Monday, April 7, 2008

Less Than A Week!

With less than a week to go, I'll admit that I am getting a bit jittery at times, but overall, still at peace about the race. Our weekend was absolutely gorgeous, sunny and highs of 61 and 60 Saturday and Sunday. I got in a final mid-long run Sunday of 8 miles. I felt pretty well, same knagging leg pain, but again it subsides a bit as I get into my runs around mile 5. My knees and hips were protesting a bit and my leg muscles, mostly quads, got a bit fatigued, which is unusual. I think this is just the reduction in my consistent higher mileage running. All things considered, it was good run on a glorious day and I was pleased with it and being able to run in shorts and a t-shirt!

All that I have remaining training-wise this week are a 3 mile run on Tuesday, a 4 mile run on Wednesday, a 2 mile run on Saturday, and then the marathon on Sunday. They have early registration packet pick-up, where you get your race number bib and race goodies, at Dave's Performance Footgear, the local running shop where Tammy and I got our last pair of shoes, this Wednesday and Thursday evenings. I think I'll head out there on Wednesday since Thursday is Tammy's birthday, her 40th, and we're having her parents over for dinner. I also need to pick up a box of Powerbar Gels and a low cut pair of Wright Sock running socks for the race. I ran yesterday in regular "no-show" footies cause my running socks were dirty and the bottom of my feet were sore.

I'll probably drive the course sometime this week as I meant to do that this past weekend, but ran out of time, to get an idea of "the lay of the land" of the course. Perhaps I'll do that later today. It's supposed to be beautiful again today with a possible high of 70! Forecast for race day as of now is starting time it should be in the low 30's with a high of 44 and a chance of rain. Sounds perfect to me provided the chance of rain remains just that. A light drizzle would be ok, but an all out rain would not. Not much I can do about that aspect of the race though.

I am really anxious to hear how Sara did yesterday at her St. Louis Marathon! I was thinking about and praying for her all weekend. So, come on Sara! Get that race report posted. The suspense is killing me!

11 comments:

jtj3 said...

Rick I'll be thinking about you and your upcoming race this entire weekend! How exciting. Enjoy it for all its worth--you never get to run another "first marathon". Run conservatively--just worry about finishing and don't set a target time. And draw energy from the crowds--the race will be lined with spectators, and get a high five or a shout-out whenever you can!

Oh...and run with perseverance, too. (C;

Rick said...

Thanks, Jim. My plans, exactly. Especially the running with perseverance. You'll be in my thoughts... like, "Dang! I wish Jim were suffering through mile 23 and not me at this moment!" Hehe.

Sara McCarty said...

I'm so excited for your race this weekend!! You've been training for this for so long. You're going to do awesome!! Any chance Cassy will be there to cheer you on? If not, I'm sure she'll be in your thoughts those last 6.2 miles. She's very lucky to have you in her life. And happy early birthday to Tammy - make sure you get her something extra special. Our significant others sure do put up with a lot from us crazy runners!

Rick said...

Thanks, Sara and... CONGRATULATIONS Marathoner!! WHOOT!

The girls and I did get Tammy something special, but I can't say since she lurks my blog. :-X

Cassy lives in San Antonio and will not be at the race, other than in spirit with me. She'll certainly be one of my driving forces for the latter part of the race.

Congratulations again and, rest well!

Jennifer said...

Rick, I'm so excited for you! Sounds like you are more than ready...race day will take care of itself. Praying for your endurance and a fun time. ;) you are gonna do GREAT!!!

Rick said...

Thank you Jennifer. You are in my thoughts and prayers as well.

Alan said...

Not much longer now!!!

Are you full of energy and excitement? I love race week- all of the excitement of finishing up last minute details and getting out for nice, enjoyable runs just knowing the race is a few days off.

Mike Fox said...

Rick - I'm getting excited for you as well.

Good luck this weekend! I can't wait to read all about it!!!!

Rick said...

Thanks Alan and Mike! I am excited - and nervous - Alan. The runs this week have been supremely enjoyable and, I am very much looking forward to the whole race experience. Hopefully I'll have a good report to post, Mike.

Tim Wilson said...

Rick, You are on the brink of becoming a marathoner!

Good luck with the race, you will do great!!

Rick said...

Thank you, Tim! I hope I do as well as you did with your half! Don't forget... Grand Rapids, MI, 10/19/08... just sayin'...