A Gr8 Run

52 degrees; splits 9:00; 8:54; 8:53; 9:09; 9:08; 8:58; 8:57; 8:34 1:11:34 total for 8 miles; 8:57 per mile pace.

A Great (Gr8)run today on the linear trail. The weather was perfect for a March 14 day in Connecticut. There was barely a breeze, and the temperature was 52 degrees. I decided that since I'm planning on running in a 10 mile race in 3 weeks, that it was time to attempt an 8 miler as I'm still working my way back to longer distances. Yesterday I went out after bowling with my co-workers to Happy Hour, consumed too much beer, and sleep for 11 hours instead of my usual 6 1/2 hours. So I was more tired than usual.I chose to "cheat" before running, and stopped, bought and guzzled a 16 oz. Monster Low Carb energy drink before I ran. To be kinder on my legs and heel, I chose to run the Farmington Canal Linear Park (a.k.a. the linear trail). It was fairly crowded, as is usual for a Saturday afternoon. Fortunately I avoided the few mine fields (dog poop)I encountered as I was running. Surprisingly, I didn't see roller blading, disco dancing, karaoke singing, linear trail lady today. I don't have any words of wisdom or fantastic moments from today's run. I can say that I ran pain free (yes, my heel survived my last 7 mile run), had good breathing, and was very happy with my split times. I'm guessing that my mile 4 and 5 split times are higher due to me turning around at mile 4 on the trail and heading back. The fact that I averaged just under 9 minute mile pace on the trail for 8 miles thrills me. I'm ahead of the game as far as running the 10 miler in 3 weeks. As usual, I have to not be stupid and push myself too much, which I probably already am. It's difficult not to when my right knee no longer hurts, and my left heel also is feeling good. Tomorrow I'm running on the road, probably a long, slower paced 7 or 8 miler. For now, life is good for Marathonman101108. By the way, I greatly appreciate the comments from everyone. It's nice to have your support and words of wisdom.