Last...

Today, I was the last Rogue in. Last. Granted, I ran 16 miles and most folks ran 12 or 14, but even then I typically catch up to the slower folks who are running slightly less mileage than me. Not today. Today was quite humbling, and a learning experience as well.

We ran Crestview today, which is one of my favorite runs and I have generally had a really strong run the previous 2-3 times I have done it - I remember feeling like I could have run 18 or 20 when I have done this one before. So, I actually wasn't feeling too nervous or negative about the run beforehand, although I guess I was minimizing the fact that I haven't ran since last Thursday.

Anyway, K and I had a good pasta dinner and got the right amount of sleep last night. The alarm went off at 5am and I was ready to go! We got to the Annex and saw many friendly, familiar faces. Carolyn made her announcements and sent us on our way. My usual shin/calf pain stuck with me for the first 4 miles or so, and I had to stop to stretch a few times. It can get really painful to run when it flares up, so the negative thoughts started in pretty early. "I could just turn around and head back right now." I stuck with it and the pain cleared up by mile 5 or so. But then, the hydration issues kicked in. As usual, I was soooooo thirsty and craving fluids. I had 2 full cups of water at each water stop, but it just never felt like enough even though I knew it was. My stomach was sloshing and cramping because of all the water I was drinking, so I had to stop to try to let it settle every now and then. All of this started right after the 2nd water stop at just under mile 6. Again, the negative thoughts kicked in big time. "I can turn around when the 14-milers cut off instead of keeping going to do the full 16 that I'm supposed to do." I really had myself convinced that was what I was going to do for the next 2 miles. But, then I hit the next water stop and cut-off point for the 14-milers. Scott was the coach there. There were 3 other girls there getting water at the same time with me. They were getting directions from Scott on where to turn to continue on the 14-mile route. He asked me if I knew where I was going. Yes, I'm going straight. I couldn't believe those words were coming out of my mouth. He said good for you, told me where to go, and said to make sure I get more water at the next water stop in 2 miles to stay hydrated. Off I went on the 16-mile route. My tummy issues just got progressively worse though. I even had to stop and go to the bathroom. Scott was waiting for me at the next water stop and gave me his water bottle to take with me so that I could have fluids when I needed it. I asked if I was the last one - he said yes, but most people didn't run 16. Argh. He said I looked like I was running strong...which actually I felt like I was when I was running. It was just having to frequently stop to try to settle my stomach that was the problem. Onward, only about 6 miles to go. I saw Ruth and Carolyn at the last 2 water stops, and explained my hydration/stomach problem. Again, Ruth said that I looked like I was still running strong. My legs felt fine, cardio felt fine, it was just my darn stomach! Ruth thought maybe it was an electrolyte imbalance since I was drinking so much water, and Carolyn also suggested taking in more electrolytes during the week. I somehow managed to make my way back to the Annex. Last. It wasn't pretty, but at least I didn't quit.