Run/Walk seems like a best strategy to go for longer miles with good timing

After running with greater difficulty through last couple of miles during the last 19 miler, I reassessed my running plan for long runs. There is no point trying to run all the distance without walking at all. Couple of disadvantages with it: I am not able to finish is strong at the end and timing is also getting affected as I end up walking more minutes final few miles. I started talking about it with my mentor Reshu during my weekday at Rancho Park.

Tried it out during the Oracle Trail run for 12 miles and end up finishing strong. I am going to stick to it.

Crossed milestone of running for 4 hours continuously and finishing 19 miles

Today's long run is at Sawyer Camp trail again. We had to run 19 miles. Since I did run 18 miles week before, I didn't feel that it is going to be a problem. Initial few miles went fine as I had company of my runner mates. At mile 4 or so, while talking to fellow asha runner Angelina and figured out that she is running almost same pace as mine & training for Chicago marathon as well. We decided to run together the whole distance. First 13 miles were fine. After that heat was showing the effect on me and running was getting harder. Miles 17, 18 and 19, I end up walking 2 minutes or so. Feeling thirsty quite often and started seeing a bit tightness in my calf muscles every now and then. Some how, managed to complete 19 miles and would want to do better than this.

Talked to coach Char after the run and he mentioned that don't judge your training with this run. Course is hilly & weather was hot. On my way to home, I was remembering how I finished my 19 miles and felt so good.

I can't believe I did 19 miles of running now. This definitely gave another confidence boost towards marathon run. I had my ice-bath at home after the run and it gave me more relief.

Running Stats: 19 Miles Distance in 4:07':14'' with 13 mpm. Best Mile: 11:17(1st mile), Worst Mile: 16:01(18th mile)