12.4

Last Sunday, I ran the Sturgis Falls Half Marathon in Cedar Falls. We woke up to a stormy day, but it stopped raining about 10 minutes before race time. I didn't know it until after the race, but the course was actually 12.4 miles rather than 13.1 due to flooding. I thought I had a pretty good time, but when I realized the course was short, I was less impressed.

I have to say I felt good the entire time. I was strong at the end and my splits got faster as I went along, so I can't complain. My time was 2:01 on my GPS, although I think my official time was about 2:02. My goal in August is to break 2 hours for a half. I won't be devastated if it doesn't happen though. A year ago at this time I was unable to run because of knee issues, so just being able to do these races is really enough for me.

The Wednesday after the race I had a minor setback when I somehow hurt myself tying my shoe. All I can say is that I think I tried to start moving before I really stood up. My knee felt like it was going to give out. I took that day off and ran short and easy the next day. I think I'm doing okay with it now.

Yesterday I ran 10 miles--about half of it was in pouring rain. I have never been so drenched in my life. I was annoyed that my shoes and socks were soggy, but other than that it was okay. I also worried about the Zune but it appears to be fine.

I figured out that for my long runs I can get to the entrance of Hartman Reserve/George Wyth in about 2.5 miles. I can go out and hop on the 218 trail--not sure why I didn't think of this route before. I really enjoy running out there. I do wish there were drinking fountains though. If you ask me, there is a huge shortage of drinking fountains on the trails. You can make tax-deductible donations to the organizations that maintains the trials. I've been thinking about doing that, but I would like to specify that my money go toward a fund for drinking fountains. I can carry water with me on long runs. I'm just lazy, I guess, and don't like to think ahead.