28.62@10:27, HR 145 bpm
I needed a long run, at least 24 miles, maybe up to 50k. Did not have a definite goal. Started run about 10:00 am, headed out from Westlake Village, cut through Eniswood, and then north on the Pinellas Trail. Keeping heart rate in 130's (low 130s for first 9 miles) for the first part of the run.
Ran through Tarpon Springs (quick pit stop at public bathrooms behind Tarpon Tavern). Trail turns to the East and crosses under US19 and continues on Keystone to East Lake. Took a left on Eastlake and when traffic was clear, crossed and continued north to Trinity Blvd and ran on the dirt/grass shoulder, away from the narrow bike lane. Stopped near the water treatment center to stretch on the woodend fence and send Jessica a text to update my location.
Continued on through Fox Hollow neighborhoods, and then north onto the Starkey Gap Trail eventually crossing 54 and stopping at Longleaf (first the pool area for water fountain), then stopped in Trinity Cyclery for a Celsius and some honey stinger blocks. About 16 miles into the run.
Heading up Trinity Blvd my heart rate climbed at the same pace, so I sped up a little bit just to get through it, heart rate only went up a littlle bit. So, from mile 12 on was running a little bit faster.
Goal at this point was to make it to Starkey Park, do the 3 mile off road loop and head back. Midway through the loop the run suddenly felt hard. Stopped and stretched a little and once I got moving again felt much better. Finished the loop, left the park and then back south down Starkey Blvd.
Called it quits at Long Leaf. About 2.5 miles left to go to make it to my house but decided to ask for a ride. Jenny and Tom dropped me off at my house and Jessica came by Escape Brewery where I was replenishing carbs.
Glad I kept going and did over a marathon distance. Got through some long distance emotions getting back to the good part after the low point. Good mental practice. Weather was pretty awesome so that helped.
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