Saturday, October 24, 2009

Last Long Run

Today was the day for the last longish run before the marathon next week. I also wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. That I could do a longish run at a solid pace. Mental toughness was one of the main goals.

The idea was to run 10 miles at marathon pace. Well, that didn't happen. I ended up running ten miles at under half marathon pace -- about 40 seconds per mile faster than my planned marathon pace. That, of course made me smile, but my heart rate was pretty high throughout. And I am not sure that it was wise to push myself that hard before the marathon. But it really wasn't that hard. I mean I felt ok, and I wasn't racing or anything.

I did find my marathon shorts - a pair of Asics. And I think I am going to run in my Gel Kayanos. (Under Armour socks). Now I need to settle on a shirt.

One last comment, what gives with the supposed fall in New York. Today was mid-60's, 100% humidity. I ran in a light drizzle and fog in some places. This is crazy! I sure hope the marathon is cool, and not the hot humid haze that has been here since June.

Distance Time Split time Elev. chg.
0.50 0:03:28 3:28 +324
1.00 0:06:54 3:26 -91
1.50 0:10:31 3:36 +94
2.00 0:14:11 3:40 -169
2.50 0:17:56 3:45 +32
3.00 0:21:44 3:47 +71
3.50 0:25:24 3:39 -21
4.00 0:29:07 3:43 -81
4.50 0:32:54 3:46 +125
5.00 0:36:41 3:47 -3
5.50 0:40:35 3:53 -185
6.00 0:44:17 3:42 +12
6.50 0:47:54 3:36 +12
7.00 0:51:41 3:47 -14
7.50 0:55:29 3:48 +15
8.00 0:59:09 3:40 -6
8.50 1:02:55 3:46 +18
9.00 1:06:32 3:36 -19
9.50 1:10:14 3:41 +16
10.00 1:14:08 3:54 +54
10.14 1:15:44 1:35 +6

9 comments:

  1. I think this hard run is going to help. Taper is about decreasing mileage and increasing intensity. I did sub MP runs (one 15 and one 13 milers) 2 and 1 week before the marathon. They def increased my confidence. Last week of taper, good luck!

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  2. You finished, you're done. Now it's all about next weekend. Good luck, I hope the weather is fresh and cool.

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  3. Sounds like a good run. Seems like it's good to not go too soft during the taper. And, yeah, what is up with this weather? I second your hope for better weather next weekend.

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  4. I'm trying not to freak out about the weather too!

    One week it's blistering cold...the next its warm and humid...make up your mind already weather gods...what gives?

    Nice run! I think you're officially ready now!

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  5. You're going to do GREAT!!! Can't wait to read all about it! I will be tracking you all morning!

    As for your weather concerns... just keep those fingers crossed... and maybe offer up something to the weather gods... :)

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  6. If you felt you weren't pushing it, not to worry. It's next week that you have to be concerned about being too enthusiastic.

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  7. Sweet final long-ish run! You're rested, you're mentally prepared, and you gave a great stimulation to assure that your legs are primed for a great marathon on Sunday!

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  8. Enjoy the Taper. I can't wait to hear about Next Weekend.

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  9. Sounds like you got your mojo back. Nice work!

    My last longish run was horrible. Had the same plan, managed to do 10 just under MP, but didn't respect the distance like I have previous long runs. Wasn't well hydrated, ate too soon beforehand, warmer and more humid than I anticipated. Not a great confidence booster.

    I've got a 23,000ish bib number, so I'll be crossing the start 20min after you. Good luck, I'll look out for the recap!

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