Action Shot: 10 mile training run

Taken near mile seven of my ten mile training run at Independence Grove forest preserve, Libertyville, IL.

A run of 10 miles is daunting. As I stood at the beginning of the trail that was to take me completely around Independence Grove, down the Des Plaines river trail, and back, I wondered if it was possible. The sun was out, and the wind was blowing at an incredible 35 mph, and it was a bit cool out. The most I've run before this was 9 miles in Chicago.

I couldn't believe how powerful that wind was. Running 10 miles is one thing, but fighting a 35mph wind while TRYING to complete it is another. I swear I could of put my arms out and have been lifted into the air. It was one of the more difficult things I've done.

But I did it.

I've never felt such relief or sense of accomplishment. I finished in one hour and thirty nine minutes. I walked for two minutes during the run to take a power gel and a drink, but otherwise I ran the whole thing. I'm constantly surprising myself.

The May 18 Rockford half-marathon is less that 22 days away. Holy crap! I have two 11 milers to do before then, and then it's race time. I'm looking forward to it with nervous anticipation.

Right now my legs are tired, and my left quadricep is a bit sore. My feet and knees have held up surprisingly well, but I think I'll be retiring my trusty running shoes after Rockford.

Those shoes and I have been through a lot. Perhaps I'll have them encased and hang them on my wall.

Yup, I'm a nerd like that.