Alameda Creek Run

May 2 2009

This Saturday, we did the Alameda Creek run. I was glad that for a change our coached run was in Fremont, so I got to sleep for another 15 minutes in the morning. The recommendation for 1/2 marathoners was 5-7 miles but I had decided to go for 8. I was also glad that my mentor Devina was running with me. It is nice to have someone run with you when you are running longer distances.

The last time I ran 8 miles at Inspiration Point, I was basically walking for most of the last 2 miles and I took 1 hour and 48 minutes. I was hoping that this time with my run/walk strategy I will be able to run for most of the run and cover it in a shorter time period. The terrain of the 2 courses is pretty different. Inspiration Point is a rolling hill while Alameda Creek is a fairly flat course. But still.

I could run without a break for the 1st 2 miles and then took a 30 sec break at the water stop, had some electrolytes and then started running again. I tried to run till the mile markers before taking a walk break, but on an average I ran for 10-12 minutes before taking a 1 min walking break. I find this technique to be very helpful in recovery. It is also a great mental recovery.

O ya and the Fuel belt is working out great. I had filled up all 4 bottles. i.e. about 32oz of water. I did not feel like I was carrying a lot of weight as the weight was well distributed around the belt. I also tried the Mango Cliff shot and though it is an improvement over GU, it still isnt awesome. Hopefully the Chocolate Cliff shot tastes better.

Overall, this run was fun. It started drizzling during the last 2 miles of the run, but that didnt bother me at all. I was happy to run in the rain especially since I know how hard it is to run in the heat. I was able to do 8 miles in 1 hour 42 minutes, so a 6 minute improvement overall. Hopefully next time I am able to cover 8 miles in 1 hour 36 mins. My goal is to cover 10 miles in 2 hours.

This week I also started taking my cross training and strength training more seriously. So I did cross training and strength training on Monday and Wednesday, running and track workout on Tuesday and Thursday and cardio on Friday. I was not sure whether my legs would be able to carry me after the intense 1 hour cardio I did on Friday, but they did not fail me. I feel so strong. BTW, I havent lost much weight :( though I think I have gained muscles, cause I do notice that I have toned a little.

As far as my fundraising goes, I am almost done with my fundraising. So I am happy that I dont have to worry about that. Less than a month left for my marathon. I am excited!!!!!