Heuristic Algorithm

I just completed my 8 mile run and wanted to write up a quick report. I did the Leif Erikson trail in Forest Park. Tons of people out, lots bikers and runners. Weather was great - sunny but crisp and cool. The big bummer of the day is technology-related. My Garmin died w/in the first mile of the run.

WTF?! This is the second time that has happened to me recently. I typically charge the Garmin through my computer, as this is how I connect to download the info. However, what ends up happening is that I turn off the device and for some reason, my computer makes it turn back on...its like HAL 9000 (Heuristically programmed ALgorithmic Computer) from Space Odessey. Anyway, what eventually happens is that my computer goes into hibernate and there my Garmin sits - on, draining the battery w/o any charge happening. So I guess the solution is to charge it from the wall.

To make things worse, I did not have a regular watch with me, so no way to even track what time it was. Luckily the trail I'm on has mile markers everywhere. I noted the time when I left my car and then when I got back. I'm subtracting 2 minutes for the porta john pit stop I made...here are the results:

8.2 miles @ 1:05 - pace 7:55

I knew I did well on this run, I felt fast even on the uphills and really opened it up after my 4 mile turnaround. The run flew by and I didn't notice any real disturbance from my knee. The path is pretty rocky so I was ultra-careful not to step the wrong way and only once did I feel a twinge from the knee. So...that's good. I am just bummed out that I don't have the *real* data from the run. Even though I know how long it took me somehow I feel like I cheated? I do wish I could see the output from my HR and the elevation, but what can you do?

Pre-run routine...woke up after about 10 hours of sleep, drank about 40 oz water, two cups of coffee and one large piece of french toast leftover from yesterday's breakfast. I did the run at least an hour-hour.five after I ate and 4 hours after I woke up.

After my run I saw Jen and Zach on their bikes going to the same path I'd just run. I love living in a city where I run into people that I know! I took a pic of them on their bikes and will post it here once I get it uploaded. Good peeps.