The forecast calls for rain and thunderstorms for the next three days. For my run, temperature was a wonderful 51 degrees and the sky is filled with low grey clouds.
I wanted to run eight minute miles for 4 miles today, so I could build some confidence for my 5k race next weekend. I have only run three 5k races. The first race was in 2001 and I ran it in about 27 minutes. (This first 5k was my one and only race from 1993 until 2005. Before that I ran track in seven grade and a mile run for kids when I was about 7.) The second race I was almost five months pregnant. I ran it in about 30 or 31 minutes. The third race I ran with Will when he was three months old. Again 30 or 31 minutes. So, next weekend will be my first 5k that I will go for a big PR.
As I started my run, I considering being more realistic with myself. I felt a little cold and slow. Plus, I have never run a fast four miles outside of a race and decided I would be pleased if I ran three miles in 24 minutes. I figured if I could do 3 miles in 24 minutes, I definitely could break 23 minutes in a 5k race. So, I set out to try to keep my quarters close to two minutes.
Here are my mile splits:
8:05--first three quarters were down hill.
7:58--very pleased with this mile. I didn't know if I was going to be able to keep up the two minute quarters. But, I did.
8:01--I was determined to get another eight minute mile and this mile was a little more up hill.
8:11--last three quarter completely up hill. A very big hill. I felt good that I had gotten 24:04 for three miles and just tried to get up the hill in another 8 minutes to reach my original goal of four eight minute miles.
32:15! I am very pleased. And I am excited for next Saturday's 5k in Swisher.
Does anyone else think it would be cool to run 2008 miles in the year 2008? | 