Today I went for a run and pushed through to earn my last three miles on this tough long run. My Long Run Sunday included 16 miles this week, nothing fancy. All was great until 4am when gusty storms geared up to ruin my morning run. So, I waited until storms settled and hit the road around 11am, still sure I was beating the “sandwich” storms forecasted for the day. It was 78, cloudy, high humidity and 18mph-21mph winds. I was thankful it was not sunny and set off into the wind for my first four miles towards Seaside Park. The wind was a wall, but manageable as I went past a busy boardwalk. Just before I hit my turn around the sun came out, in full force. Heading north meant I was running with the wind, which brought me thoughts of coasting north to the end of my 16 miles. Wrong.
I hit the boardwalk for a quick break and noticed I had already gone through half of my water. I was drenched in sweat and already looking forward to stopping at the house to refill. At mile 8 I stopped to refill my water and search for motivation to continue — come on I was halfway done! The wind was on my back! I could jump on the ocean once I was done! — None of these helped.
I started my run determined to make it north to Bay Head. The boardwalk was crowded as I dodged walkers and checked off another mile. I turned towards 35 and began to make my hike north. My next mike I paused for cars, bikers, walkers and the heat. I was overheating fast. It was defeating. I hit 10 and stopped my watch. I took out my phone and sent a text to my husband indicating I wasn’t making 16 and bring water. Lately I have been running with garmin live, allowing him to track me and keep tabs on my progress. I sent another text indicating I was going to try another three miles.
I started up hoping I could at least get 13 miles in to count as a long run in my mind. It was hard. Music did not help, nor counting, focusing on my breathing or dreaming of a post beach dip – nothing. I looked down and my “keep the faith” bracelet brought some comfort. This was a tough run and I was pushing through it. I was not hurt or unable to move; just uncomfortable due to overheating. I had nothing to fear. This run would be over in three miles and then I could reflect on what to do better next time.
I completed two miles, turned around and was running into the wind again. Despite immediately slowing, the wind felt good and gave some relief from the sun. I kept putting one foot in front the other and kept moving. Just before hitting mike 3 I passed Shawn who was waiting in the car. I motioned I was almost done. He inched up and followed me until I hit my last mile. DONE.
That was tough. Mid-day summer runs are hot! I was fooled by clouds, but should have known better! As I collapsed in my seat chugging the iced cold water I tried not to beat myself up. This was an easy 16 miles, my third week of them – nothing crazy. I allowed myself a moment to reprimand myself for not running long Saturday and procrastinating until Sunday. But then I thought about the positives. My first 10 miles was a consistent pace and solid. I worked through discomfort, regrouped and finished. My run was not 16 miles, but I finished a 46 mile week, my highest this month, despite not finishing my long run. So, I try again. A new week and new chance to keep the faith. Faith in what will be.
Today I went for a run... 