Despite my disappointment to not race Wineglass, having eliminated the inherent pressure of the marathon training schedule has been revitalizing. I can't say that I have been able to fulfill 100% (mainly the frequency of the runs) of the half-marathon training schedule, but I have the distance beat. The frequency of my running has been appaling, to say the least, and I suffer for it during my tempo runs; however, I feel very strong on my long Sunday runs (likely because speed is not encouraged). With approximately one month to go before the big day, my focus will be on getting those tempo runs in.
I had a splendid 17km run late last night--a little too late resulting in terrible insomnia and a 3 hour book review of growing culinary herbs at 3am, followed by a snack of shaved turkey with horseradish mayo. Nothing like turkey to help one count sheep. I experimented with my fuel for last night's run, substituting my fruit punch flavoured Accelerade for Tango Mango GU2O electrolyte replacement. I used 3/4 of a Chocolate Outrage GU (my favourite flavour) for instant carb replenishment. The GU2O had a hint of mango flavour and went down as easy as plain water. I did not experience any cramping, feelings of dehydration, or other ill effects, and I never felt sluggish during the run. The primary ingredients are malodextrin and fructose. I may have to retire the Accelerade for my mountain biking adventures if the Gu2O works this well.