Preston Half Marathon 2012

No run today so I thought I would write a brief report on the first race I ran since getting back into running recently - the Preston Guild Half Marathon 2012.

After 12 weeks training on a low intensity program I was aiming to 8 minute mile the race.

On the day the weather was cold and very wet. I didn't manage to get near the start line so I started with the 2 hour group who obviously set off very slowly. The route started off down a dual carriageway which was quite fun as you could watch the front runners as they came back the other way.

The route then headed into the wind and out towards Blackpool. After about 8 miles the course turned around and with the wind behind me I was able to set a decent pace for the last five miles. The last mile was a bit unpleasant with lots of sharp turns and little hills. I managed to find some energy to race the last 100 metres into the town square to finish in 1:43:19.

Overall I found the distance quite comfortable and loved the atmosphere. I would definitely do this race again but as it was a special Guild event I may have to wait 20 years!

14 miles slow

The energy levels were better this morning and I managed an OK run doing the 14 miles in 1:42:00. That works out at under 7.20 pace. I did the half marathon distance in about 1:36 - faster than at the Wilmslow Half 6 weeks ago.

Feeling like you need to relieve yourself Paula Radcliffe style for half the run rather detracts from the enjoyment! That is another downside of early morning runs I guess - you set off before your systems are working properly!

4 miles race pace

Seemed to be lacking energy this morning. Maybe the curry last night did not help!

6.50
6.40
7.05
6.30
27.05

This route has a nasty hill on the penultimate mile which generally kills my times.

8 months ago I was doing this run in 29.30 so I shouldn't be too discouraged.

14 miles tomorrow. More energy please!

6 mile tempo

Nice hard tempo run on a blustery day.

6.45

6.40

6.50

6.45

6.40

6.40

40:20

Consistent splits and could probably have pushed a bit harder at the end so happy with that.

6 miles steady

6 miles on weary legs this morning.

7.20
7.00
7.05
7.05
7.25
6.50
42.45

This route has a hill on mile 5 that nearly killed me! Considering the hill and the headwind on the way back I was pleased with the negative split.

5 X 800m

Five 800m intervals on the track in gorgeous weather. Splits were:

3:00
2:47
2:56
2:56
3:20

Really ran out of steam for that last 800!

Had about 3 minutes walking and jogging between each interval.

Quite pleased to get under 2:50 but then at the weekend I spoke to a 14-year-old boy who ran it in 2:20 in a school race without any specific training! Now that is talent.

The training schedule I am following is Hal Higdon's Advanced Half Marathon program (you can Google it.) However I have increased the mileage and intensity a bit for an extra challenge!

35 minute recovery

Nice easy run down Happy Valley. I haven't measured the route but I probably did about 4.5 miles. I so need a Garmin! It is my birthday soon so hope springs eternal!

I love the alive feeling you get after these short easy runs.