Last long training run

Saturday was the team's last long run before our SD Rock n Roll marathon on June 4th. We ran 20 miles through Marin county in gorgeous, California summer weather. Absolutely beautiful.

I did a better job pacing myself with the much needed help from my running buddy from the East Bay team. Every time I wanted to shoot on ahead, he would yell at me to slow down and remind me that it's not a race.

The first ten miles, we took it slow, around a 9:30 pace, and the second ten we picked it up to about an 8:40 pace with a finish time of around 3:07. That estimate would put us on track for a sub-four hour marathon time. My goal for the Rock n Roll is 3:55. Yes, sounds crazy but I'm trying to shave off at least 15 minutes from my marathon PR. It can be done!

I felt pretty good despite the slight pain in my right knee at mile 14 while coasting downhill but I ran through it and adjusted my form slightly due to the terrain imbalance. Eventually, the pain went away.

I still had tons of energy after the run (maybe I was happy it was over!) and I ended up walking a couple miles up and down the city hills to watch the Kaboom fireworks with a friend that night.

Next two weeks: Tapering while looking for a place to take swim lessons.
I need to start my tri training soon...