21.19@11:20 HR 136 bpm
Long Haul course preview run. This was a supported run held at Colt Creek state park. I think there were about 40 runners there. I was hoping to do up to 32 miles (about two loops) but at least wanted to get one loop done and then add on some more to get into the 20's.
Official start time was 8:30. I said I'd meet Daisy there at 7:30. I got to the gate just after 7:30 then took a few minutes to drive to the parking spot. We did a short 3 mile loop to warm up and then waited for the official start where RD Andy gave some course instructions and advice. It's a similar course to Colt 45 but adds on some extra sections to extend the distance from 14 miles to 16.7 miles.
Nick was also there, the three of us ran together for almost 13 miles. Nick was running short on time so went ahead and since we had gotten ahead of Daisy, I turned back to look for her. Saw two women running together and asked if they saw her, they said yes and that she said she was "done" and last saw her walking on the paved road. So I assumed she was going to take a shortcut on the road to get back.
At about mile 14 I think my average pace was around 11:40, but after that I picked it up for the remainder miles. Course was pleasant. There was one section of water you could almost tiptoe around but not quite so my shoes got a little wet, but everything else was perfect. Almost back at the start area and I was near the start/finish for the actual race, near the big pavillion. Course wasn't explicitly marked but if I'd paid attention to the instructions I'd know to stay on the paved path in front of the pavillion which then turns back to trail as it goes around Mac Lake. Fortunately, a runner that was driving by on his way home saw I looked lost and told me where to go.
Back at the start, my watch was at 19.8 miles. I stopped at my car for water and refueling and then suddenly felt run down. Got going again and felt better but didn't go too far, just enough to get into the 20's.
Hanging out afterward, Daisy called. She was close by at the place where I wasn't sure where to go, gave her the instructions and less than 10 minutes later she showed up (a few people ran into the same problem). On race day it won't be a problem because we will be running this loop 7 times.
All during the week the temps were cool, but they warmed back up today, with start temps in the mid 60's and finish temps in high 70's but at least there was a good cloud cover.
Since I didn't get the big 30 plus mile run I'd hoped for I'll do some more miles tomorrow.
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