Daily run: 18 miles

Had a nice, "easy" 18-miler today up and down Shoal Creek Blvd. My plan was to run the course in thirds. Get faster every six miles.

I averaged 8:33 for the first six miles; 8:23 for the second six miles; and 8:05 for the final six miles. I finished the entire run in 2:30, for an average pace of 8:20.

I'm also experimenting with making myself eat something before runs of this distance, so about 30 minutes before the run, I three bites of a whole wheat bagel with peanut butter. During the run, I had one GU, four thermolytes and tons of water. My energy felt strong the whole way, and more importantly, I didn't cramp.

This run ends a week in which I hit 63.85 miles. Next week's schedule calls for a cutback week. "Only" 40 to 45 miles.

I'll gladly take it.