Ever mindful that I don't really follow a rigid schedule, I appreciate Nigel and Brian's input regarding the length of long runs between now and New York. Since they are both far better runners than I (and since they agree), I decided to go for what they suggest mainly on the basis that their suggested runs are shorter than I had in mind.
With birthday celebrations in full swing at the weekend, I breezed 5 miles (incorporating
The Monster) late on Friday afternoon before I was dragged kicking and screaming down the pub.
This morning therefore, was last weekend's long 16 miler and I duly set the alarm for 4am. Although the duvet was far too heavy for a short while, I was out and running by 5.15
I jacked it in at 11.5 miles, totally shagged out.
I had no energy, started to feel a little light-headed, ears started ringing, and legs felt like dead weights. Bugger.
Although not a total disaster, it was some 5 miles less than intended. I do however think that I know enough not to try and make up the miles but just write them off and treat the run as a step-back week, perhaps planning a little better for this coming weekend and hopefully 16 - 18.
Thinking about it, I was trying to run after just 4 hours sleep, with only a banana and a glass of water for brekkie - so perhaps not ideal preparation, and I hope I'm just guilty of not giving the distance the respect it deserves.
Still mightily disappointing though. The first real downer of the campaign.
