20 Miles
Today I did my first big run in preparation for Aug 3. I ran 20 miles in 3.5 hours. I know, I can’t beleive it myself. I’ve been serious about the SF marathon ever since I’d signed up, but today was the first milestone proving I’m doing it. And right before my 10 day trip to Jamaica .. Ahhhh yeah …
For the running geeks out there, I ran this like I do all my runs – with my GPS Forerunner 305 watch and heart rate monitor. I love uploading my runs to motionbased.com as well as looking at them on google maps. I also wear headphones and listen to my iPhone (like my iPod, only i can take pics and view google maps if need be). I must confess my GPS watch said 19.2 miles when i stopped it, but Garmin software on the ol’ computer says 20miles. Breaks down like this – I ran solid the first 7.5 miles to the Beach Chalet, where Golden Gate Park hits the Ocean, and went inside for a drink of water. Then I ran solid up to and through the Presidio to Sports Basement, where i took my second break at 13.4 miles (135 mins), drinking more water and having my only snack, a Cliff Shot of goo. Then I ran through the marina and down Van Ness, at which point traffic, people, and stop lights disrupted my flow. I never realized how much work it takes to run, stop, run, stop, etc. Also had to buy a bottle of water cuz i was so thirsty. I got home and was not tired, but my legs ached, and had a blister on my foot. Not bad. I also give props to eating pasta the night before and no runs for 3 days. Mr. Marathon, I am READY.