Back In The Saddle?

This is the least prepared I have ever been for a marathon. Since my 20 miler two weeks ago, I have only managed to run 30 kilometers. I was expecting to taper, not collapse, but that what happens when you get hit with a cold and an injury back-to-back. At this rate, I'll be lucky to walk to the starting line without seizing up.

The string of bad luck has forced me to reconsider my marathon goals. I thought that I might be able to pull off a 3:30 marathon, but now I think a 3:45 is more likely. In fact, I'll be happy with anything under four hours. I'm just going to take it one mile at a time, and hope I can still walk upon exiting Lorneville. The last thing I want to do is drop out of the race.

As for my knee, well, it's still in one piece. My first run since my disasterous Nature Park visit was relatively slow (26:40 for 5k), but aside from a couple of phantom pains, my knee wasn't an issue. I'm not sure how it will hold up over 26 miles, but it's probably too late to worry about it. All I can do is run the race and pray I don't fall apart.

Now that I've instilled my readers with a ton of confidence, I would like to note that I am still accepting donations. Lord knows I don't want to limp 26 miles without raising a few bucks, so if you see me on the streets over the next few days, throw me a dime or two.

Chuck is running the marathon in support of InterAction School of Performing Arts Capital Campaign. To find out how to donate, please click here.