What's this blog about anyway? Read our "Welcome Message

Tuesday, May 1, 2007

4 Days and counting

As I look to the counter on the right hand side of this blog, I am reminded that I've got just short of 4 days until my first ever, running race. While I have been jogging and running on my own for years, I've never entered or competed in a running even.

So why start small with a 5k? Lets go for one of the big dogs, a 1/2 marathon. 13.1 miles. I think I'm ready. Certainly ready as I'll ever be. Most of my long runs over the past two months are already in the 12 to 13 mile range. So finishing is not an issue, its just trying to finish in under 2 hours.

2 hours or less, that's the goal. I can hold a 6 min/mile pace for 1 mile. In last years Accenture Chicago Triathlon, I held a 7:46 min/mile pace for the 10k. But holding those paces for a full 13.1 miles is a completely different story. To achieve a sub 2 hour 1/2 marathon, I need to essentially hold a 9 min/mile pace.

As I'm tapering this week and stuffing myself with pasta, we'll see how well the preparation pays off. The 3 weeks of vacation layoff, and the post vacation haze is finally worn off. Hopefully its impact will be minimal.

If you're the praying kind, say a prayer for me. After all, its not for me that I'm running. Its for the Kids (see my "Welcome Message" for more info)

Peace

No comments: