Notes
This was a grinder but it went well. Running with Rob and Anthony for the first 16 was very helpful and I thank them a lot for pushing me.
The first six miles were nice and easy but as usual, it didn't take long until we were in the 7:10-7:20/mi range. After those, we dropped it down to a moderate pace for six miles with a goal of 6:40-6:50/mi. Those miles felt good and I was ready to go and I feel pleased that I averaged 6:41.5/mi over that time with the last one being more of a transition mile.
The last 8 miles were broken up into some that felt really good and the tough last three. The goal was 6:17/mi and I ended up running every mile a bit faster averaging 6:09.8/mi here. I still had Rob and Anthony with me for 13-16 and even though I was slightly ahead of them at the end, they were pushing me and that is what I needed. However, I know I'll be running a lot on my own in Mississauga and I need to push it solo when I'm tired. Mile 17 was fine and it started to hurt on 18 though which was expected. I still averaged a 6:07 (too fast over the last three) though and I'm pleased with that. The only disappointing thing was I had to stop to use the bathroom twice over those last three miles (good Nepalese food Saturday night but I won't eat it pre-race). Overall, this was a good run for me and I feel very pleased with the outcome.