Over the past couple of months, I have been running a lot - training for the Philadelphia marathon - but it has been difficult accomplishing all of my runs. I have averaged close to 50 miles each week; but, in order to do so, I have been mixing it up between longer tempo runs, speed intervals, longer runs with fartleks, shorter easy stretch runs and the weekend long run. During the week, I run early in the morning, later in the afternoon, at night, during lunch - you get the idea.
My goal is to qualify for the Boston marathon. I can run no longer than 3:15:59 in order to have a chance - no longer than 3:10:59 in order to ensure my entry. So, throughout my training, I have been trying to strengthen my legs and my endurance, while trying to keep my speed.
A few weeks ago, I ran the Grace Race, sponsored by my church, Grace Community Church in Chelmsford, MA. The Grace Race is a 5 mile race through rolling streets that raises money for an orphanage in Naivasha, Kenya. (Shameless plug: check out www.gracerace.org for more information in preparation for next year's running.) This year was my first running. I came in 9th overall, 2nd in my age group, and 1st among the many church runners with a 31:33. It was 24 seconds slower than my PR for two reasons: my legs are not used to going as fast as before and it doesn't help when you run a silly 6:06 first mile. It was a fun race.
On another note, AJMac and I used to talk about starting a running club/ministry through our old church. Well, the organizer of the Grace Race and I have been talking and we may be starting one through my new church. I will keep you posted, but if it happens, AJMac will need to come up for our inaugural run.
On a final note, U-S-A! U-S-A! I hope you caught Meb Keflezighi become the first American marathoner to win the New York marathon in 27 years.
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