…Or the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.
(Yeah this Blog is really late...)
As I mentioned in my previous Blog I signed up for the Fort Bragg Army Birthday 10-Miler before I even ran the New River Marathon. I knew I would need some kind of goal to keep me running whether my Boston Qualification attempt was successful or not.
I had good intentions to train for this race so I could PR and also in hopes of making the Fort Bragg women’s team. However, it’s not clear that this is how they select their team. But I’ve completely lost interest anyway.
I really did have good intentions to train for this race. In fact, I even made a training program, and set a lofty goal.
In 2008 I ran the Army 10-miler in DC in 79 minutes. I thought since I was coming off the marathon, and if I implemented a program that included the right kind of speed work, I could knock out 75 minutes with moderate effort.
But as I say in the heading, the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry and in short, I didn’t train for this race at all. And I totally didn’t want to run it. The ONLY reason I ran this race was because I registered. A few months ago, I skipped a race I registered for and it really bothered me. Especially, since the reasons not to run my race really weren’t mine. So, I promised myself barring illness or injury I wouldn’t DNF another race. Even though I didn’t train at all I was going through another massive transition in my life, I showed up at the start line anyway.
The Race Itself…
…Or Whatever….
Even in the midst of all the runners, I was completely disinterested. Several people from work were also running this race, but I had trouble catching their motivation, or even their jitters.
“Whatever,” I thought as I walked to the start line, completely out of habit I wiggled my way up to the 8 minute per mile pace line, figuring there would be no way I could possibly run that fast. I didn’t even care.
I think Bragg fired a cannon or something to start the race, I don’t remember, I just started running when everyone else did.
This was a no headphones race, and because I was near to the front of the pack, it was crowded, and I was having trouble focusing. One of the things I enjoy most about running is the solitude, and this congested start was annoying me a little. Thankfully, it didn’t take long for it to thin out and had some space for myself to run. I guess deployments took a toll on this race, because it was not as crowded as when I ran it in the past.
Fort Bragg hosts a pretty good race. Everything is so organized! Water stations were great, and there were plenty of volunteers.
I just kept putting one foot in front of the other, and tried to stay on the 75-minute goal pace. I was really suprised to see so many female runners in race-mode! It was fantastic actually to be around so many other women who had goals! What was unfortunate was the stupid guys that were hitting on us, mid-race! Seriously, men, I'm running 7:30 minutes per mile...I do not have time to chat to you or listen to your comments about my body...and now, I think you are a loser for bothering me while I'm running.
Like most Army installations, Fort Bragg names it's housing areas and streets after famous battlefields and and military heros. It was weird to run past signs like Normandy, Cherbourg, St. Mere Eglise and Bastogne, knowing that I've actually run in those places in Europe. It was amazing to think that I have this in common with veteran Soldiers, although the circumstances are profoundly different. In many areas of post running cadences are piped over the loud speaker. This made the run kind of fun, especially since I didn't have my own music.
I was happy to hit the half-way point in good time and was ready to be done running around mile 7. I still didn't feel very interested in the race, and was trying to maintain focus on my pace. Runners, especially males, started getting competitive around Mile 8 and they began to pass me. I decided to up the ante a bit. I implemented some pace surge techniques I read about in Runner's World magazine and surged out of some corners and randomly increased my pace, to my surprise, these methods actually worked and I picked off a few runners ahead of me.
With a few small successes in my pocket around mile 9 I started to feel slightly interested in the race. I linked up with another and I cruised across the finish line in 78:09. This is a PR for me!
What was a little sad, was that I know my marathon split at 10 miles was faster than that, and I totally felt like I could pushed it out faster.
I guess the real victory in this situation is that I got back on the running horse. I seriously did not want to run this race, so much was going on in my life, and I almost sacked it. But, I tried to remember that running is apart of me and that through everything it's the constant in my life. No matter where I am or what I am doing, running is the same. It's my own space, my own time, when I'm just out there letting my thoughts go. It's a part of my day like eating, and it's where I do my best thinking and get in touch with the my strengths that are not so readily available. Running always helps me to discover that I am so much more than what is usually apparent. The PR is pretty great too!
My Future in Running...
...Or I need a friggin' plan....
I need to get some focus. I've not been running consistently at all and have been relying on Army PT for my general fitness. Any of my Army friends reading this, must know that this is not a good plan. I've not been inside a gym since moving back to the U.S. and I've got no focus, other than the upcoming 10k, for my running. I need to find a routine and get back into the swing of things soon, or just give it up altogether. Either way, I'm at a cross roads, and I need to sort it out soon.
In Summation: Recovering from Failure on Several Fronts=Sucks; PRs Without Trying Very Hard=Rock! What's Next?=Not Sure Yet; Boston Marathon=In my future?; NC Heat=Oppressive; My Friends=The Best Ever!; Faith in Mankind=A Raisin in the Sun
Upcoming Races...
July Races:
Ellwood City Ledger 10k...A Virtual Sprint!!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Success Is Counted Sweetest to Those Who Ne'er Succeed...
...Or...I hate everything and the horse it rode in on....
New River Marathon Race Report
Please be advised..there may be some swearing...
Please be advised..there may be some swearing...
So, massively delayed race report. First, it just took me awhile to sort myself out and I wanted to let some of the emotion from the disappointment fade so that I could take a more analytical look at what actually went wrong during the race.
The race weekend started off with a late arrival to New River after a long drive through some annoying Raleigh traffic jams, luckily I wasn't the driver. The proprietors of the Bed and Breakfast were clearly annoyed with the late arrival, because 'we have to get up early too, we're manning a water station." Cry me a river...I'm running 26.2 miles.
They met us on the porch, the male of the duo reeked of booze and greeted us with a gruff "You in the military?" And wanted to relive his 'glory' days in the 82nd. His stories sounded pretty fishy to me. Really, I just wanted to get to the room and get my head down. These people were weird and it was immediately obvious that there would not be a repeat performance at this B&B.
The race itself...
The race weekend started off with a late arrival to New River after a long drive through some annoying Raleigh traffic jams, luckily I wasn't the driver. The proprietors of the Bed and Breakfast were clearly annoyed with the late arrival, because 'we have to get up early too, we're manning a water station." Cry me a river...I'm running 26.2 miles.
They met us on the porch, the male of the duo reeked of booze and greeted us with a gruff "You in the military?" And wanted to relive his 'glory' days in the 82nd. His stories sounded pretty fishy to me. Really, I just wanted to get to the room and get my head down. These people were weird and it was immediately obvious that there would not be a repeat performance at this B&B.
The race itself...
Part 1 - En Boco Lupo...
...Or Tak tak tak...
...Or Tak tak tak...
In the Italian language En Boco Lupo means "in the mouth of the wolf" and is a phrase of good strength and luck. This was one of my phrases that I used to keep me mentally strong during the race. Not only is it a tough phrase, in another language, it makes me think of my time in Europe and everything I learned about life while living there. I miss it so much.
My race did start off En Boco Lupo. I felt great! Although it was shorter sleep than I would have planned, I slept well and got up feeling positive. The B&B duo served up a pretty good breakfast, some tedious conversation and led us to the start line. Even though I thought they were weird, I was looking forward to seeing the familiar faces of the B&B proprieters at miles 13 & 24.
This marathon was the smallest race I've ever attended. I didn't have to stand in line for my chip, race packet or porta-potty!? What?! I was already thinking that a Boston Qualifying time would also earn me a place in my age group.
The race directors delayed the start of the race by 15 minutes for late comers. Most of us racers that were ready to go were not a fan of this decision because it was only 35 degrees outside! Yup...my concerns of over-heating were unnecessary. In fact, I was wishing I had my shorty-running tights and a pair of gloves. I was literally freezing! Luckily I had one of my Army brown T's for my throw away shirt otherwise I would have really been a popsicle in my race tank and shorts.
At 7:45 about 300 runners gathered on the New River Bridge and waited for the starting gun....oh wait a minute...no starting gun, just a guy yelling 'GO' into a bullhorn. Yep That's as good as it gets in New River.
So we were off...I tried to keep in mind some pre-race advice: "Run your own race, and better to start slow and finish strong."
These well-time words were really important as I notoriously start off too fast. And trust me I wanted to go fast, not only was I excited, but I was C-O-L-D! When I checked my GPS in the first half-mile I was running a 7:45. This was too fast, and I slowed it right down to 8:23 per mile...the BQ race-pace.
I tried to run a smart race. I knew that there was a pretty significant hill around mile 17 and I certainly wanted to conserve energy before I got to it, but I knew the hill was going to slow me down as I got a taste of a pretty large hill in the first two miles. So, I decided to allow myself to run a little faster than I had originally planned to put some time in the bank, so to speak. I tried to maintain between 8:18 and 8:23. This was totally manageable and I felt fantastic.
I was running well and I actually felt happy. The music on my iPod was perfect (thank you contributors!) I felt really good at the 10k mark, and aside from accidentally getting gatorade up my nose, things were going really well.
I breezed through the half-way point still feeling well, however irritated that the water station only had gatorade and no water. Also, there was no food at the half-way. I was expecting some hammer packs or at least a sliced banana. But no joy. So I just kept running.
Miles 14, 15 and 16 were still pretty good, I was running well and happy.
As predicted the hill at mile 17 reared it's head. I started it up it, optimistic, it was a long one but I could make it to the top and I put my head down and started thinking of my second motivational phrase, unbreakable....
Part 2 - Unbreakable...
...Or Unbreakable My Arse.....
So, I started up the hill, thinking over and over, unbreakable, en boco lupo, unbreakable, etc etc etc....and created a steady effort to make my way to the top. Just as I could see the crest, the course hooked right and runners were led up a dirt path. I thought, 'wow! Pay-dirt! we don't have to continue to the top. Ha! Hill? What hill?' Well, my friends, I spoke too soon. The path hooked right up a little pea-gravel road and I was faced with a virtual mountain. It didn't appear to be very long, but it was extremely steep. Unbreakable, I thought, and tried to mind my form and get myself up the 'hill' (read mountain) with short, quick steps.
Over all this time I had managed to stay on pace, and was still optmistic for a BQ. I new I had a little time in the bank and because of my 3 in 1 training I was determined to control the last 10ks of the race.
A sort of informal pace group had formed, and I had been running with a set of sisters that I affectionately referred to as Thing 1 and Thing 2, two chatty older gentlemen and another guy with a buzz cut wearing those icky 5-finger shoes.
Well, this hill (read mountain) busted the group up. Thing 1 pulled away from Thing 2 and 5-finger guy started walking as soon as he saw the mountain. The chatty Cathy's clammed up and tried to push through.
I also chose to persevere through the hill (read mountain), and despite my pace I was determined to keep running. I passed a guy who had succumbed to walking and he said "good job you got this."
I continued to run, but everyone in front of me was beginning to walk.
My legs were in serious pain. Literally, it was painful to run, my quads were screaming and my calves were beginning to ache too. The pea gravel was unstable beneath my feet and keeping my form steady was creating a lot of extra work for my body. I pulled up behind Thing 1 who had also decided to walk. I checked my garmin and decided, based on the pace, that it would be wiser for me to try to power-walk up this hill and conserve my muscles, I still have at least 8 miles to go!
So for the first time ever, I walked during a race. So much for Unbreakable.
I tried not to get too hung up on it, because I was trying to convince myself that it was for the greater good. Once I reached to top I picked the pace back up and hoped to relocate my pace as I coasted down the hill. My legs were so stiff, it was unreal how difficult it was to even run downhill. I noticed as I started to ascend the next hill that my downhill portion seeme awfully short. In fact, it was about half the size. My legs were screaming but once again I tried to continue to run up the hill. I tried to take short, quick steps, but my feet were sliding around on top of the pea-gravel and dust. It was causing my legs to cramp. Typically, I don't get cramps, but my right quadricep felt like it was completely twisted and my calves were both seriously cramping. It was so painful I couldn't believe it. I tried to stretch my calves out, no joy. I tried to alter my gait and foot strike, but that didn't help either. I was also determined not to stop running. At this point I had adopted a qualify or die trying mentality. I didn't care if my muscles tore right in half, I was going to keep running. Unfortunately, my pace was utterly shot and I just could not force my body to move faster. I couldn't wait to move downhill, little did I know that the downhill would be worse.
Thing 2 had caught back up to Thing 1 and they regained their paces and started zipping down the hill. I tried to follow suit, but pain exploded through my legs with every step. It was an utter nightmare. Again, I just tried to push myself down the hill, promising myself that the muscles would unseize and I could regain normal running. About half way down the hill the pain started to subside, and I was just finding a pace, it was about 18.5 miles and here, the race organizers put a water/food station. NO ONE used this water station. Literally. First, it was tucked up along a bank so you would have to run up a little slope to get to it. After trudging up the dueling mountains, no one wanted to go there. Second, everyone was just starting to regain a pace, it was not the time to introduce another disruption. Despite the fact that I was thirsty, I did not stop at this water station.
I saw Thing 1 and Thing 2 breeze down the hill and seemed like they were about 5 minutes ahead of me in an intant.
I was still in serious pain and every step was agony, but after running up those hills, I wasn't going to stop running.
I expected to start feeling bad around mile 20, but at mile 19 I was completly disgusted with the entire race, and was even in tears at one point. Totally pathetic. After being so optimistic, I can't believe those hills squashed me. At mile twenty, I just wanted to 'just get there.'
Part 3 - Just Get There
...Or...So much for controlling the last 10k of this race....
I really had plan to own this portion of the race. I trained for this, both mentally and physically and I was feeling pretty confident when I set off, but now I had to struggle. I made three goals when I set off, just to try to quell disappointment if I didn't BQ. So first, BQ; Second, Personal Record; Third, at least better than my last race. With this in mind, I left my hopes for a BQ on the second hill, but with 10ks still in front of me I was still hopeful for a PR, but I had to maintain at least a 9-minute mile, at that point I was about a 9:12 per mile, so I had to pick it up.
At this point, I was pretty pissed off and I just could not get my legs to move. They were so tight and I just couldn't get my body to move the way I wanted. I was mentally pushing myself, but I couldn't get my body to cooperate. I was so annoyed!
Tired and hungry, I grabbed a Hammer gel and some water at the next station. It was the most delicious thing I had ever tasted it was honey-lemony and I loved it! I wanted a whole handful of them so I could take them home and spread them on toast! A little happier I plodded on...the next two miles were pretty painful and I was having trouble maintaining my new pace. I was counting the steps until mile 24 where I could get a drink and hopefully some more of this yummy gel.
I went through the water station at mile 24, and the bumbling idiots had no water, only gatorade. I did not want to wash my gel down with gatorade. I tore the gel open only to find that it wasnt honey-lemony goodness but some icky, mocha-espresso abomination! It was disgusting, but I didn't dare spit it out, because i didn't want brown goo all over my nice running outfit.
The next two miles were basically hell, just after the water station I was still hopeful to PR. But I just couldn't maintain the pace no matter how hard I tried to convince my body to run faster it just wouldn't. I fell off the the 9-minute per mile pace and just couldn't pick it back up. I just could not get my body to move faster. I tried all kinds of tricks even resorted to pretending it was an Army Physical Fitness Test. As my PR slipped out of my reach it was all I could not to succumb to walking again. I was so depressed. It was even worse when I hooked a left turn toward the finish line into a lumpy field. It was really difficult to keep my footing and I completely lost interest in a PR or almost even finishing at all. I really, really wanted to walk.
But, I didn't and pushed through to the finish line in 4:02.
Massive. Massive. Disappointment.
It took forever for the volunteer to remove my timing chip and hand me my medal, which was totally lame.
An aside about the medal: First, it's a hand crafted medal made out of wood. It looks like kids in the highschool shop made it. That's not so bad, I know that this type of wood and craft is local to the area...but here is what made the medal lame: It said New River Marathon, Half-Marthon & 5k. Really? Really? New River? The 5k runners and the Marathon runners get the same medal? Bad form, New River. Blah.
I hobbled toward the car, because my legs were totally seizing up. Walking was difficult, standing was exruciating and sitting wasn't that great either.
Oh yeah. On top of everything else. I was crying. Yep. Full-on sobbing, alligator tears. Mostly tears of self-pity, loss, and a bit of pain. Totally humiliating.
My recovery was in short excruciating. I frankly have never been in so much pain. I had a quick massage at the finish. Stretched and tried to keep my system flushed with water. But if I sat for more than 15-20 minutes at a time my legs would completely lock up. I fidgeted all evening through dinner and a movie. I fidgeted all through the night and despite obvious exhaustion managed to get very little sleep. I fidgeted the whole 3-plus hour ride back to Fayetteville. Sunday evening I was still in bit of pain. Basically, I was miserable. I didn't feel like eating, and my muscles were just wrecked. Walking was still difficult and I couldn't get comfortable in bed, in fact, I had to take a sleep aid so I could rest. This, coupled with my sadness over my failure was pure misery.
I felt like I wasted the last 18-weeks. It was so difficult training in the German winter, the time I sacrificed, maintaining training during my move, maintaining training during my transition back to the U.S. and my new routines. Although I completed the race I felt I had very little to show for my effort and really had nothing to be proud of, even my medal was lame.
Looking back on the race. I really think it was those hills that ate my lunch. My program did include hill training, but I couldn't mimic what was on the course. I really don't think I started off too fast, I was hydrated enough and the weather was basically ideal. I just couldn't make my body conquer those hills fast enough.
I am still extremely disappointed that I didn't meet at least one of my goals. But I know that running the Boston Marathon is still in my future, so I'm on the hunt for another marathon, most likely in the Autumn, if my job cooperates. Suggestions?!
Before I even ran the New River Marathon I registered for the Fort Bragg Army Birthday 10-Miler. I was hoping that if things were to go awry, I would have a new race to look forward to, and if they didn't I wouldn't over-celebrate. Well, this race is tomorrow and I'm fairly ill-prepared. Since the New River Marathon there have been quite a few unforeseen changes in my life. Also, my job became quite busy and I find myself in a transition phase once again. Still feeling the sting of failure, more transition, upswing in my workload and oppressive North Carolina heat have drastically curbed my running. Although I've managed to log a few miles I haven't really done any of the speed work necessary to PR this race. Intially I was hopeful to run 75, but right now, that doesn't seem feasable. So we will see, but there is definitely more racing in my future and it looks like MeLLiSSa's Foot Notes is not yet defunct.
Oh and lest I forget my loyal run supporters. Thanks so much for everything! You know who you are!
Here's to better luck next time.....
In Summation: Failure=Sucks; Massive Hills=Soul Destroying; Boston Marathon=In my future; NC Heat=Oppressive; One Medal for All Races=Not Very Nice; My Friends=The Best Ever!; Faith in Mankind=Non-existent
Upcoming Races...
June Races:
Fort Bragg Army Birthday 10-Miler
July Races:
Ellwood City Ledger 10k...A Virtual Sprint!!
So we were off...I tried to keep in mind some pre-race advice: "Run your own race, and better to start slow and finish strong."
These well-time words were really important as I notoriously start off too fast. And trust me I wanted to go fast, not only was I excited, but I was C-O-L-D! When I checked my GPS in the first half-mile I was running a 7:45. This was too fast, and I slowed it right down to 8:23 per mile...the BQ race-pace.
I tried to run a smart race. I knew that there was a pretty significant hill around mile 17 and I certainly wanted to conserve energy before I got to it, but I knew the hill was going to slow me down as I got a taste of a pretty large hill in the first two miles. So, I decided to allow myself to run a little faster than I had originally planned to put some time in the bank, so to speak. I tried to maintain between 8:18 and 8:23. This was totally manageable and I felt fantastic.
I was running well and I actually felt happy. The music on my iPod was perfect (thank you contributors!) I felt really good at the 10k mark, and aside from accidentally getting gatorade up my nose, things were going really well.
I breezed through the half-way point still feeling well, however irritated that the water station only had gatorade and no water. Also, there was no food at the half-way. I was expecting some hammer packs or at least a sliced banana. But no joy. So I just kept running.
Miles 14, 15 and 16 were still pretty good, I was running well and happy.
As predicted the hill at mile 17 reared it's head. I started it up it, optimistic, it was a long one but I could make it to the top and I put my head down and started thinking of my second motivational phrase, unbreakable....
Part 2 - Unbreakable...
...Or Unbreakable My Arse.....
So, I started up the hill, thinking over and over, unbreakable, en boco lupo, unbreakable, etc etc etc....and created a steady effort to make my way to the top. Just as I could see the crest, the course hooked right and runners were led up a dirt path. I thought, 'wow! Pay-dirt! we don't have to continue to the top. Ha! Hill? What hill?' Well, my friends, I spoke too soon. The path hooked right up a little pea-gravel road and I was faced with a virtual mountain. It didn't appear to be very long, but it was extremely steep. Unbreakable, I thought, and tried to mind my form and get myself up the 'hill' (read mountain) with short, quick steps.
Over all this time I had managed to stay on pace, and was still optmistic for a BQ. I new I had a little time in the bank and because of my 3 in 1 training I was determined to control the last 10ks of the race.
A sort of informal pace group had formed, and I had been running with a set of sisters that I affectionately referred to as Thing 1 and Thing 2, two chatty older gentlemen and another guy with a buzz cut wearing those icky 5-finger shoes.
Well, this hill (read mountain) busted the group up. Thing 1 pulled away from Thing 2 and 5-finger guy started walking as soon as he saw the mountain. The chatty Cathy's clammed up and tried to push through.
I also chose to persevere through the hill (read mountain), and despite my pace I was determined to keep running. I passed a guy who had succumbed to walking and he said "good job you got this."
I continued to run, but everyone in front of me was beginning to walk.
My legs were in serious pain. Literally, it was painful to run, my quads were screaming and my calves were beginning to ache too. The pea gravel was unstable beneath my feet and keeping my form steady was creating a lot of extra work for my body. I pulled up behind Thing 1 who had also decided to walk. I checked my garmin and decided, based on the pace, that it would be wiser for me to try to power-walk up this hill and conserve my muscles, I still have at least 8 miles to go!
So for the first time ever, I walked during a race. So much for Unbreakable.
I tried not to get too hung up on it, because I was trying to convince myself that it was for the greater good. Once I reached to top I picked the pace back up and hoped to relocate my pace as I coasted down the hill. My legs were so stiff, it was unreal how difficult it was to even run downhill. I noticed as I started to ascend the next hill that my downhill portion seeme awfully short. In fact, it was about half the size. My legs were screaming but once again I tried to continue to run up the hill. I tried to take short, quick steps, but my feet were sliding around on top of the pea-gravel and dust. It was causing my legs to cramp. Typically, I don't get cramps, but my right quadricep felt like it was completely twisted and my calves were both seriously cramping. It was so painful I couldn't believe it. I tried to stretch my calves out, no joy. I tried to alter my gait and foot strike, but that didn't help either. I was also determined not to stop running. At this point I had adopted a qualify or die trying mentality. I didn't care if my muscles tore right in half, I was going to keep running. Unfortunately, my pace was utterly shot and I just could not force my body to move faster. I couldn't wait to move downhill, little did I know that the downhill would be worse.
Thing 2 had caught back up to Thing 1 and they regained their paces and started zipping down the hill. I tried to follow suit, but pain exploded through my legs with every step. It was an utter nightmare. Again, I just tried to push myself down the hill, promising myself that the muscles would unseize and I could regain normal running. About half way down the hill the pain started to subside, and I was just finding a pace, it was about 18.5 miles and here, the race organizers put a water/food station. NO ONE used this water station. Literally. First, it was tucked up along a bank so you would have to run up a little slope to get to it. After trudging up the dueling mountains, no one wanted to go there. Second, everyone was just starting to regain a pace, it was not the time to introduce another disruption. Despite the fact that I was thirsty, I did not stop at this water station.
I saw Thing 1 and Thing 2 breeze down the hill and seemed like they were about 5 minutes ahead of me in an intant.
I was still in serious pain and every step was agony, but after running up those hills, I wasn't going to stop running.
I expected to start feeling bad around mile 20, but at mile 19 I was completly disgusted with the entire race, and was even in tears at one point. Totally pathetic. After being so optimistic, I can't believe those hills squashed me. At mile twenty, I just wanted to 'just get there.'
Part 3 - Just Get There
...Or...So much for controlling the last 10k of this race....
I really had plan to own this portion of the race. I trained for this, both mentally and physically and I was feeling pretty confident when I set off, but now I had to struggle. I made three goals when I set off, just to try to quell disappointment if I didn't BQ. So first, BQ; Second, Personal Record; Third, at least better than my last race. With this in mind, I left my hopes for a BQ on the second hill, but with 10ks still in front of me I was still hopeful for a PR, but I had to maintain at least a 9-minute mile, at that point I was about a 9:12 per mile, so I had to pick it up.
At this point, I was pretty pissed off and I just could not get my legs to move. They were so tight and I just couldn't get my body to move the way I wanted. I was mentally pushing myself, but I couldn't get my body to cooperate. I was so annoyed!
Tired and hungry, I grabbed a Hammer gel and some water at the next station. It was the most delicious thing I had ever tasted it was honey-lemony and I loved it! I wanted a whole handful of them so I could take them home and spread them on toast! A little happier I plodded on...the next two miles were pretty painful and I was having trouble maintaining my new pace. I was counting the steps until mile 24 where I could get a drink and hopefully some more of this yummy gel.
I went through the water station at mile 24, and the bumbling idiots had no water, only gatorade. I did not want to wash my gel down with gatorade. I tore the gel open only to find that it wasnt honey-lemony goodness but some icky, mocha-espresso abomination! It was disgusting, but I didn't dare spit it out, because i didn't want brown goo all over my nice running outfit.
The next two miles were basically hell, just after the water station I was still hopeful to PR. But I just couldn't maintain the pace no matter how hard I tried to convince my body to run faster it just wouldn't. I fell off the the 9-minute per mile pace and just couldn't pick it back up. I just could not get my body to move faster. I tried all kinds of tricks even resorted to pretending it was an Army Physical Fitness Test. As my PR slipped out of my reach it was all I could not to succumb to walking again. I was so depressed. It was even worse when I hooked a left turn toward the finish line into a lumpy field. It was really difficult to keep my footing and I completely lost interest in a PR or almost even finishing at all. I really, really wanted to walk.
But, I didn't and pushed through to the finish line in 4:02.
Massive. Massive. Disappointment.
It took forever for the volunteer to remove my timing chip and hand me my medal, which was totally lame.
An aside about the medal: First, it's a hand crafted medal made out of wood. It looks like kids in the highschool shop made it. That's not so bad, I know that this type of wood and craft is local to the area...but here is what made the medal lame: It said New River Marathon, Half-Marthon & 5k. Really? Really? New River? The 5k runners and the Marathon runners get the same medal? Bad form, New River. Blah.
I hobbled toward the car, because my legs were totally seizing up. Walking was difficult, standing was exruciating and sitting wasn't that great either.
Oh yeah. On top of everything else. I was crying. Yep. Full-on sobbing, alligator tears. Mostly tears of self-pity, loss, and a bit of pain. Totally humiliating.
My recovery was in short excruciating. I frankly have never been in so much pain. I had a quick massage at the finish. Stretched and tried to keep my system flushed with water. But if I sat for more than 15-20 minutes at a time my legs would completely lock up. I fidgeted all evening through dinner and a movie. I fidgeted all through the night and despite obvious exhaustion managed to get very little sleep. I fidgeted the whole 3-plus hour ride back to Fayetteville. Sunday evening I was still in bit of pain. Basically, I was miserable. I didn't feel like eating, and my muscles were just wrecked. Walking was still difficult and I couldn't get comfortable in bed, in fact, I had to take a sleep aid so I could rest. This, coupled with my sadness over my failure was pure misery.
I felt like I wasted the last 18-weeks. It was so difficult training in the German winter, the time I sacrificed, maintaining training during my move, maintaining training during my transition back to the U.S. and my new routines. Although I completed the race I felt I had very little to show for my effort and really had nothing to be proud of, even my medal was lame.
Looking back on the race. I really think it was those hills that ate my lunch. My program did include hill training, but I couldn't mimic what was on the course. I really don't think I started off too fast, I was hydrated enough and the weather was basically ideal. I just couldn't make my body conquer those hills fast enough.
I am still extremely disappointed that I didn't meet at least one of my goals. But I know that running the Boston Marathon is still in my future, so I'm on the hunt for another marathon, most likely in the Autumn, if my job cooperates. Suggestions?!
Before I even ran the New River Marathon I registered for the Fort Bragg Army Birthday 10-Miler. I was hoping that if things were to go awry, I would have a new race to look forward to, and if they didn't I wouldn't over-celebrate. Well, this race is tomorrow and I'm fairly ill-prepared. Since the New River Marathon there have been quite a few unforeseen changes in my life. Also, my job became quite busy and I find myself in a transition phase once again. Still feeling the sting of failure, more transition, upswing in my workload and oppressive North Carolina heat have drastically curbed my running. Although I've managed to log a few miles I haven't really done any of the speed work necessary to PR this race. Intially I was hopeful to run 75, but right now, that doesn't seem feasable. So we will see, but there is definitely more racing in my future and it looks like MeLLiSSa's Foot Notes is not yet defunct.
Oh and lest I forget my loyal run supporters. Thanks so much for everything! You know who you are!
Here's to better luck next time.....
In Summation: Failure=Sucks; Massive Hills=Soul Destroying; Boston Marathon=In my future; NC Heat=Oppressive; One Medal for All Races=Not Very Nice; My Friends=The Best Ever!; Faith in Mankind=Non-existent
Upcoming Races...
June Races:
Fort Bragg Army Birthday 10-Miler
July Races:
Ellwood City Ledger 10k...A Virtual Sprint!!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Fear Is s Poor Chisel to Carve Out Your Tomorrow...
Or...The Marathon is tomorrow and I'm crapping my pants
Well, I skipped too blogs...frankly there wasn't much to say. I ran my last 12-miler in the rain and ended up with soggy shoes.
My last long run of the program was last Saturday, it was an uneventful 8 miles that didn't even include a barking dog.
My race is tomorrow! So far, I've been feeling good, and I've only missed 3 runs out of the 16-week program and these were typically due to travel. I'm feeling pretty accomplished already that I've managed to stick with the program during some massive transitions in my life.
Right now, I am just trying to keep a positive attitude and picture myself successful. My biggest problem is feeling sorry for myself. Once I start to feel bad, or if something goes a little wrong during the race, I lurch into a depression. So I need to try to avoid this and work to recover quickly from any setbacks. I've done a little reading on how elite athletes deal with these sorts of things during their races and apparently they use motivational key phrases to help keep them mentally focused. According to what I've read, it's wise to pick more than one to help through various situations. I have three...suddenly I'm shy about sharing them, so I guess I will keep them to my self.
Although I am nervous, I am looking forward to the race. It seems hard to believe that I'm racing tomorrow. I am excited to see about the outcome and what I can make happen and what I can make my body accomplish. Also, I am excited to see how I will feel regardless of the outcome. As I mentioned in a previous blog, I believe running more than twenty miles totally changes your life. I've gotten so many positive comments from my friends and people I meet about my training program. While I really appreciate this admiration, I don't think running makes me a better or more interesting person. Running has enriched my life in so many ways...it's challenged me, comforted me and healed me in so many ways. I don't think that I am a good runner because a me...I think I've become a better me because I am a runner. Running has allowed me so much self-discovery and even I've been surprised of how much more of me that exists than is readily available. Bowerman was correct when he said that finding inspiration that to become good at the observed past time of running will reflect in the other observed past time...life!
So wish me luck...and look forward to my race report! I hope to finish it in a timely manner!
In Summation: Race=TOMORROW!; Nerves=OK; Running=Apart of me.
Well, I skipped too blogs...frankly there wasn't much to say. I ran my last 12-miler in the rain and ended up with soggy shoes.
My last long run of the program was last Saturday, it was an uneventful 8 miles that didn't even include a barking dog.
My race is tomorrow! So far, I've been feeling good, and I've only missed 3 runs out of the 16-week program and these were typically due to travel. I'm feeling pretty accomplished already that I've managed to stick with the program during some massive transitions in my life.
Right now, I am just trying to keep a positive attitude and picture myself successful. My biggest problem is feeling sorry for myself. Once I start to feel bad, or if something goes a little wrong during the race, I lurch into a depression. So I need to try to avoid this and work to recover quickly from any setbacks. I've done a little reading on how elite athletes deal with these sorts of things during their races and apparently they use motivational key phrases to help keep them mentally focused. According to what I've read, it's wise to pick more than one to help through various situations. I have three...suddenly I'm shy about sharing them, so I guess I will keep them to my self.
Although I am nervous, I am looking forward to the race. It seems hard to believe that I'm racing tomorrow. I am excited to see about the outcome and what I can make happen and what I can make my body accomplish. Also, I am excited to see how I will feel regardless of the outcome. As I mentioned in a previous blog, I believe running more than twenty miles totally changes your life. I've gotten so many positive comments from my friends and people I meet about my training program. While I really appreciate this admiration, I don't think running makes me a better or more interesting person. Running has enriched my life in so many ways...it's challenged me, comforted me and healed me in so many ways. I don't think that I am a good runner because a me...I think I've become a better me because I am a runner. Running has allowed me so much self-discovery and even I've been surprised of how much more of me that exists than is readily available. Bowerman was correct when he said that finding inspiration that to become good at the observed past time of running will reflect in the other observed past time...life!
So wish me luck...and look forward to my race report! I hope to finish it in a timely manner!
In Summation: Race=TOMORROW!; Nerves=OK; Running=Apart of me.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
20, 20, 20 Miles to Go....I Wanna Be Sedated....
...Or Please Bury Me With It ..
This run was brought you by Modest Mouse..
The week of 16 April marked the completion of my last 20-mile run in my New River Marathon training program. Frankly, I couldn't be happier, that 20-mile run looming over my head was really bringing me down. I ended up running it on Sunday, because in case you haven't heard, my area in North Carolina was seriously affected by tornadoes. While my neighborhood, or running routes were not touched by these twisters, the weather-lady advised to stay inside, so I did. I simply postponed my run until Sunday.
Unfortunately, on Sunday, I also had to report to Fortress Bragg at 1530 (3:30 pm for you non-military types) and leave my life as a lady of leisure behind.
During the twenty-miler, I decided to do what running guru Hal Higdon calls 3/1 training.
You can read more about it here,
http://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/advancedint.htm
However, briefly, it means you run the first 3/4 of your run at your regular pace and the last quarter faster. So around the 5-mile mark I picked it up, I continued to run faster until I was nearly at race pace by the end of the run. I set a goal to finish the twenty miles in 3 hours and 10 minutes, and I made it! Barely, but I did. This was a huge confidence boost for me, because as you've read in previous posts, I've seem to have lost my speed mojo. I also wanted to do something a bit quicker since I DNFed the Raleigh Rocks 1/2 Marathon a couple of weeks ago.
Basically, the run went pretty well and I was happy with the pace, performance and recovery. Mostly I am pleased that I don't have to run that far again until race day.
What I am displeased about is going back to work. What a total bummer.
In summation: Last 20-miler=Good; 3/1 Training=Success; Work=Blah; Seriously Late Blogs=Slightly Embarrassing; Punk-Themed Runs=AWESOME ;)
This run was brought you by Modest Mouse..
The week of 16 April marked the completion of my last 20-mile run in my New River Marathon training program. Frankly, I couldn't be happier, that 20-mile run looming over my head was really bringing me down. I ended up running it on Sunday, because in case you haven't heard, my area in North Carolina was seriously affected by tornadoes. While my neighborhood, or running routes were not touched by these twisters, the weather-lady advised to stay inside, so I did. I simply postponed my run until Sunday.
Unfortunately, on Sunday, I also had to report to Fortress Bragg at 1530 (3:30 pm for you non-military types) and leave my life as a lady of leisure behind.
During the twenty-miler, I decided to do what running guru Hal Higdon calls 3/1 training.
You can read more about it here,
http://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/advancedint.htm
However, briefly, it means you run the first 3/4 of your run at your regular pace and the last quarter faster. So around the 5-mile mark I picked it up, I continued to run faster until I was nearly at race pace by the end of the run. I set a goal to finish the twenty miles in 3 hours and 10 minutes, and I made it! Barely, but I did. This was a huge confidence boost for me, because as you've read in previous posts, I've seem to have lost my speed mojo. I also wanted to do something a bit quicker since I DNFed the Raleigh Rocks 1/2 Marathon a couple of weeks ago.
Basically, the run went pretty well and I was happy with the pace, performance and recovery. Mostly I am pleased that I don't have to run that far again until race day.
What I am displeased about is going back to work. What a total bummer.
In summation: Last 20-miler=Good; 3/1 Training=Success; Work=Blah; Seriously Late Blogs=Slightly Embarrassing; Punk-Themed Runs=AWESOME ;)
Friday, April 15, 2011
What the What? An Interim Blog...
...Or stuff I forgot to say yesterday...
PART 1...
...The DNF
I realized today, while running 10-miles, that I glossed over somethings in my haste to get my blog posted before the end of the week.
I never discussed my DNF. For those who haven't raced, DNF is an acronym for Did Not Finish. Before I moved from Germany to North Carolina, I registered for the 'Raleigh Rocks Half Marathon' on April 7. I did not complete this race. I didn't even bother to get myself out of the bed to get to the race, in fact, I ran the 12 miles my training program prescribed on Saturday. So I did accomplish the running, but totally ignored the race. I feel pretty badly about not completing something that I signed up to do. But I didn't realize how far I would have to travel to run the race. It probably would have meant a 430 wake up, and I just couldn't be bothered. So, now I've logged my very first, ever, DNF, out of pure laziness.
PART 2...
...The elusive 8:23 pace
I lost my pace. I can't find it anywhere. I've been desperate to regain speed since moving back to America. I've been working really hard, but I can not run any faster than an 8:30 for any distance at all. Today, I made a serious attempt at keeping the pace for 10-miles. I wasn't sure that I could maintain the pace for 10 miles, but I was hoping for at least 6-8. Yeah right! I couldn't even keep it for three miles. Anytime the route went up hill my pace slowed even more. Around mile 6, I gave up even trying and just tried to finish the run strong. The Garmin says I averaged a 9:03 minute per mile.
Awful. This is Awful .
I've been trying to retrace my training and see where my speed got lost, but I can't really figure it out. I have skipped minimal workouts. I know I skipped a speed work out, back in Germany and I skipped the 10-miler I was meant to run while en route back to the states. This shouldn't have such a drastic effect now. The only thing I can think of is the mileage is just wearing on me.
Currently, my plan is just to keep plugging through, and hopefully during the taper, my speed will resurface. If not, it looks like an Autumn Marathon is in my future...with this comes stricter qualification for Boston.
PART 3...
...Because it wasn't hard enough already
Apparently, despite it's stiff qualifications times, the Boston Marathon is still just too crowded. In order to combat it, the Boston Athletic Association made the standards more difficult. So, if I don't reach the 3:40 this year, next year, instead of running 3:45, it will still be 3:40. Not really that big of deal. But the chiefs up at BAA also took away the 59-second rule. This simply means, that you are good until 3:41. So, you can run 3:40:59 and still qualify. Not anymore, 3:40:01, will not allow you entry to the race. Sigh.
PART 4
...The Last 20-Miler
I am scheduled to run my last 20-miler on Saturday. Unfortunately, it looks like the weather is not in my favor. Allegedly we are supposed to have severe thunderstorms coupled with tornado warnings. I guess I will wake up tomorrow and see what happens. If not, I will shoot for Sunday.
PART 5
...Rejoining the Work Force
I start work on again on Monday. Booo. Not my favorite topic.
In Summation: DNF=Disappointing; DNF Because of Laziness=Embarrassing; 8:23=Where are you?; Last 20-miler=Sigh; Bad Weather=Due...I've been lucky; Going back to Work=Blah
PART 1...
...The DNF
I realized today, while running 10-miles, that I glossed over somethings in my haste to get my blog posted before the end of the week.
I never discussed my DNF. For those who haven't raced, DNF is an acronym for Did Not Finish. Before I moved from Germany to North Carolina, I registered for the 'Raleigh Rocks Half Marathon' on April 7. I did not complete this race. I didn't even bother to get myself out of the bed to get to the race, in fact, I ran the 12 miles my training program prescribed on Saturday. So I did accomplish the running, but totally ignored the race. I feel pretty badly about not completing something that I signed up to do. But I didn't realize how far I would have to travel to run the race. It probably would have meant a 430 wake up, and I just couldn't be bothered. So, now I've logged my very first, ever, DNF, out of pure laziness.
PART 2...
...The elusive 8:23 pace
I lost my pace. I can't find it anywhere. I've been desperate to regain speed since moving back to America. I've been working really hard, but I can not run any faster than an 8:30 for any distance at all. Today, I made a serious attempt at keeping the pace for 10-miles. I wasn't sure that I could maintain the pace for 10 miles, but I was hoping for at least 6-8. Yeah right! I couldn't even keep it for three miles. Anytime the route went up hill my pace slowed even more. Around mile 6, I gave up even trying and just tried to finish the run strong. The Garmin says I averaged a 9:03 minute per mile.
Awful. This is Awful .
I've been trying to retrace my training and see where my speed got lost, but I can't really figure it out. I have skipped minimal workouts. I know I skipped a speed work out, back in Germany and I skipped the 10-miler I was meant to run while en route back to the states. This shouldn't have such a drastic effect now. The only thing I can think of is the mileage is just wearing on me.
Currently, my plan is just to keep plugging through, and hopefully during the taper, my speed will resurface. If not, it looks like an Autumn Marathon is in my future...with this comes stricter qualification for Boston.
PART 3...
...Because it wasn't hard enough already
Apparently, despite it's stiff qualifications times, the Boston Marathon is still just too crowded. In order to combat it, the Boston Athletic Association made the standards more difficult. So, if I don't reach the 3:40 this year, next year, instead of running 3:45, it will still be 3:40. Not really that big of deal. But the chiefs up at BAA also took away the 59-second rule. This simply means, that you are good until 3:41. So, you can run 3:40:59 and still qualify. Not anymore, 3:40:01, will not allow you entry to the race. Sigh.
PART 4
...The Last 20-Miler
I am scheduled to run my last 20-miler on Saturday. Unfortunately, it looks like the weather is not in my favor. Allegedly we are supposed to have severe thunderstorms coupled with tornado warnings. I guess I will wake up tomorrow and see what happens. If not, I will shoot for Sunday.
PART 5
...Rejoining the Work Force
I start work on again on Monday. Booo. Not my favorite topic.
In Summation: DNF=Disappointing; DNF Because of Laziness=Embarrassing; 8:23=Where are you?; Last 20-miler=Sigh; Bad Weather=Due...I've been lucky; Going back to Work=Blah
Thursday, April 14, 2011
I'm Sick to Death of Running
...Or Humans Were Made to Run...Alberto Salazar
This week's running was pretty insignificant.
Basically, I'm bored of running, it's becoming a bit of a chore. I am working really hard trying to stay motivated, however it's not really working. All I have been managing to do is to over-indulge on all types of food, and eat my weight in candy. This is clearly NOT in my training program. I'm just so irritated with running that the opposite of running is all I want to do.
I am still missing my gym and core work, but can't be bothered to drive on post to visit the gym. Basically this move has totally disrupted my routine and I'm doing little to rectify it. I figure I will attempt to find a routine once I get back to to work, which, unfortunately is next week.
Saturday's run was a taper 12-miler. It was nothing really to write home about, I got out and ran the 12 miles. The fact is, that I'm suffering from major running ennui. I just am so blase about it, I don't know how to recover, or to find the motivation to carry me through to the end of the training.
Je suis si fatigué de courir, j'ai courir l'ennui sérieux. ..Je ne sait pas si je jamais trouverai ma motivation encore. Je manque mon Europe.
Next Week's Training: Mo=5; Tu=10; We=5; Th= 8x800; Fr=10; Sa=20
In Summation: Running=Ennui; Motivation=Nil; Last 20-miler of the program=Welcome; Blog Procrastination=Par for the course
Derek Clayton in The Masters of the Marathon
Humans Were Made to Run...Alberto Salazar...
This week's running was pretty insignificant.
Basically, I'm bored of running, it's becoming a bit of a chore. I am working really hard trying to stay motivated, however it's not really working. All I have been managing to do is to over-indulge on all types of food, and eat my weight in candy. This is clearly NOT in my training program. I'm just so irritated with running that the opposite of running is all I want to do.
I am still missing my gym and core work, but can't be bothered to drive on post to visit the gym. Basically this move has totally disrupted my routine and I'm doing little to rectify it. I figure I will attempt to find a routine once I get back to to work, which, unfortunately is next week.
Saturday's run was a taper 12-miler. It was nothing really to write home about, I got out and ran the 12 miles. The fact is, that I'm suffering from major running ennui. I just am so blase about it, I don't know how to recover, or to find the motivation to carry me through to the end of the training.
I am trying to remember these words from Derek Clayton, Australian long-distance runner, "I don't think you can become an outstanding runner unless you get a certain amount of enjoyment out of the suffering. You have to enjoy absorbing it, controlling it and—ultimately—overcoming it."
So far, no dice.
Je suis si fatigué de courir, j'ai courir l'ennui sérieux. ..Je ne sait pas si je jamais trouverai ma motivation encore. Je manque mon Europe.
Next Week's Training: Mo=5; Tu=10; We=5; Th= 8x800; Fr=10; Sa=20
In Summation: Running=Ennui; Motivation=Nil; Last 20-miler of the program=Welcome; Blog Procrastination=Par for the course
Derek Clayton in The Masters of the Marathon
Humans Were Made to Run...Alberto Salazar...
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
20-12-20...Not My Measurements, But My Recent Mileage
...Or I'm Three Weeks Behind on My Blogging...
Since I'm so far behind on my blogging I've decided against posting three separate blogs to catch up, but to divide this post into three sections. This goes against my OCD-like nature, but I do this for your reading pleasure. I hope you appreciate it! I spent my last two weekends in Europe amongst my very good friends, C&M. This meant getting to run in Belgium. My first weekend there was also my very first 20-mile run of train-up for New River. The good news is that staying with C&M guarantees that I will have a good pre-run dinner! So here it goes
My First Twenty-Miler ...
...Or How Did I Do That?
My first 20-miler just went ok. Of course the first half was no problem, but around mile 14 or so, I started to wear out. My body felt ache-y all over from the start and it was a struggle to get it done. As usual with these long-mileage runs the last 6 miles were quite a struggle, with the last three being somewhere close to tortuous. I did however manage to get through it in 3 hours and 18 minutes. As I mentioned in my last blog, is that I need to run these long runs slower. Well, it was virtually impossible for me to run faster, according to the Garmin I ran an average 9:56 pace. This is slightly over the prescribed 60-90 second increase over my race pace, but this was really the best I could do. I've decided that these 20 mile runs are life-changing experiences. At first this may sound dramatic, but I truly believe this. Just like with any run, the first two minutes are pure hell, until I find my rhythm, then I can kind of settle into a pace. This can last for awhile, for a long while. But right around mile 14 I start to get irritated. One would think I would be happy, because there is just 6 miles to go, but this is not the case. At this point, for some reason, I seriously want to quit, I just want to start walking. The sole reason I keep running is that I am way to far away from home, and walking will only prolong the misery. I also become mentally weak at this point and my thoughts will run a full gamut of negativity, even things that have absolutely nothing to do with running will creep up on me. This feeling lasts around 3 miles, after this, my hips and knees are aching and I really want to quit. If I'm feeling particularly sorry for myself, this is the point where I start crying.This lasts about a mile or so, and then I get angry, and this will push me through to the end. I'm sure most of you are really surprised at this little revelation. Where are those feel-good running endorphins, you ask. Well, they happen around the half-way point, and then they go far, far away. This is why I think these 20-mile runs are life-changing. They are just such a struggle to finish, and all kinds of crazy thoughts go through your head. Every single time and the first time is the worst.In fact, I don't even know how I manage to complete them.
Luckily, my recovery was quite good. After a short stretch and shower and a good recovery meal prepared by CR, a few glasses of champagne and a nap I was as good as new.
The Higdon training schedule that I'm following called for a 19-mile run the week previous to the first 20-miler, when I added up the two-weeks' mileage it came to approximately 100 miles. This is not insignificant and I noted the effects in the taper week...
The Taper Week...
...Or I'm Officially Smoked ...
Sunday's 20-miler took a lot out of me, but Monday's prescribed 4-miler wasn't so bad. Since it was one of my last runs in Eppelheim, I decided to run sans GPS. I know the turn around point for a 4-mile run, so I just ran for the pure enjoyment. Thankfully, I still find running enjoyable!
Unfortunately, this didn't last long, as Tuesday's run and those that followed were absolutely not enjoyable. I felt ache-y and stiff from the outset to the end. Additionally, this move is wearing on me. I am so busy trying to sort things out, that I have completely abandoned any gym work I was doing and I'm having trouble squeezing in the week-day runs at all. Adding to the misery is my new hotel room. It is a virtual sauna, in fact, I've been in saunas that were cooler than my hotel room. I can't wait to get out of here. I skipped running on Friday all together to travel back to Belgium to spend my last weekend with C&M. I pushed my speedwork off until Saturday and again did my long run on Sunday. The speed work, didn't go that well. I did six 800 meter intervals. I couldn't get my heart rate anywhere near my lactic acid threshold (177). I have no idea what is wrong with me.
Sunday's 12-miler was hellish. I was completely unmotivated and felt exhausted the whole time. This is a massive disappointment, as this is supposed to be easy and enjoyable!
I think there are several things that are derailing my training....here it goes...
...Or Look Out Bragg, I'm Busting Through...
I am determined to reclaim the upper hand in my training program. But now, I have to deal with jet-lag. My training program starts in a deficit, as I will have to skip the first 10-mile run of my high-mileage week. Despite that I arrived in Fayetteville around 5:30 pm, I opted not to run on Tuesday. I am significantly dehydrated as well as having a completely disrupted my rest cycle. Wednesday, the weather was awful, so I traveled onto to Fortress Bragg to use the treadmill. The run wasn't great, my gait felt off and I was tired the whole, time...but I needed to dust off the running shoes and get back with the program. I'm working really hard to keep to the letter of the program especially when it comes to workouts to increase speed. This meant 7 hill repeats, I certainly didn't feel like running and I'm pretty convinced the local mailman thinks I'm crazy. Ten-miler Friday didn't really go that well, again. My body still feels stiff and I'm not very motivated. This could be the jet-lag, because my heart rate just isn't getting up there. The only thing Friday's run really did for me was to shake my confidence for Saturday's 20-miler.
Despite my trepidation for Saturday's 20-miler it actually started off pretty decently, my jet-lag seemed to be subsiding and the weather seemed ideal for running. The sun was shining, but the temperature was still relatively cool. The first 5-6 miles went by pretty easily, but by mile nine or so, I started to feel a little rickety. Then the wind kicked up, and things started getting really unpleasant. Working against the wind was really tough especially after logging more than half the run's mileage. Just pushing against it was really starting to wear on my and I again started to get really annoyed around mile 14, and those last 6 miles were again, basically, tortuous. The last three miles were difficult because I was extremely sore, and I had to coach myself up the last hilly mile to finish. I am again thinking about how in the hell I am going to add six more miles to this already excruciating distance and a minute and half faster. I completed this run in 3 hours 16 minutes which is an average of 9:50 minute per mile. I reckon this isn't a bad showing considering jet-lag and my lack of gym work, I can feel a difference, especially in my core. The first 10-minutes of my recovery were pretty miserable, but after I cooled down, stretched a bit and ate, I felt a bit better. One more 20-mile run left in this program. I hope I can make it. I have so much more to say, but will save it for next week, so I can close this novella.
This Week's Training: M=5; Tu=6; W=5; Th=45 min Tempo; F=6; Sa=12 or Su= 13.1 Raleigh Rocks!?
In Summation: Long Catch-Up Blogs=Tedious to write, Tedious to read; 20 Miles= Friggin' Hard; Boston Qualifier=Friggin' Hard; Jet-lag=Annoying; Moving=Destabilizing; Next Week's Taper Week; Vowing to Blog More Regularly=Trite Promise
Since I'm so far behind on my blogging I've decided against posting three separate blogs to catch up, but to divide this post into three sections. This goes against my OCD-like nature, but I do this for your reading pleasure. I hope you appreciate it! I spent my last two weekends in Europe amongst my very good friends, C&M. This meant getting to run in Belgium. My first weekend there was also my very first 20-mile run of train-up for New River. The good news is that staying with C&M guarantees that I will have a good pre-run dinner! So here it goes
My First Twenty-Miler ...
...Or How Did I Do That?
My first 20-miler just went ok. Of course the first half was no problem, but around mile 14 or so, I started to wear out. My body felt ache-y all over from the start and it was a struggle to get it done. As usual with these long-mileage runs the last 6 miles were quite a struggle, with the last three being somewhere close to tortuous. I did however manage to get through it in 3 hours and 18 minutes. As I mentioned in my last blog, is that I need to run these long runs slower. Well, it was virtually impossible for me to run faster, according to the Garmin I ran an average 9:56 pace. This is slightly over the prescribed 60-90 second increase over my race pace, but this was really the best I could do. I've decided that these 20 mile runs are life-changing experiences. At first this may sound dramatic, but I truly believe this. Just like with any run, the first two minutes are pure hell, until I find my rhythm, then I can kind of settle into a pace. This can last for awhile, for a long while. But right around mile 14 I start to get irritated. One would think I would be happy, because there is just 6 miles to go, but this is not the case. At this point, for some reason, I seriously want to quit, I just want to start walking. The sole reason I keep running is that I am way to far away from home, and walking will only prolong the misery. I also become mentally weak at this point and my thoughts will run a full gamut of negativity, even things that have absolutely nothing to do with running will creep up on me. This feeling lasts around 3 miles, after this, my hips and knees are aching and I really want to quit. If I'm feeling particularly sorry for myself, this is the point where I start crying.This lasts about a mile or so, and then I get angry, and this will push me through to the end. I'm sure most of you are really surprised at this little revelation. Where are those feel-good running endorphins, you ask. Well, they happen around the half-way point, and then they go far, far away. This is why I think these 20-mile runs are life-changing. They are just such a struggle to finish, and all kinds of crazy thoughts go through your head. Every single time and the first time is the worst.In fact, I don't even know how I manage to complete them.
Luckily, my recovery was quite good. After a short stretch and shower and a good recovery meal prepared by CR, a few glasses of champagne and a nap I was as good as new.
The Higdon training schedule that I'm following called for a 19-mile run the week previous to the first 20-miler, when I added up the two-weeks' mileage it came to approximately 100 miles. This is not insignificant and I noted the effects in the taper week...
The Taper Week...
...Or I'm Officially Smoked ...
Sunday's 20-miler took a lot out of me, but Monday's prescribed 4-miler wasn't so bad. Since it was one of my last runs in Eppelheim, I decided to run sans GPS. I know the turn around point for a 4-mile run, so I just ran for the pure enjoyment. Thankfully, I still find running enjoyable!
Unfortunately, this didn't last long, as Tuesday's run and those that followed were absolutely not enjoyable. I felt ache-y and stiff from the outset to the end. Additionally, this move is wearing on me. I am so busy trying to sort things out, that I have completely abandoned any gym work I was doing and I'm having trouble squeezing in the week-day runs at all. Adding to the misery is my new hotel room. It is a virtual sauna, in fact, I've been in saunas that were cooler than my hotel room. I can't wait to get out of here. I skipped running on Friday all together to travel back to Belgium to spend my last weekend with C&M. I pushed my speedwork off until Saturday and again did my long run on Sunday. The speed work, didn't go that well. I did six 800 meter intervals. I couldn't get my heart rate anywhere near my lactic acid threshold (177). I have no idea what is wrong with me.
Sunday's 12-miler was hellish. I was completely unmotivated and felt exhausted the whole time. This is a massive disappointment, as this is supposed to be easy and enjoyable!
I think there are several things that are derailing my training....here it goes...
- Intercontinental move...this move is keeping me really busy
- My diet is completely disrupted. I am eating tons of processed food, due to be ousted from my kitchen
- Drinking, lots and lots of farewell drinks. Even though I'm rarely drunk, there is lots of alcohol in my system
- I think I may be catching a cold. It's been at least 5 years since I've been sick...so I don't know
- Dehydration as a result from all of the above
...Or Look Out Bragg, I'm Busting Through...
I am determined to reclaim the upper hand in my training program. But now, I have to deal with jet-lag. My training program starts in a deficit, as I will have to skip the first 10-mile run of my high-mileage week. Despite that I arrived in Fayetteville around 5:30 pm, I opted not to run on Tuesday. I am significantly dehydrated as well as having a completely disrupted my rest cycle. Wednesday, the weather was awful, so I traveled onto to Fortress Bragg to use the treadmill. The run wasn't great, my gait felt off and I was tired the whole, time...but I needed to dust off the running shoes and get back with the program. I'm working really hard to keep to the letter of the program especially when it comes to workouts to increase speed. This meant 7 hill repeats, I certainly didn't feel like running and I'm pretty convinced the local mailman thinks I'm crazy. Ten-miler Friday didn't really go that well, again. My body still feels stiff and I'm not very motivated. This could be the jet-lag, because my heart rate just isn't getting up there. The only thing Friday's run really did for me was to shake my confidence for Saturday's 20-miler.
Despite my trepidation for Saturday's 20-miler it actually started off pretty decently, my jet-lag seemed to be subsiding and the weather seemed ideal for running. The sun was shining, but the temperature was still relatively cool. The first 5-6 miles went by pretty easily, but by mile nine or so, I started to feel a little rickety. Then the wind kicked up, and things started getting really unpleasant. Working against the wind was really tough especially after logging more than half the run's mileage. Just pushing against it was really starting to wear on my and I again started to get really annoyed around mile 14, and those last 6 miles were again, basically, tortuous. The last three miles were difficult because I was extremely sore, and I had to coach myself up the last hilly mile to finish. I am again thinking about how in the hell I am going to add six more miles to this already excruciating distance and a minute and half faster. I completed this run in 3 hours 16 minutes which is an average of 9:50 minute per mile. I reckon this isn't a bad showing considering jet-lag and my lack of gym work, I can feel a difference, especially in my core. The first 10-minutes of my recovery were pretty miserable, but after I cooled down, stretched a bit and ate, I felt a bit better. One more 20-mile run left in this program. I hope I can make it. I have so much more to say, but will save it for next week, so I can close this novella.
This Week's Training: M=5; Tu=6; W=5; Th=45 min Tempo; F=6; Sa=12 or Su= 13.1 Raleigh Rocks!?
In Summation: Long Catch-Up Blogs=Tedious to write, Tedious to read; 20 Miles= Friggin' Hard; Boston Qualifier=Friggin' Hard; Jet-lag=Annoying; Moving=Destabilizing; Next Week's Taper Week; Vowing to Blog More Regularly=Trite Promise
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)