3 easy miles of running. I am a big believer in the taper. I believe that any real running the week of the marathon is only going to slow me down. A few miles here and there is all thet is need to keep me loose.
Originally I wanted to run the marathon in 2:30. It's probably not a realistic goal. I am not hoping for something in the 2:32-2:33 range. 2:30 is still a possibility, but I'm not getting my hopes up. Here's my reasoning: Last year I did Chicago in 2:39. I think it was hot enough that day to slow me down 3-4 minutes. With my current downhill running skill St George is probably 2-3 minutes faster than a flat course. My training this year is about the same as I did last year. A little more mileage, but probably a little less quality. There are always intangibles, but 2:32 seems like the "A" goal. 2:35 as the "B" goal and anything over 2:37 is a "bummer".
Weather is always a factor, and it is predicted to be windy saturday, but the hourly forecast has ideal temps in the 40's and only 5 MPH winds. |