Saturday, November 07, 2009

My Strawberry Banana 18-Miler

Oh what a run I had this morning! Whoo hoo! It was awesome. I woke at 5:05 AM, ate a good breakfast, then hit the start button at 6:02. And we're off!

I stashed a supply of Gatorade and banana halves behind the entrance sign to my subdivision. This was to be a "dress rehearsal" in terms of nutrition, so I finally got off my duff and got some gels. I really want to be a gel person. I mean, you can't get much more convenient than gels: easy to pack/carry, easy to discard/store on the run, no preparation time. So I hoped for the best. I purchased PowerBar Strawberry Banana Gel, which was all that was available at my local grocery store. YUM.

Today I was to use the 7:3 method (run 7 minutes, walk 3 minutes) for the first time. I ran west for 3 miles, then turned back towards the stash/neighborhood entrance. I took a gel at 3.65 miles. When I got to the stash I ate a banana half and replaced my Gatorade bottle. Then I headed east. When I got to 9 miles I took another gel. I got back to the stash at 12 miles and again had a banana half and replaced the Gatorade. Easy as pie! The miles just clicked away. I headed west once again and easily made it to 15 miles, which was gel time. I also stopped to use the restroom at a convenience store. I didn't have to go, but I figured it wouldn't be a bad idea. The stopping stiffened up my legs a bit, but I got home eventually. When I sent Chasen a text at mile 15 he responded "Almost home. Keep going or I'll get my spatula!" That is a reference to the movie "Run Fat Boy Run," which I find to be hilarious (and about running).

While I ran 18 miles in very good form, the half mile or so walk from the stash to my house nearly killed me. My poor legs!

Mile 1: 13:22
Mile 2: 12:59
Mile 3: 13:10
Mile 4: 13:02
Mile 5: 12:36
Mile 6: 12:39
Mile 7: 13:12
Mile 8: 12:46
Mile 9: 12:26
Mile 10: 13:50
Mile 11: 12:19
Mile 12: 12:22
Mile 13: 12:41
Mile 14: 13:27
Mile 15: 12:46
Mile 16: 12:59
Mile 17: 13:46
Mile 18: 12:28
Total: 3:52:58
Average: 12:57 per mile (plenty good to meet the 6-hr limit at Rocket City!!!)

Even though I felt like was eating every 2 seconds, I got hungry out there. I munched on gummy bears along the way, also. Hmm! Any thoughts?

We went to the Memphis Zoo yesterday. Here, Isaac shares Meagan's blanket.

What a crew! We could have a stroller fashion show.

How you doin'???

"I am wearing my Razorbacks jersey in honor of my Daddy."

Now I have some very, very big news to report. Brace yourselves... I have lost ALL of the baby weight! Now I have to attack the torn tendon chub...

Here is my nifty weight graph. I hope you can read it!

Have a great week everyone. I'm on cloud nine!

13 comments:

Anonymous said...

Woo-hoo! What a great run! Also, terrific work on the weight loss. What an accomplishment!

Running Diva Mom said...

Congrats on your long run ... it sounds like you strategized well! I really loved the stroller photo too -- too funny!

Mom on the Run said...

Congrats on your run - fantastic job. Plus, way to go on the weight loss!!!

lizzie lee said...

Super congratulations on your 18-miler. I had almost forgotten what is to race that distance. My marathon plan will start in January. The gels work wonder for me. I take one 15 min before a long run and then every 45 min. I've read it must be w/water, and never have them with Gatorade. Agree on having something to munch because sometimes the stomach ask for solid. So is your race in Huntsville? Congrats again for your long run, you are there, and you have made it!!!

The strollers' picture is amazingly beautiful.

Road Warrior said...

Congrats, Susan! You're getting a lot faster and smart move to test out the race nutrition. You're gonna rock this marathon!

Karina said...

FANTASTIC run, Susan! I'm so thankful--these confidence-building runs can't come often enough! I'm glad you're feeling ready for Rocket City--you're sure to rock it! Hey, good work on the weight loss, too! And it looks like Isaac is getting all of it--that little man is lookin' big . . .

Petraruns said...

Wow! Well done girl on the run (GREAT work) and the weightloss - I KNOW how hard it is so you have done an amazing job..

MarathonChris said...

Great job on your run!!! And congrats for getting rid of all the baby weight. Took me 13 months! :-)

You are rockin the run!

Unknown said...

Congratulations Susan!!!!

Lisa said...

Way to go on your numbers! You're getting fast and slim -- a killer combo!! You are going to SO rock this marathon! I saw you running on Goodman on my way to group training Saturday. I had intended to do just half of the 6 mile plan as I wasn't feeling well at all. It was so inspirational to see you running so strong, that I not only did the 6 but went almost a half a mile further. You are my HERO!!!!!

Marathon Maritza said...

Wow, you had a fabulous weekend!! Great (and might I say, consistant!) 18 miler, lost the baby weight....WHOOOOOOO!

Oh, and let's not forget, cutest baby ever!♥

ShirleyPerly said...

FANTASTIC news on the 18-miler and weight loss!!!

The PB Strawberry-Banana gel is one of my favorites as well. I actually have to alternate my flavors, though, so as not to get sick of the same taste. I also like Green Apple and Tangerine. Can you tell I'm a bit fruity? :-)

peter said...

All weight gain lost. Cool. 18 miler! I ran a marathon in April (at least I ran twelve then ran-walked it in) but I haven't done 18 since 9/08. Good going!