It was another solitary run ...we had somewhere to go that day, so I started my run at 5:30 in the morning - a couple hours before any of the group runs got going. I got in the car at 5:15 and dropped off water along the route, then kicked it off from the Starbucks up the steet. (No, no coffee before, it was just convenient.) In my head, this really became three runs - a five miler and then two six milers. Mainly because of where the water stops were, partially because those were just manageable distances, but that mental trick made a huge difference. I really felt strong and consistent through most of the run and having those intermediary 'endings' helped keep it real.
The best part was the end. I was definitely dragging in the 16th mile, talking out loud to myself to keep my motivation up, looking forward to the end. Then I saw a runner (well) up ahead of me and thought, 'Can I reel him in?' I knocked out an 8:22 mile that final mile (averaging 9:44 the rest of the run) and yes, I passed him. What a rush!!
And the best part was, I really felt great almost immediately after finishing. That was a big mental boost as I continue training. I can do this......
P.S. Ice baths suck.....but they sure help the recovery!!!
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