A Marathoner

I’m definitely feeling the after effects of last night’s tempo. The best way to describe it is that I feel hungover. My stomach is grumbly. I’m lethargic. I’m slightly sore in my shins and calves. The latter ailment is a result of pure stupidity.

When packing my bag yesterday, I left one of my shoe inserts at home. I had no time to circle back after work, therefore, I had to pull the other one out and run with no cushioning. My NB’s already run big with the inserts. So last night I was flopping around like Bozo the Clown trying to keep up with a bunch of cheetahs. Before we started running, I wondered whether I would bloody both socks before the night was finished. Luckily, I only have a few minor blisters.

In a sense, I am glad I feel terrible. It’s proof that I am busting my tail. My buddy who is a 6x NYC Marathon runner (sub 3:05) called the 2×5k “a big workout” and said if I remain consistent in running with CPTC I will put up a really good time in November. Encouraging.

Marathon Maiden (you need to read her blog if you don’t) does a great job of consistently reviewing her stated running goals. Since we are 1+ month into 2010, I thought it would be a good time to do the same.

- General Fitness/XT: Nada. If XT consists of switching up my daily running routine, then I crushed this goal! Otherwise, not happening. No time. After completely falling off the wagon with core exercises last week, I’ve come back with a vengeance this week.
- Running Club: 99% Done! I’ve had four workouts with CPTC and told Coach last night that I want in. He shook my hand and said “Welcome, baby!” A bit of administrative stuff and I’m official.
- Training Mileage: On track. 175.1 miles in January puts me on pace for 2,100. I’m incorporating vigorous speed work 2x a week. Balance of the week consists of 2 slow recovery runs, plus a slower LR. The grandpa shuffle will be in full effect.
- PR: 1 for 1. I crushed the old HM PR in the Manhattan HM. Next opportunity is the Coogan’s 5K in early March.
- 5K: Sub-22:00 (vs 23:52 current PR). On track. Last night I ran a 23:00 5K, followed by a 2nd 5K for 24:32 as part of our Thursday night tempo. Knowing that I have 4 weeks before my next race gives me hope of hitting a sub-22:00. Secretly, I want a sub-7:00 pace for this race … well, the secret is out now! Why? I think it moves me up one corral in NYRR races. I need to get humping.
- 10K: Gunning for sub-45:00 (vs 52:03 current PR). Incomplete. First opportunity is in April.
- HM: Gunning for 1:40. Incomplete. Put down a 1:48:33 two weeks ago. 8:00 of time is a big jump, but that’s why I’m killing myself during speed work. Next opportunity is in May.
- November 7, 2010 NYC Marathon: 3:30 or Death! No. Other. Options. Incomplete. Honestly, I’m not even thinking this far ahead.