Well this weekend was the dreaded long run of the training plan. 20 miles. The weather was perfect for a change - cloudy and cool, with periods of sun. We set up our water stations about every 4 miles before the run and then got right to it. I pushed the pace for the first 10 miles and felt pretty good. I did end up slowing down the last 4 miles. Legs felt tired but the new shoes paid off. No serious cramping or pain. This morning I found out it will be another 2 weeks for the pool to be ready at my gym. I am bummed about that. But I guess I can still go to the other pool as much as possible over the next 3 weeks to prepare. I also need to work on my transition set up and practice my transitions before race day. I am starting to get that little touch of nervousness in the pit of my stomach. I like the feeling, it helps me keep focused on what I need to do. This morning I did 4 miles on the treadmill and I was actually surprised as to how well my legs felt. I was able to push a 8:50 mile for the last mile and hold it for awhile. I feel that my legs are much stronger than they were before the last marathon, but they are in mucho need of a good taper prior to the marathon. With race season kicking into high gear this month the excitement is building. |
