Running with Jack

Yesterday I went for a shorter 45 minute run, about 8K/5M, at an average pace of 5:30/K (8:51/M). I reduced the mileage slightly this week in anticipation of a longer training run on Sunday (tomorrow). I have wanted to test my run/walk strategy that I plan on using for the 50K race on May 25, so am participating in the Northern Black Forest Marathon. This marathon, along with a HM and 10K race, are being held by the Nordic Walking Club in Egenhausen, a small town in the northern Black Forest.

What makes this event different is that it is primarily a Nordic Walking event, but is also open to runners and walkers. There is no mass start, participants can start anytime between 8-11 a.m. Participants will be individually timed. There are no prizes, no age groups, everyone who finishes will receive a certificate with their finishing time printed on it. There are aid stations set up along the way with drinks, fruit and sports bars.

This will be just another long run for me, only a little further than normal. I will use the same 30 minute run/3 minute walk strategy that I have been training with over the last couple months. This has worked well during my long runs up to 3 hours 15 minutes, tomorrow I will see how it works with the marathon distance. It is important for me to continue with my training on Tuesday, so I will add as much walking as I feel I need to. I am not placing the run under any time constraints, I be done when I’m done.

The marathon route is supposed to be a mixture of forest trails, gravel roads and some asphalt bike paths. The elevation gain is less than I had expected, only 100 meters (around 300 feet), so it should be a relatively easy run compared to the hilly long runs I have been doing. In any case I will post a report on Sunday night or Monday. Have a nice weekend!