I had intentions of running this marathon smart and by the numbers. I was able to hit the first couple miles at 7:38, but mile 3 had a big downhill and I was at 7:19 (oops). From there I decided to run by feel, and repeated over and over, "if it feels slow it's the right pace". I had the "oh sh##" moment at the 20k mark and the half b/c I knew it was a little fast (7:35 pace), but I felt strong still, was having fun, and knew I had trained under my goal pace. I thought maybe a PR was possible if the winds didn't pick up too much and I didn't let my head get the best of me.
Running through DC is a blast. The people and energy are great, and DC feels like home to me. I was still feeling good at 18 (7:39)/ 19 (7:24). I stopped at the water stop right before the bridge. I was feeling the breeze and the heat and wanted to regroup a little. Mile 20 was my first time seeing an 8:xx. I thought, ok just pick it back up. Then, the bridge. It was windy and hot and lonely. I couldn't draft b/c people were walking or going too fast for me. It was 2 miles inside my head. For a runner that does not consider their strength to be running long, this is not a good thing. I think I pushed too hard in the wind. 21 was 8:01 and 22 was 8:02, but I was watching my watch and not focusing on how it felt. I was in a daze through Crystal City and the last lonely miles of Virginia. My tummy was not feeling so good. I was so grateful for everyone that was cheering, but I didn't have the energy to interact at that point. Loved the huge sign with the Law and Order cast that said "I love marathons too".
My last miles were 8:01, 8:25, 8:24, 8:12 (.63 #%!) I fought for that sub 3:25 and knew it would be close. Finished in 3:24, 7:49 pace (7:41 on Garmin) I don't regret how I ran this race at all. I went for it. I faded in the last 6, but no regrets. I'm ready to retire from marathons, but am doing Boston as a last hurrah. My 1 and done marathon, turned into an 11 and done.
I wanted to give a few of my thoughts on the Pfitz 12/70 plan too. I enjoyed trying it out. It didn't help with my weaknesses in the last couple miles and I don't feel a ton faster than my 55 mpw cycles. The big difference is in my recovery times. I bounce back pretty quickly these days and feel surprisingly well today. Is it worth it? Eh, probably not for me. I'll stick to 50 mpw and take more gym classes. Now to heal and get that half PR I've been working on for 3.5 years.
You ran a great race and had an amazing time. Those last six miles are tough under any conditions, but the heat and wind made it especially difficult yesterday. Way to push through and get that 3:24.
Way to run a gutsy race, Cinco! You went for it, and even though it might not have panned out perfectly, you still nailed your goal. I'm so happy that you got the race you deserved, though I'm sad you're becoming a marathon retiree. If you're going out though, going out w/a sub-3:25 and then Boston, is one helluva way to do it. Congrats!! I look forward to watching you continue to kick ass at all of the other distances.
Awesome awesome race. I think that half PR will come nov 29th during our relay. You can have the downhill part if you want
Thanks! I ran the full and don't remember there being an incline at all. I was surprised when I saw the elevation chart. I think it's flatter than it looks. I do remember a big downhill in the beginning and uphill at the end though. It's probably just a shitty elevation chart, lol.
Thanks! It wasn't quite a PR. I had a 3:21 from 2011 that I would love to beat, but that was perfect conditions. It is a post baby 3 PR by 9 minutes and a course PR though!
Post by runblondie26 on Oct 27, 2014 8:26:38 GMT -5
Congrats!!!! Cinco!!!!!
You trainined like a beast this cycle. It was insane reading your workout recaps. I think we were all in anticipation waiting to see how that would translate on race day. I'm so happy it went well and you ran a great race!!!!
Awesome awesome race. I think that half PR will come nov 29th during our relay. You can have the downhill part if you want
Thanks! I ran the full and don't remember there being an incline at all. I was surprised when I saw the elevation chart. I think it's flatter than it looks. I do remember a big downhill in the beginning and uphill at the end though. It's probably just a shitty elevation chart, lol.
The trail is essentially flat. It's a slight incline (very slight) headed north. I'm not sure which way the race goes first or how the portion is on the road.
Wow what a recap! I love that your 1 and done turned into an 11 and done. I wish I'd have been part of this group when you speedsters were doing earlier races. So inspiring to newbies like me!