A Passion for Running

I’ve always known Regina is considered a windy place. From their website:

The major question mark in Regina – at this time of year or ANY time of year – is the wind. It can be calm, but chances are you will be facing some wind at some point during the race.

So, I’ve been prepared for some wind – hoping it will at least not be gusting on race day.

But now, I’m seeing something unexpected – it’s getting hot in Regina. Today, the high is supposed to be 34C/93F. And the hot weather is supposed to continue till at least Monday – as far as the five day forecast can predict.

So that leaves six days for it to cool off.

Please cool off Regina. Please!

Apparently, I am supposed to try and avoid getting hurt or killed in accidents for the next 10 days…

Yesterday, God bless her, Lori was trying her hand at a new Thai dish (it turned out great!) when, suddenly, I heard a yelp from the kithen. I looked up to see a grease fire had ignited in her wok. YIKES!

I bolted toward the kitchen in what may have been my most intense few seconds of speedwork ever and smothered the fire (three foot flames!) with a lid. No harm was done.

Today, in the last three minutes of my easy, 45 minute run, I stubbed my toe and fell down onto the pavement while crossing a sidewalk curb. I really jarred my back but I think it is alright.

Nine days of, I imagine, increasing insanity to come.

The taper officially started on Monday. Instructions from coach for this week are to run 60 to 75% of last week’s volume, at easy paces but with MP sections within each run. I began the week with a 60 minute run on Monday, followed by 50 minutes yesterday.

Strange things started happening on the drive home from work yesterday. I found myself taping my fingers, air-drumming and singing the whole way home. I had energy. I was HYPER! Only two days into the taper and my energy level has returned – and then some.

Suddenly, it hit me – I’d made it! I’d made it through the dedicated, hard work of training for the Regina marathon. Now, it’s all about healing and getting/staying healthy for race day.

It feels so good and motivating to not be tired!

Yesterday I remarked how I thought today’s run would not set any records. I thought that because, well, I’m tired from all the miles I’ve been logging and didn’t think I’d have anything in the tank for today’s run.

Apparently, I was wrong…

Distance: 21.52 miles
Time: 2:49:19
Pace: 7:52 minutes per mile
Average HR: 159 (targeting 150 to 160)
Weather: Perfect (cool with very little wind)

Not only does this long run blow away all long runs previous but it also felt GREAT the entire way.

Look out Regina! I’m officially tapering!!!
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Edit: Adding some details

First 9 miles = 7:57 min/mile
Next 9 miles = 7:43 min/mile
Last 3.5 miles = 8:02 min/mile (intentionally slowed down here)