The first day of September provided what the whole month of August couldn't - a reasonably cool day for a long run.
It was 60 degrees this morning, with a slight breeze. There was not a cloud in the sky, which was starry at 4:55 a.m. when we took off on what was to be a 20 miler for me and a 24-miler for Mike. The guy is running ridiculous miles, it seems. But because of it, we planned to average 10 minute miles and to loop back to the house to replenish liquids.
We stuck to the pace, but because it was so cool, we decided we didn't need the aid stop and elected to go out and back, with Mike going on for his final four miles. Several other plans were discussed as the miles ticked by, with both of us finally agreeing to a 22-mile out and back run. As it turned out, I quit a little short of 22, mostly because I was already in a bonus situation after 20 miles and was unwilling to climb any more significant hills. So, with a mountain staring me in the face at 21.3, I stopped my watch and my walked the remaining .7 mile to the house. Mike completed 22.
Because of the cool weather, we were both in extremely good shape after the run, which featured a pretty significant negative split. Our fastest mile was 19, which we ran in 9:05. Most of our splits from mile 12 to the end were faster than the splits up to 12.
I don't know if the weather will cooperate to this degree the rest of the training period, but I at least know that my body will respond well if it doesn't have to contend with heat and humidity. It will be shocking if those are factors at KC on Oct. 20, so I feel pretty good about my chances for a good finish.
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After all of the hot, steamy days recently it was amazing to feel a bit chilly during the early part of the run Saturday. I didn't run as far as you did, but, like you, I thoroughly enjoyed the break in the weather. By the way, I'm glad RobRuns is back in action.
-Jason
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