BHViking wrote:... do you remember if you were in a fasted state?
That was probably a mid-morning run, no breakfast, but normal dinner the night before. I take no nutrition during long runs, and probably no fluids that particular day (my notes say "cool weather"). If the temp is approaching 80° or warmer, I typically stash water along the course.
So, likely dehydration was a factor.
Yeah, I really bounced back quickly at age 43. That 14-miler two days later was my strongest medium-long run of the buildup. It was a loop on the actual marathon course, so a great confidence-builder.
During the 5 weeks between the "23" and the marathon that year, I raced a half marathon, plus a 5K or two. And ran a couple more long runs, 20- and 18-milers. The 2:56 marathon was run very conservatively, probably had 2:52 fitness, but will never know. It had been 20 years since breaking 3 hours, so that was the goal.
I'm also fascinated by different approaches to training. I can't imagine the discipline it takes to run consistent 70-, 80-, 100-mile weeks.
RRR: Wow, how did I miss that 19-mile followup to a 22-miler?! Strength AND endurance. Enjoy your race this weekend.