Week #7 and the big 2-0!

First of all, how crazy was Kona?! I was on the edge of my seat those last few miles and when Macca and Raelert were stride for stride, I think I stopped breathing completely! In my heart, I was rooting for Crowie but I didn't want Macca to lose it so close to the finish. As for the women's race, I wanted Rindy to take it and when I heard Chrissie was out, I knew this was Rindy's day! Watching her run was incredible - I don't know how she does it but her running looks powerful and effortless at the same time. Huge congrats to all the IM finishers!

Now on to my training update which is going to seem totally insignificant after discussing Kona!

Week #7: 29 miles

Tuesday: 3 miles @ 9:22

Short easy run after Sunday's 18 miler. My legs were still fatigued and it felt like these 3 miles were never going to end. Since it was such a short run I increased the speed and incline a bit.

Friday: 6 miles

The week got a little crazy and I missed Thursday's 2 mile run. Missing a run really bothers me, especially considering I am only training one event at the moment. I was happy though that I was still able to get in a hill run. The weather continues to treat us with cooler morning temps and our runs are certainly benefiting. It's amazing how much faster we run without the oppressive heat and humidity weighing down on us.

Sunday: 20 miles @ 10:09

First 20 mile run of the training and to sum it up in one word... easy. Who knew?! I wasn't anxious about this run at all. In fact, I was getting nervous about not being nervous! Our run route broke down nicely into 5 mile increments which made for great mental checkpoints. Once again half our run was complete before the sun came up and we had the trail to ourselves. I honestly can't get over how easy this run was. We talked and laughed the entire run and surprisingly managed to keep a better pace than last week's 18 mile run. I think what surprised me most was how strong we ran - the second half of the run was faster by over 20 seconds per mile and our last two miles were the fastest of the whole run. I don't know about Christy and Dana but for me, the first half of the run is slower because it's so dark outside. Miles 4 and 5 in particular need a little extra caution because of bad sidewalk and pavement. I really thought that my expected MP of 9:39 was crazy and had set my own expectations at a 10:15 pace but if the runs keep going this well it could be a reality.

I followed up the run with an ice bath and lots of stretching. Other than being extra tired, my only issue is a sore left foot. My arch is bothering me but I have been diligent about stretching and icing it so hopefully it will be good as new by mid week. I am happy to have the first 20 mile monster out of the way and I am actually looking forward to the next one!