MHM -45/long one -- Thu. Aug. 26

The long run I've been planning a good while -- not sure if it was the best idea, but I'm itching to push a bit on my limits. Up in time to head out by 7:15 (feeling pretty creaky, I'll have to say), and start on planned route: two laps, first one a glorified reverse Enfield, with just over 400' climb and similar descent, then out to Goodell on Federal, and home via Orchard, Metacomet, and Hamilton; also close to 400' climb and similar descent. Decided after a slow first mile (8:30+) to go without a stretch stop, just chugging, with a goal of 7:45~8:15 overall pace. First lap went comfortably, and I took one GU (triple berry flavor, w/ caffeine) at 9 mile point, along with water. Running gently meant I had no hunger at that point; I'd had a mug of tea and a quarter PB sandwich before going. Stopped clock at house for pit stop, refill water, and grab second GU, then straight back out; felt a bit clunky at that point, and the second lap in general was much less comfortable, and probably a bit slower (must check). Overall pace stayed pretty similar, and I took the second GU at 18 miles, at Metacomet. The last four miles were uncomfortable: sore in various points, and the last mile I was chugging slowly with sore feet and beginning to get tired. Here's the overall data:

Time: 2:51:31
Distance: 22.01 miles
Pace: 7:48s

Comment: Probably the first lap was a bit over-paced; I need to go over splits to see. But also, 22 miles is still a push for me at any pace. I'll get one or two more long runs in before Oct., and eventually I'll get used to them. Conditions were *fine* for this run, btw, as the sun came out and the morning was lovely early fall...