Due to family commitments over the weekend, I got my long run in today. The plan called for 16-20 mile fast finish long run. Since I had missed the previous two long runs (see previous updates) I had planned on getting the 20 in and would see how the MP miles go with the plan to base on effort and focus on the long run, not the MP miles. I started early and dark and finished with an absolutely gorgeous sunrise. These days I am usually done before the sunrises, so it was a nice gift. I started the MP at mile 14 and was a little slow, too fast for 15 and 16, slow for 17 - however it was all up hill and I was feeling beat and told myself to back off a bit and remember the goal is to finish. 18 & 19 were just a little slow, but not too far off and 20 was just under MP. Over all I feel pretty good about this run and the effort / paces. Considering, I haven't done a long run since December 26th and it was on the treadmill, today's run was pretty good. It is interesting how each workout this week has caused me some stress and doubts and afterwards, I am convinced the training is working and amazed at what I have been able to accomplish! Trust the process! I still am not sure what to expect on race day and overall my goals are more mental focused than pace driven, but it would be nice to be sub 3:45...the 3:30 is still out of reach, I do know that.
Splits: 9:08, 8:51, 8:57, 8:50, 8:50
8:44, 8:49, 8:43, 8:45, 8:35
8: 40, 8:35, 8:27, 8:12, 7:57
7:49, 8:22, 8:05, 8:07, 7:53
2:50:29 / 20 miles / 8:31 avg pace
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