. Needless to say, I paid more attention after that.
I cruised on back to the car. When I was on the sidewalk section back, I saw the three guys heading back out for their 2nd segment. I was glad that they didn't wait for me, because there is no way I would've kept up. I can hang with Mertz for awhile in the cold, but this heat and humidity kills me.
I got back to the car at mile 8. It was about a 7:10 pace overall. Not bad, but I was very beat and sweaty. I took some extra time to dry off and then ate some GU Chomps and drank some water. The break was much needed.
I knew that I would never last 20 miles if I didn't slow down a bit. I did that by a few seconds per mile. I actually dropped off my visor and shirt in the car. Now, all I had on was no shirt and compression pants. I wasn't too comfortable wearing so little, but I was hot, so I did it anyway. I did actually cool off in the beginning.
In the sun, things were tough. They got a little better in the shade. I went back along Larry Holmes Drive again and over the river. On the other side, I saw two friends, Frank and Dave. Then a few minutes later, Elyssia. Seeing other people you know, even if you don't run with them, is a nice boost. Having the faster guys running around helped me go faster too, even though I was alone.
Even with the slower pace, the heat and humidity was getting to me. I just tried to focus on getting to the turnaround. I wanted to go out to 6 miles from the start, but I figured that that would be too far. Right at mile 4 of this segment, I saw Mertz and then the other guys not too far behind. I was about 2 miles behind I guess.
Rich was encouraging, but I told him I felt like crap. I sputtered along, with my miles now flirting with 7:30. I kept at it though. I ended up going to the loopy part of Hugh Moore Park. I turned around slightly short of where I wanted to. It was mile 12.8.
I came back and struggled with the short hills. Getting to the half marathon point was tough, but seeing that my overall pace was still around 7:15, made me happy. Still, I was slipping. I focused on getting to mile 15.
Seeing that I was getting closer and closer to Easton helped a lot. I just tried to take it a mile at a time. I thought about the fact that I ran 50 miles in one day a few weeks ago. I figured I could survive 5 or 6 more miles. Plus, I only had to go around 17.5 miles and I would be at my car again.
I went through Easton and headed back toward Eddyside. Although my pace had dropped slightly, it really wasn't falling off much. I finally made it back to my car around 17.67 miles. I was exhausted. Mertz and the crew were finished with their run and hanging out for a bit. I talked to them briefly, dried off and got more water. I had to get back out there. The pace was still under 7:20.
I headed back out on the sidewalk. I don't like running on sidewalk, but I think the course I'm running next month has some of it. I might as well get used to it. I went until this was over and then headed up the street a bit. I came back slowly. My overall pace slowed, but it wasn't too bad. It was great to get back to the park and be done with 20 miles.
I was amazed at how I felt afterward. I was tired and sweaty, but the legs felt pretty good. There was only minor soreness. I think back to last spring when a 17 miler nearly killed me. I am so much stronger now. I wonder if weight training is helping too.
I was happy with my overall pace of 7:22. I wish I could've been a little more consistent with it. In the winter, I can go too hard and not fall off too bad. In the summer, that crash comes quickly for me.
Almost immediately after the run, I thought about doing a shorter run in the evening. I recovered well throughout the day and decided to give it a go. I headed to the Nor-Bath Trail after 7 PM. Lately, I've been starting in the middle of the trail. This time, I started on the end closest to my house.
I went without a shirt and that helped. I still did sweat enough. It was humid out, but also kind of cool. I couldn't complain too much. It could be worse.
I headed out and felt very good. Sometimes a second workout is slow. I felt good for this one though. The first mile was pretty solid. Amazingly, I made it over Airport Road without much trouble.
The big issue was the bugs. They were everywhere. One even hurt my head. I was itching like crazy. I could see them so well in the sunlight. I decided to put on my sunglasses and keep my mouth closed as much as I could. I saw couple running the other way and they were swatting at the bugs too.
There were quite a few people out on the trail. Most of them were biking. The legs felt good as I hit the turnaround point. I didn't want to cross Weaversville Road, so I turned around at 2.47 miles.
Heading back was nice. Either the bugs had left or I couldn't see them without the sunlight's reflection. The pace was slightly over 8 minutes per mile. I had no reason to push it.
I focused on getting to mile 3 and then mile 4. That 4th mile was slightly under 8 minutes and caused my overall pace to dip. I felt good in the last mile. I flew over Airport Road. I finished up at the end of the path. This mile was an even faster 7:24. That brought my overall pace under 8 minutes.
I was a little sore after the run, but still not too bad. I was thrilled to open the week with 25 total miles. That's a good start, especially since this week will be kind of hectic. I'm hoping to run a few miles in the morning. I plan to run in the afternoon tomorrow too. I'm thinking 10 to 15 miles total. Normally, I take Mondays off, but I think it is better to run tomorrow and take Tuesday off. Then, I can go to an IndyCar test at Pocono on Tuesday. I'd pick it back up again on Wednesday.
AM Run 20 miles - 2:27:23 (7:22 pace)
PM Run 5 miles - 39:53 (7:58 pace)
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Getting to 80
Thanks to a big day yesterday, I didn't have to run too much today. I needed 8 miles to get to 80 for the week. I got up to run with BCR. I couldn't decide what to do. Then, I realized that I didn't like where they were running (Plainfield) and didn't want to get stuck running those miles alone.
I slept a little longer and then watched some of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. After some lunch, I headed to the Parkway in Allentown. That is a nice place to run and it is usually very active. The loop is about 10k long, so I'd have to add a little distance.
It was cool and breezy today. I still went with a sleeveless shirt. I was sweating by the end, but not too bad. I wore my visor again today. I could definitely take this weather all summer. I didn't even need my sunglasses.
I started running from the LVRR Clubhouse. I ran the loop in a counterclockwise direction. I felt awful at the start. Yesterday's 22 miles took their toll. Add on to that that I lifted some weights afterward, and the legs were quite sore. Luckily, I had no goal pace.
I didn't enjoy this run much. The stone trail isn't a lot of fun on beat up legs. At least the start was flat. I went along. The first mile seemed like forever.
This path is slightly hilly. None of them were too bad and I was able to go over them without a lot of trouble. I saw a cute woman as I got to the bridge by the clubhouse. There were a few runs, walkers and bikers, but really not as many people as I expected.
At one point, I saw a deer go slowly across the trail. That was weird because I wasn't too far behind another runner. I guess that guy didn't scare the deer. I never did see the deer once it went back into the woods.
The pace got slightly quicker, as usual. I got to the steep Fish Hatchery Hill right around mile 4. I went up that slowly. It is never an easy hill, but I managed it on the slower pace. I flew down the backside and nearly ran into a woman who moved to avoid a washed out section.
Since I needed more mileage, I decided to cross Fish Hatchery Road. There is a short extension there. I went out and back until it started to climb. That got me an extra .4 miles.
I headed back and was running around 7:40 paced miles. The legs still didn't feel great, but I dealt with it. It wasn't too long until I was back to the Clubhouse. I got back to my car at 6.6 miles.
I had 1.4 miles to go. I needed to go out and come back. I ran out until almost the Robin Hood Bridge. I then turned around. I came back slowly. When I got back to the start, I had a short distance to go. I ran over the bridge and kept going on the road. I finished with mile 8.
This wasn't a great run, but it was good to be done. I'm glad to finish a tough week. Hopefully I can bounce back from it. I finished the week with exactly an 8:00 pace per mile overall.
I'm planning on meeting Chris at Eddyside for a run in the morning. I hope to put 80 more miles in the coming week. My schedule is busy, so that will be tough.
8 miles - 1:02:03 (7:45 pace)
I slept a little longer and then watched some of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. After some lunch, I headed to the Parkway in Allentown. That is a nice place to run and it is usually very active. The loop is about 10k long, so I'd have to add a little distance.
It was cool and breezy today. I still went with a sleeveless shirt. I was sweating by the end, but not too bad. I wore my visor again today. I could definitely take this weather all summer. I didn't even need my sunglasses.
I started running from the LVRR Clubhouse. I ran the loop in a counterclockwise direction. I felt awful at the start. Yesterday's 22 miles took their toll. Add on to that that I lifted some weights afterward, and the legs were quite sore. Luckily, I had no goal pace.
I didn't enjoy this run much. The stone trail isn't a lot of fun on beat up legs. At least the start was flat. I went along. The first mile seemed like forever.
This path is slightly hilly. None of them were too bad and I was able to go over them without a lot of trouble. I saw a cute woman as I got to the bridge by the clubhouse. There were a few runs, walkers and bikers, but really not as many people as I expected.
At one point, I saw a deer go slowly across the trail. That was weird because I wasn't too far behind another runner. I guess that guy didn't scare the deer. I never did see the deer once it went back into the woods.
The pace got slightly quicker, as usual. I got to the steep Fish Hatchery Hill right around mile 4. I went up that slowly. It is never an easy hill, but I managed it on the slower pace. I flew down the backside and nearly ran into a woman who moved to avoid a washed out section.
Since I needed more mileage, I decided to cross Fish Hatchery Road. There is a short extension there. I went out and back until it started to climb. That got me an extra .4 miles.
I headed back and was running around 7:40 paced miles. The legs still didn't feel great, but I dealt with it. It wasn't too long until I was back to the Clubhouse. I got back to my car at 6.6 miles.
I had 1.4 miles to go. I needed to go out and come back. I ran out until almost the Robin Hood Bridge. I then turned around. I came back slowly. When I got back to the start, I had a short distance to go. I ran over the bridge and kept going on the road. I finished with mile 8.
This wasn't a great run, but it was good to be done. I'm glad to finish a tough week. Hopefully I can bounce back from it. I finished the week with exactly an 8:00 pace per mile overall.
I'm planning on meeting Chris at Eddyside for a run in the morning. I hope to put 80 more miles in the coming week. My schedule is busy, so that will be tough.
8 miles - 1:02:03 (7:45 pace)
Friday, June 13, 2014
Putting in a Big Day in the Humidity
I needed 30 miles over the final two days of the week, to get to 80 miles total. I knew that that could be a tall task, especially with the weather forecast calling for rain all day. I did manage to luck out. I figured that I could probably get a window to run a few miles anyway.
I didn't work and it rained early in the morning, but cleared out by noon. I knew this was my window, so I got out there to run, just after eating. I went to Jacobsburg and was hoping to run 15 miles. However, it was now hot and humid and I wasn't sure what I could handle.
I wore shorts and went shirtless. I tried out my new sweatband. I also put a lot of stuff on the chafed areas and they now seem a lot better. I still had plenty to complain about.
Since I wasn't sure what I could handle. I walked some of the short, easy hills in the beginning. I wanted to be conservative. I would need to run around most of the park, so I elected to get the open field section over with first.
The beginning of these summer runs are just terrible. Only about a mile in and I was already dripping with sweat. I had walked a lot by that point too. After walking the uphill, it was to the open field. That was just brutal with the sun blazing. I moved forward though.
I think I might've seen a deer's tail in this part. I definitely did see 2 groundhogs. I was glad that the second part of this loop is downhill. That made things a little better. I could've climbed the hill behind the new building, to add mileage. Instead, I went straight back to the parking lot. That was 3.5 miles.
My next plan was to run the big loop around the park that I normally do. I figured that that would get me around 10 miles and if I went up the hill, even more. I walked here and there again. I was in no hurry.
I felt a little better now that I got used to the heat and also was in the shade. There was a bit of a breeze. However, I was still sweating like crazy and soaked by about 50 minutes into the run.
A lot of the run was uneventful. I tried to run a lot. With all of the rain, I knew the normally muddy section would be a blast. It was a lot of fun. I cruised through it.
The miles do seem kind of quick when running on a trail. I just don't look at my watch often. That said, I do know this trail too well, so it isn't as quick as other trails would be.
When I was across from the powerline, I saw a guy running up that trail. I was planning on walking it, since it is exposed to the sun. I thought I might have to run it with him doing that though. However, he ended up coming down it a short time later.
I did walk up it. I walked until I got into the shade. That slowed my overall time, but I knew I'd have some fast downhill coming. I couldn't believe that when I hit 7.5 miles, I was only halfway to 15. The run was moving by at a decent clip, but I still had well over an hour left and I was soaked. I definitely don't enjoy summer running.
I came down the hill and cut a lot of time. I saw some mountain bikers. There were quite a few people out. Not too many on the back part, mostly walkers near the main area. I got back to the road somewhere around mile 9.
I ran on the road briefly and then back on the trail. A truck was coming right before the trail and I slipped when I went on it. At least I didn't fall and nothing was hurt. I just stretched out a bit.
I needed more mileage, so this time I ran up the hill. Actually, I walked the hill and ran the rest. I love the ridge section. I passed a guy and his dog there and he commented on how well I was running. I didn't feel that way. By then, I was sluggish and tiring quite a bit. At least I enjoyed myself. I crossed the creek and got back to the other side. When I ended the loop, I was a little over 11 miles.
I made my one rare stop at this point. I quickly refilled my handheld. I wanted 15 miles, but I knew I'd be happy with 12 miles. Still, I wanted to have less to do tomorrow, so I soldiered on. The pace seemed slow, but it wasn't. I flirted with a 9:30 overall pace for a lot of this run.
I went across the road from the main lot. I figured that I'd try to go out 2 miles there. I made it less than a mile and felt like heading back. I decided to go back on a little longer way. That didn't add all that much. I finished this short loop at a little over 13 miles. A dog that I saw earlier jumped at me this time.
I wasn't feeling all that great, but I was so close to 15 miles. I decided to take the short route back out to the road. That wouldn't be too hilly. I did that and then went back on the trail. I hit mile 14 at the bridge and turned around. I was close to running under 2:20, but it didn't look like I would make it.
The sky was starting to get dark in the final 1.5 miles. In the last half mile, I felt a few drops. I had to briefly run on the main path. There I saw two other trail runners. The guy had a big beard and really looked like a trail runner. I finished up exhausted with 15 miles.
This was a good run and a nice battle with the heat and humidity. I've run farther at Jacobsburg, but typically I stop more. This time, I stopped only very briefly and I didn't walk all of that much. In the final few miles, I kept going. I made it out just in time as it was pouring 10 minutes later when I was on the road.
That run was timed perfectly. The heavy rain and lightning didn't last long. They were coming in waves. Since I saw another one was coming later at night, I decided to try another run in the evening.
I went to some neighborhoods not too far from me. I actually plotted out a 6 mile route on the computer, earlier in the evening. That seemed like it would be perfect.
I parked at a small park. I began by running over to an industrial park on the other side of Route 512. Crossing that road was kind of tricky. I made it though. Even though that was busy, I knew the industrial park route would be perfect.
I ran the loop and stayed to the outside, so I was actually running with traffic. Luckily, there wasn't much traffic and the road is pretty wide. I wore my new shoes. I felt awesomely fast in them. The problem is that they irritate the top of my foot for some reason. I kept stopping to adjust them. Finally, it went away.
The first mile was solid and I was surprised at how much faster I began running. I guess the trail running didn't take too much out of me and I still felt fresh. There were some slight uphills in the industrial park that were surprising.
Crossing Route 512 took some time again. I managed to get across it though. I ran back past my car. That put me at over 3 miles. I was happy to have less than 3 miles remaining.
I was feeling good and moving quickly up the hill. It was definitely still a bit humid, but after the rain, things were much better. Running shirtless on this evening definitely did help too.
After climbing the hill, I crossed a road and was into a neighborhood loop. I've ridden here and run here from time to time, but it has been awhile. A few people were out and some kids watched me run by.
I couldn't believe how good I felt and how quick the pace was. I hit mile 5 of this run and was still going strong. I was running close to goal marathon pace, without too much effort. I'd be thrilled if I could do that next month.
I got back to my car and was disappointed that I wasn't at mile 6 yet. I was just short. By now, I knew that I'd be running to mile 7. I had to go out and back in another neighborhood. I was moving pretty well. I got to 6.5 miles and turned around and headed back. A dog barked at me, but didn't leave the yard.
All of the final 3 miles were 7:06 or faster. That was not bad on such a big mileage day. I finished the day with 22 total miles and I'm now 8 miles short of 80 for the week. I'm hoping to get all of that in in the morning with the BCR. They are running at Plainfield. I don't like it there, but I do like where they go for breakfast, so I'll probably join. I have to mix in some weight training before bed too!
Afternoon Run 15 miles - 2:19:55 (9:20 pace)
Evening Run 7 miles - 52:29 (7:30 pace)
I didn't work and it rained early in the morning, but cleared out by noon. I knew this was my window, so I got out there to run, just after eating. I went to Jacobsburg and was hoping to run 15 miles. However, it was now hot and humid and I wasn't sure what I could handle.
I wore shorts and went shirtless. I tried out my new sweatband. I also put a lot of stuff on the chafed areas and they now seem a lot better. I still had plenty to complain about.
Since I wasn't sure what I could handle. I walked some of the short, easy hills in the beginning. I wanted to be conservative. I would need to run around most of the park, so I elected to get the open field section over with first.
The beginning of these summer runs are just terrible. Only about a mile in and I was already dripping with sweat. I had walked a lot by that point too. After walking the uphill, it was to the open field. That was just brutal with the sun blazing. I moved forward though.
I think I might've seen a deer's tail in this part. I definitely did see 2 groundhogs. I was glad that the second part of this loop is downhill. That made things a little better. I could've climbed the hill behind the new building, to add mileage. Instead, I went straight back to the parking lot. That was 3.5 miles.
My next plan was to run the big loop around the park that I normally do. I figured that that would get me around 10 miles and if I went up the hill, even more. I walked here and there again. I was in no hurry.
I felt a little better now that I got used to the heat and also was in the shade. There was a bit of a breeze. However, I was still sweating like crazy and soaked by about 50 minutes into the run.
A lot of the run was uneventful. I tried to run a lot. With all of the rain, I knew the normally muddy section would be a blast. It was a lot of fun. I cruised through it.
The miles do seem kind of quick when running on a trail. I just don't look at my watch often. That said, I do know this trail too well, so it isn't as quick as other trails would be.
When I was across from the powerline, I saw a guy running up that trail. I was planning on walking it, since it is exposed to the sun. I thought I might have to run it with him doing that though. However, he ended up coming down it a short time later.
I did walk up it. I walked until I got into the shade. That slowed my overall time, but I knew I'd have some fast downhill coming. I couldn't believe that when I hit 7.5 miles, I was only halfway to 15. The run was moving by at a decent clip, but I still had well over an hour left and I was soaked. I definitely don't enjoy summer running.
I came down the hill and cut a lot of time. I saw some mountain bikers. There were quite a few people out. Not too many on the back part, mostly walkers near the main area. I got back to the road somewhere around mile 9.
I ran on the road briefly and then back on the trail. A truck was coming right before the trail and I slipped when I went on it. At least I didn't fall and nothing was hurt. I just stretched out a bit.
I needed more mileage, so this time I ran up the hill. Actually, I walked the hill and ran the rest. I love the ridge section. I passed a guy and his dog there and he commented on how well I was running. I didn't feel that way. By then, I was sluggish and tiring quite a bit. At least I enjoyed myself. I crossed the creek and got back to the other side. When I ended the loop, I was a little over 11 miles.
I made my one rare stop at this point. I quickly refilled my handheld. I wanted 15 miles, but I knew I'd be happy with 12 miles. Still, I wanted to have less to do tomorrow, so I soldiered on. The pace seemed slow, but it wasn't. I flirted with a 9:30 overall pace for a lot of this run.
I went across the road from the main lot. I figured that I'd try to go out 2 miles there. I made it less than a mile and felt like heading back. I decided to go back on a little longer way. That didn't add all that much. I finished this short loop at a little over 13 miles. A dog that I saw earlier jumped at me this time.
I wasn't feeling all that great, but I was so close to 15 miles. I decided to take the short route back out to the road. That wouldn't be too hilly. I did that and then went back on the trail. I hit mile 14 at the bridge and turned around. I was close to running under 2:20, but it didn't look like I would make it.
The sky was starting to get dark in the final 1.5 miles. In the last half mile, I felt a few drops. I had to briefly run on the main path. There I saw two other trail runners. The guy had a big beard and really looked like a trail runner. I finished up exhausted with 15 miles.
This was a good run and a nice battle with the heat and humidity. I've run farther at Jacobsburg, but typically I stop more. This time, I stopped only very briefly and I didn't walk all of that much. In the final few miles, I kept going. I made it out just in time as it was pouring 10 minutes later when I was on the road.
That run was timed perfectly. The heavy rain and lightning didn't last long. They were coming in waves. Since I saw another one was coming later at night, I decided to try another run in the evening.
I went to some neighborhoods not too far from me. I actually plotted out a 6 mile route on the computer, earlier in the evening. That seemed like it would be perfect.
I parked at a small park. I began by running over to an industrial park on the other side of Route 512. Crossing that road was kind of tricky. I made it though. Even though that was busy, I knew the industrial park route would be perfect.
I ran the loop and stayed to the outside, so I was actually running with traffic. Luckily, there wasn't much traffic and the road is pretty wide. I wore my new shoes. I felt awesomely fast in them. The problem is that they irritate the top of my foot for some reason. I kept stopping to adjust them. Finally, it went away.
The first mile was solid and I was surprised at how much faster I began running. I guess the trail running didn't take too much out of me and I still felt fresh. There were some slight uphills in the industrial park that were surprising.
Crossing Route 512 took some time again. I managed to get across it though. I ran back past my car. That put me at over 3 miles. I was happy to have less than 3 miles remaining.
I was feeling good and moving quickly up the hill. It was definitely still a bit humid, but after the rain, things were much better. Running shirtless on this evening definitely did help too.
After climbing the hill, I crossed a road and was into a neighborhood loop. I've ridden here and run here from time to time, but it has been awhile. A few people were out and some kids watched me run by.
I couldn't believe how good I felt and how quick the pace was. I hit mile 5 of this run and was still going strong. I was running close to goal marathon pace, without too much effort. I'd be thrilled if I could do that next month.
I got back to my car and was disappointed that I wasn't at mile 6 yet. I was just short. By now, I knew that I'd be running to mile 7. I had to go out and back in another neighborhood. I was moving pretty well. I got to 6.5 miles and turned around and headed back. A dog barked at me, but didn't leave the yard.
All of the final 3 miles were 7:06 or faster. That was not bad on such a big mileage day. I finished the day with 22 total miles and I'm now 8 miles short of 80 for the week. I'm hoping to get all of that in in the morning with the BCR. They are running at Plainfield. I don't like it there, but I do like where they go for breakfast, so I'll probably join. I have to mix in some weight training before bed too!
Afternoon Run 15 miles - 2:19:55 (9:20 pace)
Evening Run 7 miles - 52:29 (7:30 pace)
Thursday, June 12, 2014
A Slow 7
Today was a tough day to run. Tomorrow, looks to be even worse. It didn't rain all day today, but it was off and on. I had to pick my spots. I waited and eventually ran late in the afternoon.
So I didn't waste time, I ran around my neighborhoods. I was hoping for 5 miles at least, but really wanted 7 miles. Running 10 to 12 miles would've been outstanding.
I am tired of the same routes, so I decided to head to the neighborhood next to the school, rather than the one across from it. This has a gradual hill pretty early on. I began the run very slow.
I wasn't sure if I was even going to run today, because I've had some chafing problems. I've tried to put on some creams, but that only helped a little. I'm still sore. I am also stubborn, so I had to run.
The chafing definitely slowed me down, not that that is a bad thing. The first mile was over 9 minutes. I almost never run that slow. In that mile, I encountered two older guys running together. I usually don't see anyone in that neighborhood, other than walkers.
I cruised down the hill and into the industrial park. I was hoping that I could get over 5 miles on this part of the run. Then, maybe I wouldn't have to run across the street. I had on my new shoes and they worked fairly well.
I got to the industrial park and turned around. I headed to the end of the road and went back. I was well over 2 miles at this point. I then added a short loop through some new houses. I was back up climbing another long, gradual hill.
The pace had picked up slightly by mile 3, but it still wasn't fast. When I was back into the neighborhood, I decided to run the two dead end streets there. Those out and backs would give me more mileage and add a couple decent hills. I was surprised that the first one added about 3/4 of a mile.
I made it through both of the hills and headed back. When I arrived back at the school, I was just at mile 6. I had another mile to go. I actually wanted to add .13 miles to even up my mileage for the week.
I didn't want to go into my neighborhood initially, so I did two loops around the school parking lot. I still had about half a mile to go and was getting bored. I did a partial loop of my neighborhood to finish up.
Overall, this run wasn't bad, other than the dampness of the air. Summertime is so terrible. I was sweating quite a bit throughout this easy run. It was cloudy, rainy and the temperature wasn't that high either. At one point, it rained quite a bit. That was refreshing, but it didn't last. I'm still having the chafing issue, but it doesn't seem as bad.
I really wanted to get out for a 2nd run. I was going to run at night, but it is raining now. I thought the rain would come sooner. I could've actually snuck in a run just before dark. I'm now mad that I didn't.
I still have 30 miles that I would like to run over the next two days, to finish out the week. That will be a lot of running. I'm hoping to get to the trail tomorrow. That would make running 15 miles much easier. It would be nice to get to Jacobsburg. The problem is that it is supposed to rain all day. I may have to find a window. I might need to run twice. I may even need to give up my quest for an 80 miles week.
7.13 miles - 58:49 (8:15 pace)
So I didn't waste time, I ran around my neighborhoods. I was hoping for 5 miles at least, but really wanted 7 miles. Running 10 to 12 miles would've been outstanding.
I am tired of the same routes, so I decided to head to the neighborhood next to the school, rather than the one across from it. This has a gradual hill pretty early on. I began the run very slow.
I wasn't sure if I was even going to run today, because I've had some chafing problems. I've tried to put on some creams, but that only helped a little. I'm still sore. I am also stubborn, so I had to run.
The chafing definitely slowed me down, not that that is a bad thing. The first mile was over 9 minutes. I almost never run that slow. In that mile, I encountered two older guys running together. I usually don't see anyone in that neighborhood, other than walkers.
I cruised down the hill and into the industrial park. I was hoping that I could get over 5 miles on this part of the run. Then, maybe I wouldn't have to run across the street. I had on my new shoes and they worked fairly well.
I got to the industrial park and turned around. I headed to the end of the road and went back. I was well over 2 miles at this point. I then added a short loop through some new houses. I was back up climbing another long, gradual hill.
The pace had picked up slightly by mile 3, but it still wasn't fast. When I was back into the neighborhood, I decided to run the two dead end streets there. Those out and backs would give me more mileage and add a couple decent hills. I was surprised that the first one added about 3/4 of a mile.
I made it through both of the hills and headed back. When I arrived back at the school, I was just at mile 6. I had another mile to go. I actually wanted to add .13 miles to even up my mileage for the week.
I didn't want to go into my neighborhood initially, so I did two loops around the school parking lot. I still had about half a mile to go and was getting bored. I did a partial loop of my neighborhood to finish up.
Overall, this run wasn't bad, other than the dampness of the air. Summertime is so terrible. I was sweating quite a bit throughout this easy run. It was cloudy, rainy and the temperature wasn't that high either. At one point, it rained quite a bit. That was refreshing, but it didn't last. I'm still having the chafing issue, but it doesn't seem as bad.
I really wanted to get out for a 2nd run. I was going to run at night, but it is raining now. I thought the rain would come sooner. I could've actually snuck in a run just before dark. I'm now mad that I didn't.
I still have 30 miles that I would like to run over the next two days, to finish out the week. That will be a lot of running. I'm hoping to get to the trail tomorrow. That would make running 15 miles much easier. It would be nice to get to Jacobsburg. The problem is that it is supposed to rain all day. I may have to find a window. I might need to run twice. I may even need to give up my quest for an 80 miles week.
7.13 miles - 58:49 (8:15 pace)
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
A Big 24 Hour Difference
Yesterday afternoon's run was super hot and humid. Today, it was cloudy and cool. It was basically a 20 degree difference when I headed out. Not much of a chance to adapt to the heat.
My parents wanted to go out to dinner, so I kind of had a tight late afternoon window to work with. I got to Mill Race Park after 3 PM. I was hoping to at least run 10 miles and maybe stretch it to 12 miles.
I haven't been over there in awhile. I couldn't quite remember how far the route was. I decided to first head out toward Tatamy. That direction is much shorter and I could get it out of the way.
I was still slightly sore from yesterday. The beginning of this run certainly wasn't fast and I didn't feel sharp. In fact, I had some chafing problems from yesterday that slowed me down today. I was hoping they wouldn't get worse, or I might have to quit.
I went out to Tatamy and noticed that the one stone section of the trail is now paved. That is great and I'm glad for that. That is particularly awesome for biking on this trail. I went out to the end of the trail and it was just over a mile into the run.
I cruised along back. With the soreness from chafing, the first 3 miles were slow. They were all over 8 minutes. I got back to my car and was getting a little hot. I was slightly over 2 miles at that point. I decided to just run shirtless. That worked out much better. I was still sweating, but not too bad.
I went back out and headed south, on the main part of the trail. It was beautiful with all the leaves on the trees and the creek alongside. I wish I felt better. My chafing problem did seem to go away after a few miles, or I got used to it.
There were a few people on the trail, but it wasn't too crowded. Maybe the threat of rain kept some of them away. I did encounter a couple runners too. It wasn't long before I was at Crayola and near the end of the trail.
I decided to keep going and run until I at least got to mile 5. I knew that I would be adding on to this run at the end. I figured that the full route would give me about 8 miles. I went on the road a bit and then turned around.
At the end of the trail, there is a singletrack through the woods. I went out on that about a tenth of a mile or two. I then headed back. I hit mile 5.5 very soon after that.
Going back seemed kind of challenging for my legs. They sure weren't sharp. I thought they would feel better than this at this point in the week. I kept going over the road crossings.
There is an option to take another short pavement segment. This has some rolling hills and adds about a half mile to the run. It is nice and scenic. I ran there and went back. I put in my third sub 7:30 mile at this point. I came out with about 2 miles left.
Before long, I was back at Mill Race Park. I needed almost a full mile yet, to get to mile 10. I ran back out toward Tatamy. Before the road crossing into Tatamy, I turned around and headed back. I finished at the park with a 7:23 mile. It was a solid run.
I still wanted more mileage. Therefore, I headed back out after dark. The plan was to run 5 easy miles around my neighborhoods. It has got quite chilly, so I wore a long sleeve shirt.
I started with a loop around my neighborhood. I had rolled up my sleeves, but then I decided to pull them down. At least I could sort of try some heat adapting.
There was quite a bit of mist out. Since I ended the first loop in front of my house, I decided to get my new visor to keep the rain out of my face. That worked good.
I went down the the elementary school. There were two women and they were walking like five dogs. One of the dogs followed me, but had a toy in its mouth and didn't do anything. I was glad for that, since I wasn't sure. They certainly didn't expect to encounter people after dark.
I decided that I would run the Blue Eagle 5k course. This was nice and slow and comfortable. I wanted to do this run to break in my new shoes. I bought a great pair of shoes in December. I tried to get the same pair in March, but I ended up with an older model. I didn't like those, so I went back to the newer model this time. They worked great.
I did have some minor initial soreness. As I got used to the shoes, my legs began to feel awesome. I love new shoes.
I also enjoy night running and had fun, even with some light rain. The miles were quite slow, so they seemed to take awhile. It was good to get to 2.5 miles and then mile 3.
I headed back toward home. There were quite a few cars to avoid. I figured that my reflective vest and headlamp were good though.
I got toward the end of the 5k course loop and then headed out on another short loop. I normally run this one the other way, but today I decided to run it in reverse. This was a good way to add distance. I actually ended up hitting mile 5 and finished up just before the school.
I'm not sure what I'm doing tomorrow. I want to run hard at some point. We are supposed to get some rain. I may have to run twice again. I'm also meeting someone for a bike ride in the evening, if the weather is still good. I'd love to put in 12-17 miles.
Afternoon Run - 10 miles - 1:18:30 (7:51 pace)
Night Run - 5 miles - 41:43 (8:21 pace)
My parents wanted to go out to dinner, so I kind of had a tight late afternoon window to work with. I got to Mill Race Park after 3 PM. I was hoping to at least run 10 miles and maybe stretch it to 12 miles.
I haven't been over there in awhile. I couldn't quite remember how far the route was. I decided to first head out toward Tatamy. That direction is much shorter and I could get it out of the way.
I was still slightly sore from yesterday. The beginning of this run certainly wasn't fast and I didn't feel sharp. In fact, I had some chafing problems from yesterday that slowed me down today. I was hoping they wouldn't get worse, or I might have to quit.
I went out to Tatamy and noticed that the one stone section of the trail is now paved. That is great and I'm glad for that. That is particularly awesome for biking on this trail. I went out to the end of the trail and it was just over a mile into the run.
I cruised along back. With the soreness from chafing, the first 3 miles were slow. They were all over 8 minutes. I got back to my car and was getting a little hot. I was slightly over 2 miles at that point. I decided to just run shirtless. That worked out much better. I was still sweating, but not too bad.
I went back out and headed south, on the main part of the trail. It was beautiful with all the leaves on the trees and the creek alongside. I wish I felt better. My chafing problem did seem to go away after a few miles, or I got used to it.
There were a few people on the trail, but it wasn't too crowded. Maybe the threat of rain kept some of them away. I did encounter a couple runners too. It wasn't long before I was at Crayola and near the end of the trail.
I decided to keep going and run until I at least got to mile 5. I knew that I would be adding on to this run at the end. I figured that the full route would give me about 8 miles. I went on the road a bit and then turned around.
At the end of the trail, there is a singletrack through the woods. I went out on that about a tenth of a mile or two. I then headed back. I hit mile 5.5 very soon after that.
Going back seemed kind of challenging for my legs. They sure weren't sharp. I thought they would feel better than this at this point in the week. I kept going over the road crossings.
There is an option to take another short pavement segment. This has some rolling hills and adds about a half mile to the run. It is nice and scenic. I ran there and went back. I put in my third sub 7:30 mile at this point. I came out with about 2 miles left.
Before long, I was back at Mill Race Park. I needed almost a full mile yet, to get to mile 10. I ran back out toward Tatamy. Before the road crossing into Tatamy, I turned around and headed back. I finished at the park with a 7:23 mile. It was a solid run.
I still wanted more mileage. Therefore, I headed back out after dark. The plan was to run 5 easy miles around my neighborhoods. It has got quite chilly, so I wore a long sleeve shirt.
I started with a loop around my neighborhood. I had rolled up my sleeves, but then I decided to pull them down. At least I could sort of try some heat adapting.
There was quite a bit of mist out. Since I ended the first loop in front of my house, I decided to get my new visor to keep the rain out of my face. That worked good.
I went down the the elementary school. There were two women and they were walking like five dogs. One of the dogs followed me, but had a toy in its mouth and didn't do anything. I was glad for that, since I wasn't sure. They certainly didn't expect to encounter people after dark.
I decided that I would run the Blue Eagle 5k course. This was nice and slow and comfortable. I wanted to do this run to break in my new shoes. I bought a great pair of shoes in December. I tried to get the same pair in March, but I ended up with an older model. I didn't like those, so I went back to the newer model this time. They worked great.
I did have some minor initial soreness. As I got used to the shoes, my legs began to feel awesome. I love new shoes.
I also enjoy night running and had fun, even with some light rain. The miles were quite slow, so they seemed to take awhile. It was good to get to 2.5 miles and then mile 3.
I headed back toward home. There were quite a few cars to avoid. I figured that my reflective vest and headlamp were good though.
I got toward the end of the 5k course loop and then headed out on another short loop. I normally run this one the other way, but today I decided to run it in reverse. This was a good way to add distance. I actually ended up hitting mile 5 and finished up just before the school.
I'm not sure what I'm doing tomorrow. I want to run hard at some point. We are supposed to get some rain. I may have to run twice again. I'm also meeting someone for a bike ride in the evening, if the weather is still good. I'd love to put in 12-17 miles.
Afternoon Run - 10 miles - 1:18:30 (7:51 pace)
Night Run - 5 miles - 41:43 (8:21 pace)
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Heat Adapting with 15 Miles
It hasn't been very warm yet this summer. That has made training for my summer marathon kind of tricky. I really need to get used to the heat and humidity. I learned this the hard way with the half marathon on Sunday.
I took a much needed day off yesterday, after 9 straight days of running. I wanted to try to get in a run in the morning today, but I was hoping for 15 miles. I knew that that would take about 2 hours and be tough to do before work. Instead, I headed out in the afternoon.
All day long it was cloudy. There was a chance of isolated thunderstorms. Of course, right as I began the run (around 3:15), the sun came out. I ran shirtless, since I figured that it would be hot. That was a good choice, other than all the bugs I was covered with after the run.
I wanted to run somewhere different, so that I could enjoy the run. I decided to run the D&L section south of Easton. I like this section. It is pretty, next to the Delaware River and it is underutilized. It's kind of a peaceful run on my own.
I headed several miles south of Easton, to a park on the Delaware Canal State Park. I filled my handheld and was off. I wanted to start by heading south. The farther out I could go, the better. I wasn't sure with the heat though.
The first mile was great. It was an 8:10 and I was taking it easy. I didn't look at my watch too often and it was relaxing. I love running in new places. I ran this part of the trail twice in the fall, but haven't been back there since.
The last time I ran in the heat, I pushed too much and fell apart. Today, it was all about running easy and for a long time. One of the tricky things was that I didn't eat much lunch. I also knew that going out I wouldn't have any water stops. My only water would be that which was in my handheld.
I cruised along and it was tough at times. There's some shade, but a lot of the trail is exposed to the sun. I was frying for a bit. Running through the small town of Reigelsville, about 3 miles into the run was nice. It's a cute, little place. They are doing work on some bridges overhead.
All my miles were now under 8 minutes. They weren't too far under though, so I was holding back. I went by a Strawberry patch at one point. That was neat, but it was very hot in this section. I made it to 4 miles, then 5 miles and kept going.
Finally at mile 6, I decided that I better turn around. I was getting quite hot and sweaty. I still had about half of my water. I wasn't drinking a lot of it. I didn't want to get stuck too far out though.
I knew that the running in the heat on the way back would be the toughest. I just tried to stay focused on the upcoming mile. I went back past the Strawberry patch around 7.5 or 8 miles and was dieing. I tried to drink a little more.
I was happy with each passing mile. I was starting to get slightly sore. My legs were bothering me a bit, as was my back. This is a different surface. It's mostly stone, but not completely even. There is dirt too. At least it is very flat. That made for consistent miles.
I was actually surprised that my pace was getting even faster too. I adapted to the heat a little better. I was thrilled to make it to mile 10. I knew I could tough out the final 2 miles back to my car.
I had most of this trail to myself. I don't think I saw more than 10 people total during the whole run. Only 1 other runner was out there. He was moving fairly well. He must've been fresh.
The last mile back to the car was a bit tough. I was getting tired and sore. I battled on though. Finally, I was back to the park. I thought about stopping at my car, but decided to just quickly fill my handheld and go. All I needed was some water.
I filled up and went back out. Without much of a break, it was tough. I just needed to get out 1.5 miles and then turn around. I only had 3 miles left. That was easier said than done though. It was a battle.
This time I headed north. It was very hot in that direction. I struggled a lot. I thought I was slowing down, but my times didn't indicate it. Getting to the turnaround was a big relief. One thing that was nice during the middle and end of this run was that there was a breeze. That provided some relief.
I sputtered along in the final mile and a half. I didn't look at my watch too often during the run, but now, I kept taking a peek. The last half mile seemed like forever. Finally, I finished up at the park. I was very hot and tired and a little sore.
This was a tough run and just what I needed. I was happy to get that many miles in and happy to run a sub 8 minute pace. I'm still not hopeful that I'll be able to run a marathon well next month, but at least I can say I'm trying. Some more long runs like this in the heat and I'll at least adapt better. Whether it is enough though, remains to be seen.
I need a lot of miles this week. I'm hoping to break in my new shoes tomorrow morning. That would be a 5 miler. I'd like to run 10-12 in the afternoon or evening. I was considering a 5k in the evening, but it is in Harrisburg, so it isn't likely.
15 miles - 1:56:57 (7:48 pace)
I took a much needed day off yesterday, after 9 straight days of running. I wanted to try to get in a run in the morning today, but I was hoping for 15 miles. I knew that that would take about 2 hours and be tough to do before work. Instead, I headed out in the afternoon.
All day long it was cloudy. There was a chance of isolated thunderstorms. Of course, right as I began the run (around 3:15), the sun came out. I ran shirtless, since I figured that it would be hot. That was a good choice, other than all the bugs I was covered with after the run.
I wanted to run somewhere different, so that I could enjoy the run. I decided to run the D&L section south of Easton. I like this section. It is pretty, next to the Delaware River and it is underutilized. It's kind of a peaceful run on my own.
I headed several miles south of Easton, to a park on the Delaware Canal State Park. I filled my handheld and was off. I wanted to start by heading south. The farther out I could go, the better. I wasn't sure with the heat though.
The first mile was great. It was an 8:10 and I was taking it easy. I didn't look at my watch too often and it was relaxing. I love running in new places. I ran this part of the trail twice in the fall, but haven't been back there since.
The last time I ran in the heat, I pushed too much and fell apart. Today, it was all about running easy and for a long time. One of the tricky things was that I didn't eat much lunch. I also knew that going out I wouldn't have any water stops. My only water would be that which was in my handheld.
I cruised along and it was tough at times. There's some shade, but a lot of the trail is exposed to the sun. I was frying for a bit. Running through the small town of Reigelsville, about 3 miles into the run was nice. It's a cute, little place. They are doing work on some bridges overhead.
All my miles were now under 8 minutes. They weren't too far under though, so I was holding back. I went by a Strawberry patch at one point. That was neat, but it was very hot in this section. I made it to 4 miles, then 5 miles and kept going.
Finally at mile 6, I decided that I better turn around. I was getting quite hot and sweaty. I still had about half of my water. I wasn't drinking a lot of it. I didn't want to get stuck too far out though.
I knew that the running in the heat on the way back would be the toughest. I just tried to stay focused on the upcoming mile. I went back past the Strawberry patch around 7.5 or 8 miles and was dieing. I tried to drink a little more.
I was happy with each passing mile. I was starting to get slightly sore. My legs were bothering me a bit, as was my back. This is a different surface. It's mostly stone, but not completely even. There is dirt too. At least it is very flat. That made for consistent miles.
I was actually surprised that my pace was getting even faster too. I adapted to the heat a little better. I was thrilled to make it to mile 10. I knew I could tough out the final 2 miles back to my car.
I had most of this trail to myself. I don't think I saw more than 10 people total during the whole run. Only 1 other runner was out there. He was moving fairly well. He must've been fresh.
The last mile back to the car was a bit tough. I was getting tired and sore. I battled on though. Finally, I was back to the park. I thought about stopping at my car, but decided to just quickly fill my handheld and go. All I needed was some water.
I filled up and went back out. Without much of a break, it was tough. I just needed to get out 1.5 miles and then turn around. I only had 3 miles left. That was easier said than done though. It was a battle.
This time I headed north. It was very hot in that direction. I struggled a lot. I thought I was slowing down, but my times didn't indicate it. Getting to the turnaround was a big relief. One thing that was nice during the middle and end of this run was that there was a breeze. That provided some relief.
I sputtered along in the final mile and a half. I didn't look at my watch too often during the run, but now, I kept taking a peek. The last half mile seemed like forever. Finally, I finished up at the park. I was very hot and tired and a little sore.
This was a tough run and just what I needed. I was happy to get that many miles in and happy to run a sub 8 minute pace. I'm still not hopeful that I'll be able to run a marathon well next month, but at least I can say I'm trying. Some more long runs like this in the heat and I'll at least adapt better. Whether it is enough though, remains to be seen.
I need a lot of miles this week. I'm hoping to break in my new shoes tomorrow morning. That would be a 5 miler. I'd like to run 10-12 in the afternoon or evening. I was considering a 5k in the evening, but it is in Harrisburg, so it isn't likely.
15 miles - 1:56:57 (7:48 pace)
Sunday, June 8, 2014
ODDyssey Half Marathon 2014
Today, I headed down to my old stomping grounds of Philadelphia, to run the ODDyssey Half Marathon. I think its first year was my last year living in the city. It has grown in popularity. This was my first time doing it.
Even though I have friends down there, I didn't bother staying over anyone's house. That meant that I had to leave at 4:30 AM. I hate mornings, so that was quite a chore. I couldn't fall asleep last night, so that made it even worse. I got maybe 4 hours of sleep. I had about that same amount on Friday night too.
A bunch of friends were running it. Kelley was nice enough to get my bib for me (actually her brother did). I was grateful for that. I met up with her and the other friends before the race. I had to run back to my car to get changed. Earlier, I was lucky to find a bathroom on the way down. I wouldn't say I was rushed, but I didn't have a lot of time to spare before the race.
I managed maybe a half mile warmup. I really was hoping for 2 miles or more to get the legs going. I did some strides too. At least I was able to do something. It was a fairly good size half marathon, but not too big. The weather seemed nice at the start, but it is summer. I wore a singlet with my compression shorts.
The first wave was a sub 7 minute pace. I was thinking that I'd easily do it, so I lined up there. I didn't line up too far to the front. I was hoping that might hold me back. Instead, it just meant that some people were in the way. One guy that I had to go around was going super slow. That was annoying as hell. I guess the start at the back was even worse.
I was clear pretty quickly and I got into a groove. I was breathing a little hard and the first mile was faster than I would've liked, but that is the norm. It was a 6:11. Usually, I can start hard and then slow down and get into a groove.
This start was pretty flat and a nice way to begin. After that, I knew there would be some downhill too. I didn't think the course would be too hilly. I slowed in this second mile, but already I knew it was probably going to be a tough day. The legs didn't feel sharp and I was tired. Even before the gun went off, I felt very tired. It probably didn't help that I ended the week with a hard trail run yesterday.
I continued on and was quite a bit under goal pace. I heard people yelling for the runners in super hero costumes behind me. I figured that it must be my friend Orlin. I thought he would pass me, but he never did.
The first couple miles were definitely solid, but it was taking more work than I had hoped. The same thing happened in my PR half back in the winter though. I felt like I might be going too hard at mile 5 then, but I was able to keep at it and just keep pushing through. I thought I might do the same today.
I knew one of the main hills was the climb up the Strawberry Mansion Bridge. I was running near a few people and really hammered it to get to the top of it. I thought it was flat after that. I was wrong as there was still a gradual climb on the east side of Fairmount Park. This was definitely more climbing than I was expecting.
I should've taken water before the bridge. That was about the only water stop I skipped all day. I wasn't able to drink much water at each stop. I think I got more on my singlet. I probably should've carried a handheld.
Coming through the east side of the park wasn't easy. I was already starting to feel the effects of the heat and humidity. Really, it wasn't that bad, but at this fast pace, it was very difficult for me. I'm terrible in the heat.
At one point, we ended up running through some cones. I think that we weren't directed through the correct route. That makes sense because my GPS ended up being short. I followed the group though, since I was unsure of the route.
I came through what was the halfway point at 6.2 miles and just over 41 minutes. That was solid, but again I don't think we ran far enough. It was nice to finally head downhill and on to Kelly Drive.
I felt like crap at this point and I think a few people passed me. I was still in PR range, but I was fading fast. The road on Kelly Drive was fairly flat, but I was still struggling with the heat.
At this point, I decided to try to slow down a little and play it safe. I didn't want to overdo it with the tough weather. My pace didn't drop too much at this point. Since I used to live in this area and ran the route all the time, I visually knew how far I had to go. That was discouraging because it seemed very far.
I couldn't wait to get to miles 8, 9 and 10. I think around mile 8.5, I was still on PR pace. There was no way I was going to sustain it though. The weird thing is that at this point, I was fading, but the people up ahead weren't pulling away. In fact, I actually even passed a guy.
It was good to get to Falls Bridge and be heading back. It was also good to have people running around me for a change. At least I wasn't doing this run on my own. The only people I was encountering now were blowing by me though. Someone else went past and asked me about my distance and I told him my watch was short too.
This section on West River Drive seemed like forever. I was alone for a lot of it. There were some bikers out and few spectators. I saw some cute girls here and there. That was a nice distraction from my suffering.
I just sputtered along. I had slowed down already, but body was telling me to slow down even more. I wasn't breathing heavy and I had no soreness. My body was just beat and exhausted. My pace got slower and slower.
I was thrilled to be in the last 5k. However, I ran all the rest of this alone. The other part that sucked was knowing about the big hill at the end. It took a long time, but finally I got to that point.
It was good to nearly be done with this disaster. I was actually still on pace for a sub 1:30 half, but I knew I'd never get up that hill that fast, so I didn't push. The hill was tough, but I was just cruising up it at this point, so it wasn't too difficult.
I picked up slightly on the flats toward the end. Much as I suspected, I was going to come up short on the distance end of things. That was discouraging. However, it did cause me to break 1:30. If we didn't end up on that shortcut, I would've run about a 1:30:30.
I was very disappointed with my time, but I had so many factors going against me. I didn't let it bother me too much. Kelley struggled too and was pissed at the end. Few people did well. Even the winner (who won St. Luke's) said he had trouble with the heat.
I just can't handle long distances with any kind of heat. It has been kind of cool here so far this year too, so I haven't had a lot of chances to adapt. I really need to work on that. After today's race, I'm not very confident in my marathon attempt in a month and a half. I'll lower my expectations and just go up there and run it and see what happens.
Even if the course did run to the correct distance, I still would've run my second best time ever. Being able to crash and still post that kind of time isn't too bad. I was surprised to see that I was 30th overall and 4th in my age group. I didn't feel like I placed that high. They had nearly 3,000 people.
With all my friends there, it was fun hanging out after the race. They had free beer and I did not. Then, four of us went to brunch. It was pretty late in the afternoon by then, but it was delicious nonetheless.
I've run for 9 straight days, so tomorrow will be a much needed day off. Then, I have to really get after it. I want to put in 3 very good weeks in a row. I'd love to hit 80+ miles every week. Then, I can taper and rest and see what happens. I'm hoping for a fairly long run on Tuesday.
12.87 miles - 1:28:53 (6:54 pace)
Even though I have friends down there, I didn't bother staying over anyone's house. That meant that I had to leave at 4:30 AM. I hate mornings, so that was quite a chore. I couldn't fall asleep last night, so that made it even worse. I got maybe 4 hours of sleep. I had about that same amount on Friday night too.A bunch of friends were running it. Kelley was nice enough to get my bib for me (actually her brother did). I was grateful for that. I met up with her and the other friends before the race. I had to run back to my car to get changed. Earlier, I was lucky to find a bathroom on the way down. I wouldn't say I was rushed, but I didn't have a lot of time to spare before the race.
I managed maybe a half mile warmup. I really was hoping for 2 miles or more to get the legs going. I did some strides too. At least I was able to do something. It was a fairly good size half marathon, but not too big. The weather seemed nice at the start, but it is summer. I wore a singlet with my compression shorts.
The first wave was a sub 7 minute pace. I was thinking that I'd easily do it, so I lined up there. I didn't line up too far to the front. I was hoping that might hold me back. Instead, it just meant that some people were in the way. One guy that I had to go around was going super slow. That was annoying as hell. I guess the start at the back was even worse.
I was clear pretty quickly and I got into a groove. I was breathing a little hard and the first mile was faster than I would've liked, but that is the norm. It was a 6:11. Usually, I can start hard and then slow down and get into a groove.
This start was pretty flat and a nice way to begin. After that, I knew there would be some downhill too. I didn't think the course would be too hilly. I slowed in this second mile, but already I knew it was probably going to be a tough day. The legs didn't feel sharp and I was tired. Even before the gun went off, I felt very tired. It probably didn't help that I ended the week with a hard trail run yesterday.
I continued on and was quite a bit under goal pace. I heard people yelling for the runners in super hero costumes behind me. I figured that it must be my friend Orlin. I thought he would pass me, but he never did.
The first couple miles were definitely solid, but it was taking more work than I had hoped. The same thing happened in my PR half back in the winter though. I felt like I might be going too hard at mile 5 then, but I was able to keep at it and just keep pushing through. I thought I might do the same today.
I knew one of the main hills was the climb up the Strawberry Mansion Bridge. I was running near a few people and really hammered it to get to the top of it. I thought it was flat after that. I was wrong as there was still a gradual climb on the east side of Fairmount Park. This was definitely more climbing than I was expecting.
I should've taken water before the bridge. That was about the only water stop I skipped all day. I wasn't able to drink much water at each stop. I think I got more on my singlet. I probably should've carried a handheld.
Coming through the east side of the park wasn't easy. I was already starting to feel the effects of the heat and humidity. Really, it wasn't that bad, but at this fast pace, it was very difficult for me. I'm terrible in the heat.
At one point, we ended up running through some cones. I think that we weren't directed through the correct route. That makes sense because my GPS ended up being short. I followed the group though, since I was unsure of the route.
I came through what was the halfway point at 6.2 miles and just over 41 minutes. That was solid, but again I don't think we ran far enough. It was nice to finally head downhill and on to Kelly Drive.
I felt like crap at this point and I think a few people passed me. I was still in PR range, but I was fading fast. The road on Kelly Drive was fairly flat, but I was still struggling with the heat.
At this point, I decided to try to slow down a little and play it safe. I didn't want to overdo it with the tough weather. My pace didn't drop too much at this point. Since I used to live in this area and ran the route all the time, I visually knew how far I had to go. That was discouraging because it seemed very far.
I couldn't wait to get to miles 8, 9 and 10. I think around mile 8.5, I was still on PR pace. There was no way I was going to sustain it though. The weird thing is that at this point, I was fading, but the people up ahead weren't pulling away. In fact, I actually even passed a guy.
It was good to get to Falls Bridge and be heading back. It was also good to have people running around me for a change. At least I wasn't doing this run on my own. The only people I was encountering now were blowing by me though. Someone else went past and asked me about my distance and I told him my watch was short too.
This section on West River Drive seemed like forever. I was alone for a lot of it. There were some bikers out and few spectators. I saw some cute girls here and there. That was a nice distraction from my suffering.
I just sputtered along. I had slowed down already, but body was telling me to slow down even more. I wasn't breathing heavy and I had no soreness. My body was just beat and exhausted. My pace got slower and slower.
I was thrilled to be in the last 5k. However, I ran all the rest of this alone. The other part that sucked was knowing about the big hill at the end. It took a long time, but finally I got to that point.
It was good to nearly be done with this disaster. I was actually still on pace for a sub 1:30 half, but I knew I'd never get up that hill that fast, so I didn't push. The hill was tough, but I was just cruising up it at this point, so it wasn't too difficult.
I picked up slightly on the flats toward the end. Much as I suspected, I was going to come up short on the distance end of things. That was discouraging. However, it did cause me to break 1:30. If we didn't end up on that shortcut, I would've run about a 1:30:30.
I was very disappointed with my time, but I had so many factors going against me. I didn't let it bother me too much. Kelley struggled too and was pissed at the end. Few people did well. Even the winner (who won St. Luke's) said he had trouble with the heat.
I just can't handle long distances with any kind of heat. It has been kind of cool here so far this year too, so I haven't had a lot of chances to adapt. I really need to work on that. After today's race, I'm not very confident in my marathon attempt in a month and a half. I'll lower my expectations and just go up there and run it and see what happens.
Even if the course did run to the correct distance, I still would've run my second best time ever. Being able to crash and still post that kind of time isn't too bad. I was surprised to see that I was 30th overall and 4th in my age group. I didn't feel like I placed that high. They had nearly 3,000 people.
With all my friends there, it was fun hanging out after the race. They had free beer and I did not. Then, four of us went to brunch. It was pretty late in the afternoon by then, but it was delicious nonetheless.
I've run for 9 straight days, so tomorrow will be a much needed day off. Then, I have to really get after it. I want to put in 3 very good weeks in a row. I'd love to hit 80+ miles every week. Then, I can taper and rest and see what happens. I'm hoping for a fairly long run on Tuesday.
12.87 miles - 1:28:53 (6:54 pace)
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