Notes
Well, that was a roller coaster run. I started off nice and easy, probably around 8 minute pace for the first mile, then fell into a really nice groove around 7 minute pace. Between miles 7 and 8, I caught a really bad ab cramp again. It actually forced me to stop after a mile of running through it. I massaged it for about a minute, then continued on my merry way. I felt fine for the next mile and a half or so, then it came back. But, I was passing a very good looking girl, so I could just stop and start massaging my abs...obviously. So I soldiered on. The cramp subsided a bit once I hit 11 miles, but at that point I was probably up around 6:00 pace. For some reason, that fast speed mad the cramp less significant. I finished with a nice wind in my face.
All in all, it was a good first long run of the season and of the new year. I will be seeking that groove that I found for about 3 miles. I also saw two really serious looking runners who I didn't recognize, which is rare around Downers Grove.