Scotland Run 10k

So typical. I went EXACTLY my previous best in a 10k- 48:17 (7:47 pace). [I have run faster off the bike in an OLY tri].

The previous best was from the opposite direction around the park, and I think clockwise, as today's race was, is harder.

I am VERY happy with how I ran, I can honestly say I gave it my all. It was POURING rain, I had hives covering my arms, and my shoes were soaked before the race started.

This is the first race since my injury in December '07 that I have gotten out and RACED, and not been afriad of how much it was going to hurt, or afraid of re-injuring my leg. I ran the previous 10k best about two weeks before my injury. I wanted to use this race as a gauge for where I stand, and have another 10k, on the same course, in exactly a month. I think I will take away a lot from today to be able to improve in a month and get closer to the:

1. I didn't wear my Garmin, as it was pouring, and somehow forgot how to use a simple Timex watch, so I have no splits from today, which I am sort of bummed about.

2. I completely fell apart the last 1-1.5 miles. Based on the amount of speedwork (none), tempo (minimal- 3 miles at most) and hill work (none) I have done, this was to be expected and I knew it was going to happen. It sucked to watch the guy I had been running with the entire race slowly get away from me, but I didn't get discouraged and pushed as hard as my body would let me. This will be my focus for the next four weeks.

3. I worked way too hard the first few miles. The start was a complete kluster$u@k, much worse that usual with NYRR race. I think it took me at least 4 minutes to cross the start line. I used up way too much energy trying to 'make up' for this slow start and get around people. I need to try to line up earlier next time, and sneak my way up closer if necessary.

4. In general, I think I was trying 'too hard' and need to relax and run comfortable, but still fast. Having a watch and seeing my splits will help this, I hope.


I thought I had closer to a 7:30 pace in my today, and was right near that pace through 4 miles (went through just over 30 minutes). I still think that pace and a breakthrough is in me, and if nothing else, this race helped me with my confidence in trying for it, which has been hurting a bit since my injury and the marathon.