Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Back to the Slush

The early part of the year is always a fun time for running. I get to say things like, "my fastest run of the year" or "my longest run" or "toughest" or what have you, as long as there is an "-est" suffix.

Last night, I went out for my longest run of the year, a whopping six-miler, which broke my previous longest just set on Sunday.

Personal scheduling changes forced me to switch up my previous pattern of three four-milers during the work week, and now I'm shooting for two six-milers to make up the difference as I get myself back into racing shape.

This change made Sand Run my best option, but that meant returning to the slow, snowy park trail. The crushed limestone surface was anything but solid. My footing was either soft and muddy or soft and slushy.

My YakTrax kept me upright, but my pace was dreadfully slow. I cracked 10 minutes per mile only once, and even then just barely (9:57). I am so ready for this season to be over and get back to better running terrain, but I know February is just around the corner.

8 comments:

The Sean said...

the best thing about winter running is having no other option than to run very slow... but for longer periods of time.

Jess said...

What is this snow and ie you speak of? Trust me, I wait all year to taunt you guys in the north in January and February, and it's always worth the wait!

BTW, that "est" ending is called the superlative form. You're welcome. I know your life was deficient before knowing that.

Jess said...

"ice"!

Dammit. My insults are less meaningful when not typed correctly!

B. Kramer said...

FAIL

C said...

You've endured running in these horrid winter conditions for years. How do you keep yourself from going crazy? Oh, wait...

Jess said...

I'm hoping the warm spell we're having in DC sticks around. I'm not ready to go back to real winter.

BrianFlash said...

February stinks. You might get some pre-springlike weather but typically it is the coldest month of the year.

When daylight savings cranks on, the good times begin!

Aileen said...

February is the true test. It's the month where you start to accept that Winter may go on forever. Good luck with the Yak Traks!