Ahhhhh! Ahhhhh!
Well, that didn't translate to the written word very well. Just imagine Robert Plant as he's belting out the screams in "Immigrant Song". That's how I felt after today's run. Good screams. I wanted to shriek with joy at the end of 18 miles with 10 miles at marathon pace today. Finally, a good run. A run that required me to maintain a challenging pace for a long time. A run that I was able to finish and want some more.
What is marathon pace? That's a good question. Today, with my bruised confidence, I just wanted it to be below 7:30. But after two miles at that pace, we realized that it needed to be faster. So, we dropped to 7:20 and 7:10 and then 7:05. Next time, I'll try 7:05 as a start.
Today is the kind of run that reminds me of why I like marathon training. I had a challenging schedule this weekend with NO time to run on Saturday. So, I adjusted my running schedule all week so that I could be recovered and ready to hit the long run early Friday. Getting 18 miles in before work means wake up and smell the asphalt no later than 4:45 AM. Ouch. Getting it done when it ain't easy is what marathon training is about. Marathon training teaches you to overcome the overwhelming desire to give up. I could have given up on this week, but I found a way and I'm glad I did.
I asked Matt if he wanted to join, and he did. He's as crazy as I am. It's beyond awesome to have a training partner who'll join you with a crazy schedule like that. And Matt really pushed the pace this morning. I couldn't have done today's workout without him.
2 comments:
FANTASTIC to hear this!! That's great!! I'll keep saying it...sub 3 has your name written all over it!
:D
I love the long run also. I wish I was down to 7:30 min/miles on my long runs, although I did have a good run Saturday (18 miler). Generally people do not realize the preparation necessary for a marathon at a target pace. I think you will make your goal. Hope 18 and 20-mile runs are in my future until mid November. I am on track for Dizzy 50.
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