Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Hard Work


I guess I will try to get packed up tonight for Rocky. It will be a bit in the warm side but very close to last years temps. I am really looking forward to getting on the plane and on the way. I am still not sure what I will be doing for Hydration. I have a single bottle Go Lite waist pack I may use with a handheld to start. Last year I ran with my Nathan HPL pack which worked well, I was able to go the 1st loop without having to stop and refill. I will likely try the 1st loop with the GOlite and switch if needed.
I am really amazed how much I have accomplished in 11 weeks. I went from being 198 lbs, running about 50/week to logging 1115 miles the next 11 weeks and dropping about 21 lbs. I really think the few months of low mileage helped to recharge everything.
Today I think I am in the best shape of my life. I had a thorough body fat and composition done yesterday. My body fat was 5.8% which is the lowest it has ever been. My hips waist and butt were about 1 inch lower than my previous lowest measurements. I weighed in at 177-178 lbs, a new low for me. Mentally I am focused and ready, I know it is going to be rough, it will hurt and there will likely be times when I feel like stopping. I will have mental lows, leg cramps, stomach issues, blisters, toenails falling off and who knows what else....I can't wait.

I know my splits from last year but will not wear a watch to track them. Last year Rocky was my best race ever, it all clicked. I have done my best to put myself in a position to have a good race. I am just going to go what pace feels right and see where each loop ends up. I need to get 60 miles strong. Rick will be able to pull me through the dark on those last 2 loops. John will be right behind me trying to catch me the entire time, even though he will be 700 miles away at home, he will still be there ........pushing me.

I can't wait for Breakfast on Sunday!!

2 comments:

cherie said...

I wish I was running Rocky. I thought abt it, but would have to fly out Sunday night to get back to work in time. I'm still SO tempted to just fly out there and do it (have enough training under my belt) but have been sick with horrendous cold since Sunday. Good luck, and I'll be thinking of all you lucky Rocky runners!

Olga said...

Gabe, go get it, man! And lost 21 lbs? 5.8% fat?? Can you give me hint, please? LOL! You are awesome, I am rooting for you!