There is a definite difference between running to finish, even if that means finishing with a decent time, and RACING. I feel completely prepared to race a half-marathon and actually think I could do it in about 1:40. I’m guessing this because today I ran 14 km in 1:10 after strength this morning, having biked 20km and ran 5km yesterday, and doing my last long run of 35km on Sunday. Despite this, RACING the marathon seems much more intimidating; somehow once I get past the 25km point I have some sort of mental block that moves from potential racing mode to “just keep on chuggin” mode, which is significantly slower. I know that this mental block can be combatted, I used to have this same block for the 1/2 marathon distance, but I am realizing how much work its going to take! I have come a long way, but still have a LOT of work in front of me to train for the 777. In the meantime, let the Ottawa Marathon taper begin!
