Running By Feel

Last Saturday, February 25^th Secretariat and I headed to the Auburn Overlook to participate in a memorial run.  The turnout was good and the participants brought all types of food for afterwards.  There was no official start time, and runners could run as many miles as they wanted.  The suggested course was to run from the Overlook in Auburn and then to Cool, turn around and then return for a total of about 16 miles.  The weather was a little on the chilly side, but who is complaining?

Secretariat and I arrived a little before 8:30 AM and began our run shortly thereafter.  After crossing No Hands Bridge we stopped at the aid station, filled our water bottles, and proceeded towards Cool.  As we approached the infamous”Training Hill”, I raised the question “does it make any sense to climb the hill?” Secretariat got out in front and began the climb and I followed.  Shortly thereafter, three young runners passed me.  That climb was never easy nor was it today.  After reaching the top, Secretariat was there waiting for me.  We then headed in the direction of the fire station In Cool.  Upon reaching the fire station, there we found an aid station posted by Bill Jackson for all the runners.  I referred to Bill as Roger, because Bill is an avid tennis player.   We got supplies and headed back on the trail, this time, avoiding the Training Hill. After leaving the aid station at No hands bridge, we headed in the direction of the Overlook.

I acknowledged my tiredness.  My Achilles was bothering me as well.  We did some walking, and then some running.  I felt better when I was walking.  We talked about the possible explanations as to why we were tired.  The explanations ranged from not drinking beer during the week to lots of previous running miles. In essence, it did not matter as to the “why “when in the present.  Paying attention to your body is what counts.  There was not much motivation to continue running, for me, under these circumstances.  Walking was okay at that point.

I arrived back at the Overlook after Secretariat who already started eating.  I changed out of my wet running jersey into dry clothes, and then had a delicious lunch.  Soon after, we left for home.  That evening, I rested, iced my Achilles, went to bed early and took ibuprofen. The next morning I felt good and was without discomfort.  Sunday, I rested and walked about 2 miles.  I plan to run Monday. I must add that, my next race, the Way Too Cool, 50 K., is just a few weeks away and in my thoughts.