Wenatchee Loop Trail 20 MILES!!!!

I ran TWENTY miles on Sunday.
My legs, lungs, and heart carried me through!
Mostly--my MIND carried me through.
20 miles of paved trail winding along the Columbia River along the West side of Wenatchee.
I ran from the South end Foot Bridge, North to the Odebashen Bridge (5 miles) and back, twice. The weather was good.
Windy in spots.
Though I had to fight the wind resistance some, the temperature was perfect.

Mentally I stayed very focused--I guess occupied is the better descriptor.
I was able to keep thoughts focused on things other than how far I had to go!
I find that if I can do that I am better prepared for the length of time I'll be out there!

There were a couple of lonely stretches--particularly once I would reach Confluence Park. Running from Confluence to the Odebashen Bridge was very desserted both times I passed through. With the sound of the wind rustling in the trees, and the desserted path ahead, it was kind of eerie and desolate feeling. I was happy when I made the loop back to Confluence where Cory and his Mom (Josie) were waiting for my water stop!

My legs (quads) started to hurt around mile 18--though I don't want them to hurt--my threshold is building. They used to bother me much earlier. And it's less intense now, too.
The last half mile was the most difficult. I think I hit what people describe as "the wall", where my glycogen stores were mostly depleted.
I just had to keep telling myself "One foot in front of the other. One foot in front of the other".
I ran the entire way this time.
I finished in 3:33:02 (10:39/mile avg)

I had a wonderful post-workout meal at my Mom and Step-dad's place. It was the perfect recovery meal. All kinds of roasted peppers, tortillas, bean and corn salad, cucumber/radish salsa, fresh fruit. It was an excellent Mother's Day meal. Josie and my Grandpa Bowman joined Cory, my Mom, Ben, and I. Did I mention the Rhubarb cobbler? Did I mention Ben is an amazing cook? Did I mention how much I eat every time I go home? :-)

I was pretty pooped the rest of the day. I fought off taking a nap, but slept like a baby Sunday night.

This week is a recovery/ taper week.

The last couple of days have been difficult. Cory and I found ourselves in Wenatchee again Tuesday and Wednesday (yesterday) due to his Grandma Beuna's failing health. I will post more later. Please keep the Calhoun family in your thoughts as they are going through a difficult time.