Bursting at the seams

Really. I am SO EXCITED. It is hard to think about work, life, etc. I am thinking about BOSTON, baby. And it is hard to contain.

My training certainly has had its ups and downs, but as Lloyd asked me from the get go: Do you want great training or a great race? Indeed. And appropriate to consider at this juncture. Despite having a tough time getting going, I am feeling strong now. And I am feeling a great race coming on.

I had my last "workout" this morning. On tap was 4x1200 meters at tempo pace with 1 minute recoveries. I had the option to do the last at MP. The point of the workout was to feel that familiar tempo one last time so I could use it during my race. Specifically, if I felt that tempo effort, time to put on the brakes. Familiarity was key.

First one was hard to get into the groove because I started out too fast. But once I got into a rhythm, it felt good. I paid close attention to my breathing and my effort. Second one was the same way. Fluid and strong. I felt good. Last one was almost entirely uphill (slight incline, but I could definitely feel it) and I tried to maintain focus on effort rather than pace. (7:19, 7:19, 7:23).

I decided to hit my last interval at marathon pace to feel that effort and to make myself hold back even more. I even started at the top of a hill much like the Boston start. It was hard to hold back, but I did. And again, I paid close attention to my breathing and my effort. A couple times during the last interval I felt like I must be going way slow. I'd look at my Garmin and was happily surprised each time. Sweet.

I hope I feel this good on race day. My plan is to go out on effort (but being sure to check the Garmin so I don't go too fast). I want to hold back in the early miles so I can get through those Newton hills without dying (seriously). I am hoping I will end up in the 3:25-3:30 range, but again, am going to really go by effort and feel rather than having a set time goal or PR goal.

Bring it!