Tried to get up in the morning, but my back was very sore so I slept in until 9:00 and loaded up on IBUProfen. Got up, did some chores to try to loosen my back up, which included pushing a lawn mower around for a while--big mistake. I had the kids finish mowing. My back was and is sore.
In the afternoon, I got ready for the run. When I started it really hurt. I thought I may only make it about a half mile, and then walk home. I started out slow, about 8:45 pace. At about a half mile, my back started loosening up, but still was sore and hurt, but felt ok to run. I slowly sped up my pace to 7:45 / mile, but didn't dare go any faster. I ran from Smithfield down to the road in-between Smithfield and Hyde Park, then turned and went up Smithfield Canyon. I got to the campground at mile 10, stopped and drank a water bottle I placed, and ran back on the same route. I drank three water bottles I had placed.
While coming back, I passed a few hundred runners starting up Smithfield Canyon from MAC Park doing a 5K. Surprized me--I didn't know they were having one.
I completed the 20, but this was the most painful run I've done. I averaged about 7:55 / mile, and was happy about it because I don't think I did any more damage to the back.
Three weeks until a marathon. I don't think I will do a full three week taper. I will probably try a two week taper and see how it goes. I'll take the next few days really easy and see how it goes.
Was glad to hear Conner had a great 1600 and 3200 today at the Davis Invitational. | 