Today was my 35th day in a row of continuous running. Time for a race to see how I am doing.
I ran the West Districts XC Championships and my new found vet status although hasn't helped make me win anything has made me wiser. Instead of running like a bat out of hell for the first half of a race and then wishing I was dead for the second half I am now trying to finish the first third fresh and then start to push from there. The last third is still sore but nowhere near what it used to be.
Last year I did this race the old way and was well up at the beginning but then slowly people overtook me including Thomas the crazy German as I puffed and panted to the end. Coming in placed 74th.
So this year I started at the back of the pack and worked my way up. After the first lap (2 miles) I honestly didn't feel that bad at all. What gave me even more of a boost was Debbie and Cairn had sneaked over to cheer me on so that was a very pleasant surprise. I had left her in the house after her long run and didn't expect them to come down to cheer me on. It was great and pushed me on for a bit.
Most of the race I had a battle with the same group of people. Another new situation for me as I am used to them all overtaking me. One moment I was in front then behind the group. Then in the middle. Back and forward we all battled.
Picture from Chris Upson's Flickr Website
Mens Photos Womans Photos Chris Upsons Blog
I finished feeling pretty pleased in 55th positions in a time of 36:56. Well 20 places better than last year must mean progress and hopefully is setting me up for next year. Running everyday is certainly helping and is pushing up my mileage without really tiring me out.
So so far so good. Next week I am doing my first West Highland Way training run for the 2010 race. So here we are full circle again.
5 comments:
Well done on the running plan and improved placing. :-)
When do you plan to have a day with no running? I reckon getting the timing of this will be important or you might end up losing your mojo like Ian currently has.
I'm waiting for the speeding fines to come through. It was worth the 80 mile round trip to give you a boost! xxx
Good running Marco especially when l feel the field was stronger than last years. Defo on the way back all you need now is a good steady winter injury free.
Well Done
JTJ
i'm getting worried marco! 35th day...i'm afraid you might turn into forrest gump!
Sonic, well done. Superb result.
Do not lose focus on the longer distances though.
Looking forward to the next run together.
cg
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