Are we there, yet?
Well done, George. Congrats on turning in a speedy 5K. Do you think the extra training miles leading up to the ultra helped, or were you able to get in a lot of speedwork afterwards?
Both - sort of. The bigger base helped since I knew I had the strength and endurance to push. I did some speed work, but it doesn't take a lot. I ran only 4 speed workouts in the 6 weeks since NC24 and only two were close to 5K pace:
1) 4 x 1600m at 15K pace (10:20), 90 second recovery
2) 4 x 800m at 10K pace (9:30), 400m jog recovery
3) 3 x 800m at 5K pace (8:45), 90 second recovery
4) 8 x .4 miles at 5K pace (8:40), .2 mile jog recovery
There were also some strides and light fartlek for leg speed included in some workouts. It actually surprised me that I could run the last kilometer that fast and have a real kick. I estimate my last 200m was under :55.
2024 Races:
03/09 - Livingston Oval Ultra 6-Hour, 22.88 miles
05/11 - D3 50K 05/25 - What the Duck 12-Hour
06/17 - 6 Days in the Dome 12-Hour.
Fear is a Liar
Good job on your rice! I always enjoy reading your race reports.
I'm so vegetarian I don't even eat animal crackers!
elevenses
Well done! Congrats on your award and turning in a great time!
flashlight and sidewalk
Nice running. Congrats on the 3 year PR...that's huge!
**Ask me about streaking**
It has not gone without notice that regardless of finish times, you are competing as you always have; racing to your current fitness and ability. No different than when you began.
Thank you! Being competitive is an attitude, not a measure of how fast you are. It's why I race and why I enjoy racing. I'm speaking only for myself. There are many other reasons to race. I intend to explore those in 2014 when I'll be looking for new experiences on trails and in ultras.
Being competitive is an attitude, not a measure of how fast you are.
Word.
Very well said, George. I wish more people realized that.
PRs: Boston Marathon, 3:27, April 15th 2013
Cornwall Half-Marathon, 1:35, April 27th 2013
18 marathons, 18 BQs since 2010