Last year, in this event, I set a (then) PR of 25:44. I went on to run 2 more 5k's in the 25's last year, including my PR at the Rahr Oktoberfest 5k of 25:02. I had yet to get in the 25's this year. It has been my goal to break the 25' mark for a year.
With my recent speed work and weight loss, my pace has been improving.
I ran on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Friday this week. On Tuesday, between walking and running, I booked 18.5 miles on the day. I have been feeling a little soreness since.
While I'd planned to run today, before we leave for vacation, it was in doubt, as Lindsi wanted to go to 8 am yoga. She was kind enough to let me run and attend a later class.
For the 1st time in several weeks, I battled some insomnia last night. I'm hoping to isolate the issue soon.
I was up early, ate a banana, and was out the door by 6:45 for a 7:30 start time. I planned to ride the hybrid bike to the site, and, had not picked up my packet in advance. I headed out on the bike, only to circle back twice due to forgetting a couple of items. I got to the race site in plenty of time to pick up my packet, change shoes and stretch my calves and Achilles before the race.
I chose the music option today, for the 1st time in several events, as I had new headphones I wanted to try out (jaybird bluebuds X).
When the horn sounded, I got off to a fast start...I was in the mid/upper 7's. I felt good. I was lengthening my stride and felt comfortable. I passed the 1 mile marker and continued my pace. I found a couple of folks to pace with along the way. At the end of mile 2, I knew my PR was in sight. If I ran the last mile at a decent pace, I'd break through the elusive 25' mark. Mile 3 was 8:12. I kicked down the stretch to the finish, and...boom...24:28. I'd done it. A new PR by 34 seconds.
Even with my new PR, when I left, I was still 6/9 in my AG. I'll never be one of the fast guys, but, it felt good to break the 25' mark. I cooled down briefly, and jumped back on the bike for the ride home. I do believe that the bike commute to and from the race site helps with warmup.
This was a good box to check prior to our week on the beach. I'll keep my workouts up this week in preparation for the Mayors Tri next weekend.
Congrats!
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