Week 11

Two decisions made for me today: 1. I will leave the 5k pb try until after the marathon 2. My predicted marathon time is 3:42 which means running at 8:28 per mile. Today we ran Sheffield Half Marathon. It was hot and there were some tough hills in there as well. I found it incredibly hard to pace myself properly, but still managed a pb by finishing in 1:41:11 (according to my Garmin). Applying Tom's double it and add 10% rule, I came out with the 3:42 time which would still give me a gfa place for London 2010. I pushed it hard today, managed a negative split and didn't fade in the last mile, but it still wasn't what I had hoped for - maybe I am not a long distance runner. Kay pointed out that I hadn't tapered for this and the last two weekends I have done 20 milers so my legs were probably tired. Don't get me wrong - I am pleased with my time though. As the time draws nearer, I have decided that I have no idea how well I am going to cope with 26 miles even though the 20s have been relatively easy (during them at least!), so I will play by the rules to mile 20 and then see what happens. If it is as hot as it was today for the Londoners, I know I will have no chance!! A HUGE well done to Kay for her race today . Nicky did fantastically well considering she has been injured and only back running for 4 weeks. Two weeks to taper time...