Started off feeling so-so. The grass loop was very muddy after 2 days of rain, and I was sliding all over the place. I was spending a lot of energy avoiding water filled holes and trying to keep my balance. Couldn't get into a rhythm, so after one loop I decided it's enough. I stayed on paved loop from then on, but I had to run more loops, since it's shorter than the grass one. About 5 miles in, I started feeling better and realized that I felt better if I went a bit faster. Got into a good rhythm and went steady until 9 miles. Then I stopped for water and gel, and continued feeling strong to the end. My average pace dropped to 8:47 (from 8:54) and I ran the last mile at a good clip, I'd say around 8:35 - 8:40. Definitely better run than last week. Total time 2:03:41 (8:47 pace). |