Got her in. Not my prettist race ever, but it was a solid effort. Finished 7th overall -- felt tired from the start and kept going. The best parts of this race: it was local, very tough course (all dirt, lots of hills) and I got together w/ Robin Root (now Schmidt I believe) a fellow alumni from the Cal Poly track team. I was hoping to feel more energetic at this race, but w/ all the craziness of the Channel Islands expo/race, diva lounge opening and worksmirk trips out of the area -- what could I really expect.
I have the hardest time keeping an honest perspective of where I'm at with my running. I always expect top notch from my self, when ultimately I need to realize there are ups and downs -- it's not always your A game, going for the Oly Trials. And when it's not at that level, I still need to be satisfied with stirring it up, toeing the line and getting burly w/ the other running divas. Bottom line, I love to run and race regardless of where I finish in the race. And to be 41, and finishing in the top 10 -- well in advance of many young divas racing in college -- I need to appreciate what I'm able to accomplish.
In looking over my running log for the past few months, I've been hitting 45 miles / week very consistently. Can't seem to get to the 50 mile level, but at least know my body seems to be coming all together without any lingering aches and pains. I believe I can hold on to this level all the way through this year, even with the trips to NY, San Diego and San Antonio that are set for the first two weeks in November. I have a four mile road race here in Baywood next Sunday and then I'm hoping to pull of the PA XC Champion Race the week we return from San Antonio. XC Nationals up in Spokane is still in the air -- by the time we get to December we may be extremely burnt out on the whole travel concept.
It's good practice to race cross country. The distance is the big challenge for me to mentally stay focused and compete strong all the way through the line. Ultimately, if I can race strong for a 5 or 8k distance it will make the 1500 on the track that much more enjoyable. This spring I hope to fit in more 800s than the year prior and see how far I can go throughout track season.
I have a normal week coming up and should be able to get lots of rest and hard workouts logged. That always makes me feel good! I should even be able to get more cross training under my belt -- especially deep water running. The sit-ups and push-ups are becoming more routine, so w/ that, running steady, 3-4 dog hikes, one surf session and 2 deep water runs I should be very happy.
Okay, so now what about this weekend. Time to get caught up around the house, hang out w/ the doggies and wash my car if I'm lucky. I do have a social engagement this afternoon -- Jilly's baby shower -- so I'm looking forward to visiting with all the divas. Talk w/ you soon. aero
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