Today’s an exciting day as Coach Jay and I decided it was best to run the California International Marathon December 5th! Training has been going great ever since I’m moved to Boulder to be coached by Jay and train with Kenyon and Brent.  I have had a couple of weeks above 100 miles but more importantly have had really good long run, longer workouts, and numerous double-days above 20 miles.  I really enjoyed the BAA Half-Marathon and although I was slower (1:06:06) than my goal time (sub 1:05), it was a very positive experience.  I averaged 5:02 pace on a very challenging course.  The pace – but really the uphills – took its toll on my legs, which were pretty fatigued from some quality workouts the week before.  Aerobically, it wasn’t that challenging, which once again builds my confidence for the marathon.  It’s funny that a year ago today I was amazed at guys running 5:00 pace for the marathon.  Now, I know it’s just a matter of learning the 26.2 mile distance, a bunch of high volume weeks, and some very good long runs/workouts.  I’m also young as I just turned 24 on Thursday when the average age of elite marathoners is 29, according to this article by Sweat Science.  Although 100 miles a week might sounds like a lot, to reach the very elite level and be competitive on the world level it is going to take 140 mile weeks.  I have several years to build up to that weekly volume and reach my prime.