This morning I did my first of three 20+ milers in preparation for the SEAFAIR marathon. It was just about as perfect a day as anyone could ask for to do a long run. The skies were overcast with temperatures in the low 60's. Ideal. In addition, I had the privilege of running along side Jeff, the Amazing Hip.
He's an awesome guy; humble, affable and easy going; a real pleasure to spend time with. We ran Jeff's home turf, the San Diego Creek Trail. Oddly, it's in Irvine, not San Diego as you might think. Jeff had suggested the route including two out and back sections of the trail with a stop in the middle for refueling, etc. Jeff ran with me for the first 8 miles, then he switched over to his bike and rode the next twelve. He called out the mile markers and told me when to turn around. He even reminded me to drink. He did everything within his power to make the run stress free for me.
All I had to do was run. And run I did. Usually on long runs I take a one minute walk break every mile. Today, I just ran and ran, with only a couple of short stops at water fountains. Jeff let me set the pace when he could have easily blown me off the course. He always stayed half step off to my side and even biked just to the side and behind me, so I wasn't tempted to push harder than I should. We talked the whole way, about blogging, bloggers, Boston, family, church,India, racing and running. Our average pace was just over 9 minute miles. Slow for him, but right on target for me. I was very satisfied that I was able to complete a 20 miler without my usual walking breaks. It got me a little excited about actually achieving the 4 hour marathon goal.
I'd have to say this was one of the most enjoyable 20 milers in a long time. Thanks, Jeff! I hope we can do it again sometime.
8 comments:
Yes, I believe you will hit your target and crack 4 hours. You can do it. You know, 20 miles is a long run - good job Darrell.
I think it must have cool to run and chat with Jeff...to have connected with him. Sounds awesome!
What a great meet-up! Having someone there to do support helps out SO much! You're going to do great in WA!
you were amazing out there yesterday, darrell. great job on your first 20 of the cycle. you looked strong and fresh the whole time.
it was great to meet up with you! i'll keep you posted on the schedule and hopefully we'll be able to do it again soon.
Wow, what an awesome, perfect, long run, Darrel. To have the amazing hipster with you, so soon after his solid Boston run, is way cool.
To do 20 at 9 is very significant. Should build confidence for you to shoot for the 4 hour marathon...hey, that's only a 9:09 pace!!!
Would have loved to have been a fly on the frame of the bike for all the conversations...what an awesome time!!
Oh what fun! And 9 minutes miles being slow for Jeff - yea - he's going to hate running slow with me! ;)
what fun, you got to meet jeff!!!
i am so excited for you, darrell. it sounds like it is all coming together for you at just the right time...way to go!!
Very pretty design! Keep up the good work. Thanks.
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