How 15 becomes 20

RUN: 20 miles in 3:16

I was short on time (again!). Also, there is a very good correlation between how little time I have and how late I am in getting these logged. And a strong dis-correlation between how little time I have and how detailed I get in these logs. But I'm trying.

The original goal was a 1:45 run, 1:00 bike, :45 run. But other duties called. So I took out the bike, thinking I might get it in later. For now, just do 2.5hrs of running. So the plan changed to 3 x ~6 miles loops from the house, with the loops allowing me to refuel and get used to the idea of passing the finish line and going back out for more. Since the IMWI finish line is right next to the run turn around, I'm readying for that mental anguish.

So I took off with the FuelBelt containing about 300 calories of the new LL PB drink. No gels, I figured my breakfast of fruit and powerbar would get me into the first loop OK. About 3 miles from home, I was feeling pretty good and changed my plans again. Now I would go out about 6 miles, go back home, simulate the turnaround at 13 miles, and go back out for a few more. 6 miles came up and I changed again. Feeling really really good, I kept going. To FP, to Wydn, to Hnly, and back to FP. The day hadn't heated up yet, the sun was still rising, a light mist in the air, and lots of shade on my route. Feeling really damned good.

At 15.6 miles, I was 1.5 miles from home and near TGP. I was toying with the idea of doing a full 20, which would be my first and likely only one for IMWI. I still had 1 FB of drink left (abt 100 calories, meaning I'd taken in only 200 calories!). Apparently, the low blood sugar fuzzed my thinking, because I kept right on going after realizing a loop of TGP would put me at 20. Still feeling good, but wanting to walk more and getting a little sloppy. And it was starting to get warm.

I hit 20 still feeling good. My quads were a little tingly, the bottoms of my feet sore, and my stomach growling like mad since about mile 18. Quick shower, banana, Ensure, quick errand, then stuffed 2 eggs with cheese down. Off to the picnic!

Here's where things went wrong. I was drinking water, and more water and more water, in 32oz servings x 4. No bathroom break. And I stayed outside in the heat, so I was sweating. This combination of fatigue, heat, and dehydration killed off any appetite I had. It was a few hours before I ate again, and even then it was just watermelon. I tried some dried fruit and nuts, but it didn't settle well. More watermelon and some fruit. Nothing else!! 7 hours or so later I get home and I'm feeling great and awful at the same time. I knocked down 20 miles today with no problems but I'm sick to my stomach and tired. What a mix. What a rush!!