I So Want a Garmin

I finally got my long run in... and I'm feeling more prepared for the half-marathon in 2 weeks. As I was underway, I planned a route that I estimated to be somewhere between 13 and 14 miles. My assumption was that it was closer to 13 and I was feeling confidant about my pace.

I ran along the D.River Trail to the new BH bridge, where upon I continued for an additional 2.43 miles around the old mill district (this part of the route has been measured and there are signs along the trail that state the exact mileage). I run the trail portion frequently (generally every Thr) and I know that it is about 5.92-6.0 miles. To connect the two portions, I'm guessing I have to run at least another .5 miles.

When I get to the half-way point (again, I'm guessing where that point may be), I hit the split button on my watch, 41:17. When I get back home again, I hit the split button again, 41:56. At this point, I'm guessing I have covered about 9 miles at an approx. 9.11 pace.

I then add on another short loop (one I do rather regularly) that I know is 4 miles. I've even marked this route in mile increments, and therefore know that I ran the first mile of this loop in 8:00 flat! Cool. I start to wonder if I can maintain this pace for the next (and final) three. I try... but start to feel sluggish my the 3rd mile.

When I get home, my split for the last 4 miles was 35:42. An average pace of 8.55. A negetive split! 13 miles in 1:58:57. Sweet!

I'm feeling quite spent... I know I pushed myself and I'm feeling very fatigued. All I want to do is lay down and take a nap, but that isn't possible as DH (who also spent 3 hours working out on the slopes earlier this morning) also wants to nap and it is my turn to watch the kiddos. Too bad, the kiddos don't nap much themselves anymore. It would've been nice to all lie down together for some zzzzzz's.

So, instead... I log on and check the route (once again - I check everytime I run - even if it is the same course I've ran in the past - I'm nerotic that way) on America's Running Routes. It reports the route measures 12.6 miles. Huh!? That stinks. So now my pace for the first 2/3 turns out to be 9.37. Still a negative split but not as good overall. I wish I had had a Garmin tell me this on route. I could've run a tad more...pushed a tad harder.