Two Previous Weeks in Running: Tapering

Tapering is fun. I genuinely feel like I’m running for fun, rather than running for time, even when time is a factor. I’m relaxing my body, resting up a bit, and getting myself ready — physically and mentally — for the race. So much goes through my mind during this time. I wonder what I’ll wear the day of the race. I wonder what the weather will be like. I work to finalize my night-before dinner menu. I think about the folks I know who will come out to cheer, especially if I know I’ll hear them on the course or see them at the finish. I think about the folks who will cheer for people they’ve never seen before and may never see again. This year, I also think about my team, and making sure that they’re ready for the race, and that I’ve done everything I can do for them to get them race-ready.

And I run.

Sunday, April 11 — 5.44 miles, 57:15 — I ran a little farther than scheduled today, which is generally not a good taper strategy; however, my friend Jen was running her own, personal half marathon today, starting in Schoolcraft, so I opted to run the first 2.5 miles with her. It was a great time to chat with her. I’m working on her medal for the race. I figure to have that put together in the next couple of days.

Tuesday, April 13 — 6 miles, 50:40

Wednesday, April 14 — 6 miles, 56:35

Thursday, April 15 — 5.06 miles, 51:19

Saturday, April 17 — 6.28 miles, 1:01:30 — This was the last organized run for this year’s Borgess Run Camp. I’m not going to lie: I was genuinely sad to see it end. I have this incredible, amazing team. After the run, we met up with Team Pancake for (you guessed it) pancakes!

Sunday, April 18 — 6.12 miles, 55:20

Tuesday, April 20 — 5.01 miles, 42:44

Wednesday, April 21 — 4.03 miles, 40:03

Thursday, April 22 — 3.03 miles, 30:08 — This was the last pre-race run for the Plaidiators. We followed this up with our pre-race pasta party at Pasta Pasta. I distributed certificates and a few other rewards to the team. We tried on our team shirts, and we talked about what to expect at the race. In addition, my Plaidiators were kind enough to give me a very, very generous thank-you gift.

Dear Plaidiators,

You guys are the best. That was way too much. I’m humbled by your generosity, and I’m flattered by the praise you’ve lavished upon me. Leading you guys during Run Camp has been my privilege.

Sincerely,

Darrell

In the next entry, I’ll talk about the Borgess Run for the Health of It half marathon!