Well, I did it. In my last race as a 41-year old, I finally set a new personal record (PR) for the mile. I guess the McMillan Marathon Training Plan is working pretty well….
As for the race, I sat in the pack for a couple of laps, trying to save something for the final half mile. With two laps to go I glanced over at the clock and was pleased to read 2:31. The third lap is always the toughest, but I hung on as best I could and unleashed a kick with about 450m to go – maybe a bit early, but the cheering crowd was spurring me on.
With 100m to go, I sprinted with everything I had and crossed the line as the clock ticked past 5:03….
So, first and last PR as a 41-year old and hopefully things are looking good for the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon in a couple of months and the Richmond Marathon in November.
Just for the record I was 8th overall male and 1st in the master’s division.
Also, my wife Ally had a great race – first place in her age group with a 7:45 mile and she was also a member of the second place random relay team. See? Consistent training does pay off….Well done!
PS I’m really going to enjoy my celebratory beer tonight – a bottle of 14% Samichlaus which I’ve been saving in my refrigerator since March 2007 for an occasion just like this…
Wow, very impressive…. especially for a 41 year old 🙂
Great job on that time!
Thanks Tim! I wonder what I’ll do as a 42 year old….
Wow, excellent job! And enjoy that nice, icy-cold beer! 😉
Congrats to Ally for her first place finish in her age group & her second place random relay team finish – Wow, the two of you are like the über-runner-couple!
Awesome! As always you manage to impress!
Congratulations Steve! Awesome time and great PR! No doubt you are getting better and 42 should see some excellent races and PRs.
Congratulations to Ms Ally Too! Way to go on your AG first and your team placing in the relay!
Have a great week,
Charlie
That is very impressive! I am also training for a mile race. My current best is 5:09. Trying to get under 5. I’m curious about the training program you mentioned. Is it specifically for the mile or is that your marathon program? Anyways, congratulations on a great time!
Hey Reid,
Thanks. I’ve been following your mile progress actually. Pretty impressive! The plan I’m following is purely for a marathon but I guess by strength and endurance played a part in the 5:03 mile on the weekend. I think if I trained specifically for it, I’d be able to duck under 5:00, but I much prefer the longer stuff.
Good luck with your efforts! Maybe the push ups will help you?
–Steve