Stronger Than Ever

Finishing Strong

Recently I have had two phenomenal races. I didn't mention the 10K much last month; a good 10K time isn't representative of a marathon. And it could be a fluke. But, it has been a couple years since I got a sub 51 minute 10K (and only 1:23 off of my PR). 

Still, after this race I had 2 long runs that were subpar. I, once again, began doubting my abilities as a runner. Unusually hot weather in February posed threats of dehydration. And to think I was worried about dealing with too much 'winter weather' when I began this training cycle.

Last Sunday, I ran the Reston 10 Miler, and all of my doubts were eradicated. I maintained an 8:10 pace for the entire course (sub 8 min miles for the first 4 miles). And for anyone who knows the Reston PRR routes, this was not an easy feat. Rolling hills (more like mountains) dominate the entire race course. I saw many people who started strong putter out and slow down to a gentle walk. I saw people run off the course and receive a 'dnf' (did not finish). Despite the 19* temperature and my self doubt, I felt like a rock star from start to finish.

How to get a PR 1:21:51 10 Miler

I am mentally tough. That's one thing I learned about myself this past Sunday. I ignored the nagging voice in my head telling me to hold back and pushed past everyone in my way. I kept thinking I needed to slow down, until I realized I was almost done. At mile 8 I took off in a full sprint - uphill. 

Let's  look at the side by side comparison for this same race, year on year:

March 6, 2016

March 5, 2017

All I can say is wow... I've come a long way!!!

More Than Halfway....

Only 44 more days until Roanoke. Only 5 more long training runs.The next few weeks are going to be brutal! And my hunger is picking up once again... no way to contain that with the 40 miles + per week I'm cranking out. 

I like this plan. Previously I always ran at one speed - the fastest I could on any given day. Now, some days I force myself to go slow. Some days I have to force myself to sprint. Some days I want to give the plan and this entire training season the middle finger. But some days.... some days everything is just perfect.

Upcoming Races:

Reston Runners Marathon (Half) 4-9-17

Blue Ridge Marathon  - 4-22-17

AOL 5K Fun Run - 5-7-17 :) (yay for a short race)

Twilight 4 Miler - 6-24-17

Cheers and Happy Running!

India