I’ve enjoyed 50k training these last couple months. I hope my race is still a go at the end of August but seemingly anything can (and will) happen in 2020.
In 2019 I completed my first 50k. It was long, and it was physically demanding and mentally taxing. But the finish line was the sweetest one I’ve crossed yet.
50K Training in 2020
My finish time was nothing to write home about, unfortunately. And my last couple loops were extremely challenging as I battled a nagging IT band injury. You can read the full recap here! I never had much doubt that I would finish, but I wasn’t too thrilled with my overall performance. In short, I wish I had done better.
Because I had so much on my plate for 2020, I didn’t give much thought to another 50k. But of course those pesky familiar questions started nagging in the back of my mind. You know the ones — the what ifs, can I’s, should I’s, and I’d like to’s…
We’ve all heard them before, especially after a race!
In late 2019 I began entertaining the idea of another round of 50k training. Even though I had a lot on my plate for 2020, I figured if I timed it right I could make it happen. I had a few to choose from but when I stacked them all on the chopping block, I realized I really wanted another go at the one I completed in 2019 — Moebius – Green Monster Trail 50k.
And then COVID happened.
As it turns out, I now have very little on my agenda for 2020. Most of the worry about race dates and locations quickly became irrelevant. Oh how naive we were back in 2019!
As spring races began getting cancelled — namely the Tokyo Marathon — I knew it was only a matter of time before the domino effect of race cancellations worldwide began in earnest.
50K Training through Quarantine
Throughout quarantine, I began to build out my 50k training. I started logging higher mileage, thanks in part to the Orange Mud RATS race and GVRAT 1000k. And I’m now enjoying my double digit runs on the regular. I’ve been having a blast exploring the trails, running with my son, taking my dogs for runs, and just having a good time. The only drama so far is that I twisted my ankle this week. I’m hoping that won’t derail my training or I’ll be a sad kitty.
Continuing with 50K Training
There are a lot of unknowns going forward. I have decided to let the chips fall where they may and see what unfolds before me. I’ve decided to continue my 50k training in pursuit of a PR come August. Despite fall races now being cancelled, I’m still training like there will be a race.
I’m hopeful this race will happen for two reasons. First, it’s a teeny tiny race. And the RD already mentioned that he’d run every single one of us individually if that’s what it took for the 2020 race to go on. And second, Ohio is currently in a decline of COVID cases. I’m cautiously optimistic that we’ll remain in a decline through the fall. Of course who knows how likely that is — but it is what it is. Plus even if the race itself doesn’t happen, I’d still be running high mileage through the summer anyway. My plan is to keep plugging away through 50k training and hope it happens! Let’s put it this way: I’m having fun on the trails with a tentative goal for the future.
I’ve truly enjoyed training these last couple months. I really hope Moebius is still a go at the end of August but like everything, there’s a lot of time between now and then, and seemingly anything can (and will) happen.
2020, you’ve really flipped the script. And then turned it inside out. And crumpled it up. Now we’re just waiting for the 2020 script to become spitballs or something else obnoxious…
xo
Let’s talk!
Do you have any goals for the remainder of 2020?
Are you still planning on races in your area?
21 Comments
I nabbed my spot in the Ice Age Trail 50k thanks to a postponement and open spots. I hope it happens. But if it doesn’t, like you said, I’m really enjoying running trails. Slowing down feels good. I may not go back to the road!
I’m so glad you love trail running! It’s just such a different vibe. I really hope your race is still a go. If it’s not, will you do it next year?
It sounds like small event like this could still happen – fingers crossed for you! I love that you are having so much fun with your running — that’s so important these days. Hope your ankle doesn’t turn out to be a serious injury.
Thank you so much! Summer running is my jam so even if there wasn’t a race, I think I’d still be logging some serious mileage. The ankle kinda hurts and it’s swollen. I think a few days off should do it. I’ll test it on roads in a few days before I head back to the trails.
I am still hoping my October race happens but I am not optimistic. Hey if training feels good for you and you enjoy it, why not carry on. Training is never wasted. Fingers crossed your race happens
You’re signed up for Wineglass, right? I am too. I have a group of three other women I’m supposed to be traveling with and we’ve been discussing our comfort level. Honestly if nothing changes and it’s status quo as it is now, I don’t think any of us are comfortable traveling at this point. I’m considering cancelling our hotel reservation but I don’t want to prematurely.
You probably heard that Air Force Marathon pulled the plug (so I deferred to 2021). So… my summer is wide open. I’m doing the IMT Des Moines 13.1, but if I get the bug to up the mileage, I may upgrade my registration to the 26.2 . It’s not until mid-October so I have time to access how badly I want to take that chance. I’m not too keen on having two marathons deferred to 2021…a month apart from each other . Marathons are dumb.
I did see that. 🙁 I’m so sorry mama. Is IMT still a go as of now? It seems like most of our road races around here are being cancelled. The Akron Marathon just announced their cancellation yesterday. I think trail races have a better chance of still going since they’re generally much smaller anyway. But we shall see…
Either way, you will win, Rachel. You’re having fun on the trails and you’re out there running, regardless of whether the race happens or not. If it does, it’s a lovely surprise!
I am thinking about signing up for the virtual Cape Town Marathon in October. This race will definitely not happen in real life. It’s tempting to sign up!
I’m not going to lie, I’ve considered signing up for more virtual races. I just don’t think I could do a marathon, though! I’m anxious to see what you decide!!
You’re right, having fun is winning, for sure. I would be running this much through summer anyway. 🙂
Oh no, I hope the ankle is healing up! Give it the rest it needs so you can get out there even stronger.
Right now, for me, I’m just maintaining my base. I don’t have any big running goals, I don’t see races happening at all for me this year — and that’s sort of ok. I really do wish I could add 1 new state this year, I won’t lie, but I don’t see convincing my husband to travel happening. And with Lola going on 15 . . . I don’t see anyone taking her in to dogsit, either, assuming people are actually still doing that. 🙁
Sounds like you’re in a really good place with running, Rachel, and that jump shot of you two is adorable!
Yeah that’s where we’re at with traveling, too. Two dogs, plus not sure how safe it is — boo! But we’ll both get back into it next year, right?
Thank you so much! We’ve been having fun. I’ve really enjoyed running with him now that he’s older and complains a little less. Lol!
It’s great that you are enjoying your training, regardless of what happens! I hope your race can be held though. Its so hard to know what will happen even in just a few weeks from now!
Oh gosh, this is so exciting for you! And I love that photo of you as well! You look ready for anything and everything.
My goal for the rest of this ridiculous year is just to stay the course. I am making no major plans, but will continue to put in all the work. It’s all I can think of to do.
I do not have running goals this year. Since finishing the WMMs last year (thank heavens) my goal is just to keep running in general. FWIW all ZOOMA races for fall (Cape Cod, Florida, Texas) are still “on”. Hopefully they’ll happen and hopefully your 50k will too.
We’ve had some local 5Ks resume with special social-distance protocol. Cases have been on a steady decline in Indiana also. It makes me hopeful for at least local races, if not my marathon in November. I hope your 50K happens! It sounds like you are enjoying your training, and even if the race doesn’t happen, you will not lose that fitness.
I just love that your son like running with you! And your jump shot with him sure turned out better than any that I’ve done with my husband!
I’ve had all my races canceled so far with the exception of one which was postposted to September. I expect it will go soon too. My husband has a couple that he works for that haven’t yet been canceled and, since he makes money doing them (and I do too at one), I hope they go on as planned. Fingers crossed!
I hoe your race doesn’t get cancelled and your ankle is okay. So cool that your son likes to run with you. My oldest ran a couple 5ks and a couple mud runs but never really ran on the regular with me.
I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying your training. Having a company is always great, especially if it’s member of your family. Good luck with your 50K run.
Most races here aren’t happening for a while and most people are pretty bummed. Covid has definitely brought it’s challenges and disappointments!
That is so great that you have stayed motivated to train!! I have really bee struggling with my motivation. I admire your dedication!!!