This morning was 9-mile day! Unfortunately, I couldn't run with the team because our vehicle's at the shop this weekend, and the Ann Arbor bus system doesn't run on Saturday mornings (lame!). So, I had to come up with this one on my own, which was a little daunting! I've only ever run 9 miles once before, never farther than that.

So I did my 5-mile loop twice, with the second loop a little abbreviated to cut the total distance to 9. It was a gorgeous morning: sunny and not too warm and low humidity. I planted some water and a little baggie of Wheat Thins near the beginning of the loop so that I could re-fuel halfway through. The first loop went pretty well -- I think I actually pushed my pace without realizing it, which means I was feeling good but may not have been the best idea. Around Mile 4 I started feeling like I really needed fuel, and I still had a little way to go before hitting my fuel stash. That wasn't so much fun. After my snack and some water I felt better. The second loop was much slower as my feet got progressively more tired; I probably should have done a walking interval around Mile 7 or 8, but I was so determined to run the whole way! I did it, but will keep in mind for future long runs that I should start integrating walking intervals into my run plans.

From now on, every Saturday will be the longest run I have ever done in my life. Eek!