If you look on the right side of my blog you can see the races I've done. So far this year I've attempted 9 races of marathon or longer distance. THREE of those resulted in the dreaded DNF. I had never had a DNF until Rocky Raccoon this year and that seemed to start a mini-avalanche. How am I going to stop this from accelerating?
I will be the first to admit that my training hasn't been as intense this year as it was last year. Last year at this time I was running 50-70 miles a week. Right now a good week has me topping out at just under 50 miles. Last year I weighed about 5 pounds less than I do right now. Finally, I've tried some races that were more of a challenge.
The good news is, two of my next four races are impossible to DNF. They are time events, so as long as I complete one lap of the course, I'll be credited with a finish. Of course, I'd like to get at least an ultra distance while I'm out there. The other two races will both be challenges. The first is the Cumberland Trail 50k. It is a tough course that starts out with a 2000' climb, but it has fairly generous cutoffs. The other challenge will be the Javelina Jundred in November. I have finished this one, but no 100 mile race is a given.
Now, my plan. It's simple. Lose the weight I've gained plus a couple of extra pounds. Run more miles and get my average over 50 miles per week again. Try to do one "speed" workout every week which can be in the form of intervals, a tempo run, or hills.
The plan is simple, now I just have to get my act together.
Growing up and growing out.
2 weeks ago
2 comments:
I had to chuckle a little because I was thinking the same thing about 2011 and my running. Looks like you have a great plan. I think the fact you start races is brave and admirable - whether you DNF or finish. You are making the most of things by trying! Good luck with your goals!
Joja. When you attempt extraordinary things, something you will fail. You are so focused on the DNFs, which by my count represent less than half of your successes. Focus on what you did do, and don't be so hard on yourself.
Meanwhile, yes, losing weight does help. But it isn't everything. Some things we just aren't quite ready for. Yet. So we strive. But remember to focus on the successes.
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