Bouncing Back

Things are begining to come together. After nearly three weeks of inconsistent training, antibiotics and painkillers, I think I am finally bouncing back.

The first big test was the Trail Mix 25K last weekend. I had planned to just show up and run and see what would happen. I wanted to keep my average pace under 9:30/mile, which seemed realistic being that I had not done a run over 45 minutes in three weeks. Well the gun went off and away we went. Iron Jenny, TriMama, and Taconite Boy were among the many racers out that day. I went out a little hard the first mile or so and backed off to a smooth pace. The course was great, lots of hills and all on soft trails. I cruised at a steady effort for the first 5 miles. The miles were not marked except for at the aid stations, so at mile five I was able to get my first split. 40mins... What? Was I really rolling at 8:00 pace? After that shock I decided to not look at my splits anymore, and just focus on staying smooth and keeping my HR under control. The rest of the race felt great, I never hit a wall, and I finished feeling like I could have held that pace for a long time. Finish time: 25K 2:03 7:58/mile. I really didn't think I had put in the time yet for that kind of pace. It was a great confidence boost!!!

I think that my run is on pace with where I want to be at Ironman Zurich. Not real sure about my bike though. I need to put in a lot more time in the saddle.

However, saddle time is coming this weekend. The Minnesota Ironman Bike Ride is this Sunday. That will be the first century for me this year and a real test off where my bike fitness is at. Are there any local Bloggers heading out for the ride? They have great hot dogs!!!