New Shoes and a Wonky Knee

I bought a new pair of running shoes this weekend. Decided to go with the new model of my trusty Brooks Adrenaline GTS's. Best pair of running shoes I've ever had, so here's hoping the new model isn't so different.

I also managed to do something to my knee. Started running and my left knee felt funny. I stretched it and kept going. Then it became too painful to keep running, so I decided it was ok to stop running and give the knee a break. Unfortunately I was about a mile from the apartment when I decided this (stubborn me), and had to walk/limp the whole way back.

It's feeling a bit better today, so hopefully I'll put shoes to the pavement Monday or Tuesday.

TC Marathon Countdown: 161 days

An Accidental 5k

I run on Summit Avenue. Many people run on Summit Avenue. It is quite beautiful, and has a wonderful grass median for most of its length (I should post pictures). It also connects directly to the Mississippi River Parkway--also very nice.

This past Saturday, I set out for a longer run (~5 miles). About 1.5 miles into the run, I was approaching the University of St. Thomas along Summit, and there was a grouping of people under a big "Start" banner. I figured it was a race. As luck would have it, the gun went off the exact same time I passed the starting line. So, lo and behold, I found myself in a 5k!

Well, I was running on the grass, and they were on the tarmac. I had already run a mile and a half, and they were quite fresh, but it was exciting nonetheless. I stuck with them along the river parkway, but peeled off around their 2k marker. For this, I was rewarded with a Cranbrook-esque hill.

'Twas a fun 2 kilometers, and maybe I'll incorporate a 5k into my training this summer.

Registration Complete

I am officially registered for the Twin Cities Marathon. There's no going back now (especially since it cost $100!). The official training program starts June 1, and I can't wait.

13 Short Eastland Routes

I ran yesterday, and once again, that's not the big news. It was a great run, though: fifty degrees, sunny, lots of people out running and biking. But I digress.

I have decided that it is time to tackle one of my lifetime goals. I am a distance runner, and who can claim to be a distance runner if they don't run a marathon once in their life? So, that's what I'm going to do. On October 4, 2009, you will see me complete 26.2 miles in one of the most beautiful cities in the country. It certainly won't be easy, but I'm going to do it.

Thanks to Kelli for pointing me to a great training program, found here:

Hal Higdon's Marathon Training Guide

Here is the marathon's website if you're interested:

Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon

If you're in the Twin Cities on October 4, I would love to see you out on the course!

Twin Cities Marathon Countdown: 184 Days