Long run with the marathon pace segment in the middle. Did 6mi. easy, then 6mi. in 48:00 (8:00 pace), then 5.3mi. easy. I really tried to pace myself properly and not start out too fast on the marathon piece. So I started at 8:05 (still 10 sec. faster than my projected MP) and it felt completely easy. I hardly heard myself breathing. Practiced taking gel at marathon pace. It took some time and extra energy fumbling with water flask, but I was able to do it and not lose my pace at all. After about 3 miles at MP, I noticed my pace dropping and in the end I did 6mi in 48:00. It still felt easy at the end. I planned on doing 16mi. total, but then I felt good enough to extend it a bit. Took 2 gels, at 6.5 mi. and at 12 miles.
My only complaint today were crowded sidewalks especially by the London Zoo. It was a nice day, and people were out with kids, strollers, etc. I had to dodge people like crazy. But overall it was a very good run. I ran in DS Trainers again - no problems. Total time 2:27:24 (8:31 pace). | 