Icy Prep Run for the F^3 Half: No Skittles Required

Last Sunday's long run included a big hunger bonk about 2 miles into the run. Before I ran this morning, I ate a blueberry bagel with cream cheese and peanut butter. I washed it down with a little coffee, and this time I was able to run 12 entire miles without seeing those scary bright orange spots like I did last week. However, I did put a bag of "Riddles" Skittles in my pocket in case of emergency (I also always carry GU, but sometimes it doesn't do the trick as well as Skittles)!

"Riddles Skittles" my new emergency candy

My goal this morning was to push myself semi-hard on a long run to prepare my legs for the F^3 Half Marathon.  So, I got a good pace going early and did not stop to take pictures.

Taken on the run:
I was running a good pace, so no stopping to take pictures

  The weather was nice. It was about 30 degrees outside, but last night it rained, so some of the trail was a little icy. While running on the Lakefront Trail it started sleeting/snowing and it seemed to all collect on my sunglasses, which made it hard to see!:

Ice covered sunglasses after my run

I feel like I had a quality, long, hard workout in wintry conditions. This gives me hope that I am in shape for running a good race in two weeks.

Total Run: 12 miles @ 7:21/mile

The Start of Boston Marathon Training Week #5

I'ts hard to believe week 5 out of 18 is already here! There are less than 100 days until the Boston Marathon. Anyway, here's how the first day of week 5 went:

Morning Run: I got out late for my Sunday morning long run, and about 1.5 miles in I started seeing bright orange spots when I closed my eyes, I realized about 1/2 mile later that I had already hit the "hunger wall" about 2 miles into my run.  I was about two blocks from the Lakefront Trail and I had a "Gu" along in my belt, which I ate, but I felt I needed something of more sustenance. Luckily, I was in the city and there is a convenience store seemingly on every corner. The one in Park Place Tower had a tremendous assortment of candy and energy bars. I opted for a chocolate Nature Valley granola bar and a bag of Skittles. After eating said items, I felt completely normal again and continued on my run! Lesson learned: If I run after 9am, I need to eat breakfast before my run, (oh yeah, and thank God for Skittles)! 12 miles @ 8:03/mile

Eagle Statue near Diversey Harbor

Skyline from Diversey Bridge

Sunny Path

Runner and Lake

Evening Run: An easy run around Welles Park. No "bonking" this time! 4.25 miles @ 7:08/mile

Welles Park