#maymyrun

So there I was. Out running my final long training run before the LA marathon. I've been running this "24 mile" course for years. I always felt like my Garmin was a bit off with my mileage so I just went with my 24 mile theory.

Well, since I started running with MapMyRun I've noticed how accurate the app is. So there I am about a mile from the halfway turnaround point and realize that I'm going to be at 13 miles when I turnaround. Rationally I should have turned at that 12 mile mark. But did I? No. I couldn't seem to turn around since mentally I know that I always run to that particular point. As predicted, I was at 13 miles when I turned around. When I finished the run I did indeed complete 26.21 miles.  

I had many of those tough moments we all face on a long run.... the "omg, can I finish this run (even though I've completed this course at least 10 times!)?", shins hurting a bit, and periodic moments of what felt like semi-dehydration. But then you realize it's nothing that a few Advil, GU Chomps, PowerGels, SaltStick caps, and Nuun electrolyte tabs can't fix. Well that, and pure determination. The funny thing is, as a marathoner, you somehow finish the run and literally within just about 2 minutes you nearly forget the trials you went through to complete it. I was showered, had some Endurox R4 & ZICO, and was out the door to walk another mile to meet a friend for lunch. Pretty freaking cool!

I can definitely say that the additional .01 over the 26.2 marathon distance gave me sheer confidence in the upcoming race. And it also helped fuel me for what turned out to be one incredibly challenging week.

Bring on the LA Marathon on 3/17. I'm ready!!!