First Training 20 Mile Run

Today I ran my first 20 mile run according to my training schedule.  The weather was perfect in the 60s when I started at 6:45 a.m.  I bought my new shoes finally on Thursday before teaching my spin class at L.A. Fitness.  I decided to change my strategy this time and stay on flat terrain this time.  I usually like doing some hill work during long runs, but wanted to see how I would do.  I did hit a little hill, but not nothing like I normally do.  My legs felt good and made sure to empty my bowls before heading out (which is a must for me before I run..LOL), had my water and gel blocks ready to go.  It was still kind of dark, but had my night lights on my shoes.  I started to see runners and bikers right away and felt better.  I started listening to a podcast from RunnersConnect where they interviewed this guy who is in his early 40's with kids, full-time job, wife, etc. and still very active and competitive with taking on crazy challenges.  It was interesting to hear his passion for running and how it's never too late to start chasing your desire to see what you are capable of.  It left me motivated and thinking I want to have that passion even when I'm 90 years old.  I hope to keep running until the good Lord decides to take me.  I just pray for good health always.

I started my run faster than I wanted, but for some reason it didn't feel like I was going fast so I just ignored it and kept going.  When I got to 10 miles and realized I was staying at or under 8:00 minute miles and still felt good and strong, I thought to myself...keep that pace until you finish. At about mile 16 there was a race that was about to start on the same trail I was on.  I decided to pick up my pace and pass them before they started, but they started just as I passed the start line.  Then, it was on! The competitor side of me wanted to race with them too, but when I realized I wouldn't be able to keep up that fast pace till the end.  So, I backed down and focused on my goal.  It was fun running with them and motivated me to finish strong.  I finished with a 7:58 pace per mile! Cooler whether and new shoes made a huge difference this time. What did I ate last night you ask? I ate 4 slices of pizza and I guess that helped too😜..LOL!  Now I just hope to be able to maintain that pace till the end of my marathon to break a new PR of 3:30 which would my ultimate goal and hope to get that in Chicago!