This is probably the best long run I've ever had. But I do have a short memory, so I could be wrong. I decided to do loops for this one because I do better with those, just in case I need some water or a potty break. And I needed both today. I warmed up 5.2 at 8:48 average pace. I wanted the loop to be 5, but I overshot it a bit. Then I stopped to unload some fluid and decided also to replenish. Then I did 5 at a fast pace. My average pace for the 5 was 7:53. I'm very happy with that. Splits were 7:55, 7:57, 7:55, 7;50 and 7:48. Effort felt pretty even, though I felt relieved when the last fast mile was done. Then I ran another 4.8 to finish out my 15 miles. I felt very slow, but my average pace wasn't terrible (9:12). However, I did get progressively slower. But that's okay because it was a nice cool down. I think I finished 13.1 in about 1:51, which is satisfying given my minimal effort in the first and last part of the run. I still think my goal for the Champaign half (I am four weeks out) will be to come in under 1:50. I am running with a lot of friends, and my pr race was one where I left my group and ran MY race. I probably will be running someone else's race this time around, if that makes any sense. I'd just rather stay with people who are traveling to run with me. | 