Notes
Ran the practice course last week in 24:05, so I was shooting for 23:00, which was my training group for the PR5K program all summer. Ended up coming in well under that when the 'race effect' was accounted for, so I am very happy.
Knew I was going out a little fast, and corrected a bit at the half-mile mark after clocking a 3:06. From the first mile on, it was a guessing game/balancing act, as I was actively trying to slow down a bit from my first mile pace, which I knew was hot, while at the same time pushing myself. I think for the most part it worked out well, with my second mile being tough but doable, and my last mile feeling like there was no way I could maintain it. In fact, I had the briefest of walks (5-10 seconds) @ about 2.25, when I just needed to grab my breathe, but from then on resumed my pacing.
Felt like the competition tonight was fast, and that really pushed me a bit. I feel like I would have trouble at a smaller/less competitive 5K trying to turn in a similar time. My longer runs recently have definitely made all the difference in the world though, as my stamina is much higher than it was during the actual PR5k training program.
This is the fastest I've run since getting hurt, and I'm super happy with it.
7:00 pace is within striking range and gives me a reasonable next target.