12 weeks to Austin - Testing my limits

There are just under 12 weeks to go until Austin. I completed this past week's schedule exactly as planned and hit all 55 miles. I ran the Pfitz mileage to a "T". This was a much welcome stepback week.

For this week, I will see a significant jump in mileage. Pfitz puts 69 miles on the docket for the week.

Adding to the challenge is the fact that I decided to throw a little cross-training into the mix. Last night, I filled in on my co-worker's hockey team for a game last night.

Hockey is one of my first passions. Over the past few years, I have pushed hockey aside to concentrate on running. I decided that I wanted to have a little fun last night. And it was fun.

However, I will say that is challenging right now to have forfeited my only rest day for a game of hockey right before a 69-mile week. But that's where I am. I suppose it didn't help that I was forced into sharing a few beers with the guys afterward somewhat late night. Nevertheless, it was fun.

I didn't see any ill effects today. Tonight's 10-miler went perfectly. After a 1-mile warm-up, I cruised through the 5-mile tempo run at an average of 6:25 per mile, with an extremely strong finish. I then trotted the final 4 in 7:50's.

I admit that my legs are sore right now. Not to mention my hip from a fall on the ice I took last night. I could use a little rest. That's why I'm going to bed momentarily.

The rest of the week will be a crunch with a long drive to Pittsburgh and, of course, the family commitments that come along with the holiday. But I will try to hold the schedule.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

This week's plan:

Mon - 10 miles w/5 at LT -- COMPLETED
Tue - 14 miles - Drive to Pittsburgh
Wed - 5 miles recovery
Thu - 11 miles
Fri - 8 miles w/ 8x100m strides
Sat - 21 miles long
Sun - Drive home to Chicago

GOAL MILEAGE: 69 miles after a hockey game!