I was 1 minute faster than last year's time, but quite a bit off from what I was expecting. Maybe my fitness isn't where I thought it was. My time was 1:38:07.
The week leading up to the race, I did testing at the Human Performance Lab. It was for the Reebok zigtech shoe. they claim to reduce wear by %20, and call the shoe an 'energy drink' for your feet/legs. The shoe is lighter than average shoe, and gradual drop from the heel to toe (to put you in a forward position). I didn't feel much of a difference between the shoes, the results showed slight to no benefit when running with the zigtech versus the control shoe. I got a free pair of the $120 shoe for my 4 hours of effort. I also got my VO2 scores, and associated Heart Rates. From looking at my lactate threshold heart rate, I don't think i'm running fast enough for tempo and speed work outs. It's time to talk to the coach, and make some modifications.
On a happier note, my birthday is coming up. I've been looking back through older photos. 2 years ago I was extremely sore because it was the day after my 1st marathon. And on may 7th, I flew to hawaii as a graduation present from my parents. I feel like the past 2 years have FLOWN by!
