Last Training Run

Today was *planned* to be my last and longest run - 10-12ish miles.  I planned to make it a trial run for this Sunday's big race - same clothes down to the socks, water and 'fuel' (gu or bloks or running beans).  The only differences would be that I wouldn't have Ginger with me on race day, and I wouldn't have my hydration back pack (carrying the weight of water).

Got off to a decent start...the beginning and the ending are the hardest.  The beginning is just a struggle to get your body moving in the proper motions and getting over the first aches and pains and your brain screaming for you to stop...and your breathing to change over to be able to fuel your muscles in their new cardio needs.  The ending is just tough because you have used up all your physical and mental reserves. 

Regardless, about mile 2, I find that my drinking spout isn't working.  I can't get water through it.  We had already had to stop twice - once for Ginger to pee and once to poo.  I decided I'd stop to see if I could get it to work because I didn't think I could make my distance without water.  I took too long and was annoyed with myself.  Had to take my pack off and take the hydration bag out...couldn't get it working after all that!  AND the worst part, that I realized a few minutes later that it was now leaking!  Actually, I felt the cold wetness on my lower shirt and upper shorts.  Thought it was just some of the water that came out when I was trying to fix the hose.  So, I kept going.  By the time I realized that it must be an active leak....I was pretty soaked and cold water was actually trickling down my legs and getting my socks wet in my shoes....not to mention my wet underwear. 

When I got to the bathroom, I stopped to check it out to see if I could dry off - no towels and you can only do so much with toilet paper....I dumped the rest of my water, dried off the best I could...and I had to make a decision.  Do I try to continue on to my 10 mile goal wet and without water to drink.  My biggest concern was the wet clothing and chafing or blisters it might cause that would then be an issue for me on Sunday.  I decided to turn and head back.  I ended up with just under 6 miles which is a bit disappointing.  What can I do?  It is too late to fit in another long run - today was pushing it.  I will have to wing it on race day and hope that I can manage the full 13 miles and that I can do it in less than 3 hours AND that I can refuel while running and not throw it back up. 

Wish me luck!!!