One Second

Distance: 2 miles
Time: 18:01

Well, it was a new 2010 PR, but only by one measly second. I ran the same route that I ran twice last week (to be called the Nisqually Run from now on, based on the street it starts on). And both days I ran it last week I got an 18:02. Today, I ran it in 18:01. It's great to set a new record, and making progress of any sort is a good thing, but I was hoping so badly to get into the 17s. I felt pretty good for the majority of the run today. My legs felt strong (possibly from the hills I ran on Friday) and my breathing was okay (though far from where I'd like it to be). I didn't push the pace, though, and I probably could have. I kept a pace that I felt comfortable with, and with which I was able to give a good kick at the end. I'm literally at the cusp of breaking into the 17s, but unfortunately I still think I'm far from being ready for more mileage. It's one thing to break into the 17s (and hopefully 16s soon after), but I've got to keep my times there for awhile. I don't want to run in the 18s and 19s with an occasional 17. But luckily my body has been working with me these past couple of weeks. I didn't feel any soreness or pain on today's run, which simply makes it all so much more enjoyable. I'm hoping for a good August. If I keep up runs like today I think it will be. And I will need to end the summer strong so I can continue running into the fall and winter, something that proves to be challenging every year.