18 Miles
The run is over and I’m pleased with the results. I did the 18 miles in just under a 13:10 per mile pace. R and I did the first 12 miles together and the last 6 miles separately and she finished about 10-15 minutes ahead of me.
R found it to be a tough race because we were two of the slowest participants. I understand her feeling, but being last-ish doesn’t bother me. It’s miraculous to me that I can run 18 miles when 4 years ago I couldn’t run a block. That isn’t hyperbole, that’s the truth.
The course consisted of 3 laps around Central Park. I found the second lap to be difficult because we were being passed by everyone who would finish in 7-9 minute mile pace. You have crowds of speedy people around you and you’re just trying to keep yourself going. But we did keep going. We also both finished fast enough (under 4 hours) that the race will count as a qualifying race for next year’s marathon. We have 7 races towards that goal.
So overall, good day! And now I’m off to a b-day party.
Tags: marathon training
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September 30, 2007 at 11:09 pm
AWESOME. I certainly know “last-ish” and I certainly know miraculous from whence we came. 18 miles is amazing. Great going and thanks for your comments on my race! Everyone is being so nice for my “last-ish” effort.
October 1, 2007 at 8:42 am
Congrats! I hope you ate some cake.
October 1, 2007 at 8:59 am
Congrats! Finishing under time is fantastic and you’re only going to get better and faster with time. You should be proud of yourself.
October 1, 2007 at 12:08 pm
My calf muscle hurt just thinking about it. Congratulations though!
October 1, 2007 at 12:08 pm
Great job! Being lapped sucks, but remember hundreds might pass you during loop 2, but thousands can’t even finish loop 1! Keep up the great work!