Crazy 8's

Another Saturday long run down. We wrapped up another 8 miles --- the same route as last week. We started in Adams Morgan, dropped into Rock Creek, around the Lincoln Memorial and then back.

I had a very good pace for 75% of the route. The back end of the run was a mess. I completely lost steam. I left hungry and a bit weak. That's very unusual for me. I usually have a strong finish. By the time I got to the nasty three-part hill at the end of the run I was really hurting. I pushed myself to run the whole thing --- but it was messy.  I need to eat more.

Oh well..at least I got the miles in.

I heard from our head coach that we're going to plateau a bit at 8-9 miles to make sure everyone is comfortable at the distance. I did note that we started out at a pretty aggressive mileage and I don't think everyone was ready for their first training run a few weeks ago to be five miles. That's pretty intimidating for newbies.

After my run, I spent time talking to the guys at Fleet Feet about my gear. They confirmed that I need to layer more and ditch my fleece jacket. I ran with a light fleece b/c I was so cold, but I learned that the fabric is built for comfort vs venting heat. It's gotta go.

Papa Fenty, the patriarch of the store, also spoke to our group about his running philosophy and winter running tips. He's incredible --- very zen. He's also an incredibly accomplished ultra-distance runner. I was looking at all his race photos on the wall --- including some from the 80's when he ran Western States 100.  Impressive.  For those not familiar with the race, check this out --- the race:

"takes place on trails in California's Sierra Nevada annually on the last weekend of June. The race starts at the base of the Squaw Valley ski resort and finishes at the Placer High School track in Auburn, California. Runners climb a cumulative total of 18000 feet (5500 m) and descend a total of 23000 feet (7000 m) on mountain trails before reaching the finish. Because of the length of the race, the race begins at 5:00 A.M. and continues through the day and into the night. Runners finishing before the 30 hour overall time limit for the race receive a bronze belt buckle, while runners finishing in under 24 hours receive a silver belt buckle."

Papa Fenty explained that the marathon was once thought to be the maximum distance a person could run, but in fact there are greater challenges out there --- and he is available to talk to anyone who gets a bug to do more.  That just sounds nuts...but then again...doing a half marathon sounded nuts eight months ago.

In a perfect world, I will one day conquer the marathon, attempt a sprint triathlon and then go for the ultimate...the Iron Man Hawaii.  I know someone who has done the Iron Man...twice...and survived.  Now that would be a serious accomplishment.