Training Log Archive: ParkSchool

Well, after my aggressive run yesterday, Sydney had to drag my sorry ass through the woods today. In point of fact, I hadn't really slowed down to her speed, but I sure wasn't sprinting ahead and doubling back either. Was really stiff, and it didn't get better as the run progressed. But at least I kept my feet moving the whole time and worked up a bit of a sweat. Sydney was actually a bit faster today. Perhaps having me constantly in her sight provided some additional motivation.

Weather perfect, recent training limited, and no events on horizon for the weekend, so tried again for a PR, this time on my route circumnavigating Needham. Felt a bit stiff at start, but by second third of the route, I really felt as if I was stretching out my stride nicely. Carried a good effort all the way to end, and was hence quite depressed to find myself 2 full minutes off my record pace from last summer. I can attribute perhaps 45 seconds to delays occasioned by inconvenient traffic at the major intersections, but that still leaves a big drop-off in performance. Perhaps my more aggressive training will still yield results in the upcoming months, but I may have to recognize that deteriorating performance with age is a well documented phenomenon.

Usual jog in place, although did about 1/2 mile at full speed in 200-300 m intervals before doubling back to wait for Sydney.

In middle of 3 straight overnights starting after weekend of O at West Point, but weather just too nice not to take out dogs. Done at standard glorified jog in place pace. Sydney a bit more perky today. She may have a few more months left, but I keep thinking that every time I go out with her it may be the last time.

Finally, a good run. Actually, almost a great run. Was able to read map much more effectively than on previous day. Made one dubious route choice on second long leg (8-9) opting to try to go straight S through mountain laurel, then executed it poorly by allowing myself to drift W and drop into an essentially impenetrable swamp. The damage was probably in the 5-6 minute range. I then overcompensated on the following leg taking longer run on trail rather than easier direct route. Nevertheless, finished comfortably in top half in M45 and quite competitive with many who routinely finish ahead of me. A good day to revive some confidence in my skills.

Classic Red - Splits