Another long run completed

Following up the mock-Ultra from last Sunday where I clocked about 18 K, I followed up with another semi-decent run on Friday with about 22 K in 2:30. From the perspective of the Mumbai Marathon prep, this is good stuff and I am looking at it like that. If I sustain this intensity of workout, I should be in good shape by Jan 16th 2011 to finish and enjoy Mumbai unlike the last time where the last 8 K was pure hell. Of course it won't be easy but then what which is precious ever is?

I am not thinking too much about next Sunday when I'll attempt the half Ultra. I am just going to take it as it comes and accept whatever the result, that is if I finish or not. I cramped pretty badly yesterday but could have gone on for another 10 K or so. I am confident, barring injury, of hitting 30 - 32 K but there will still be 18 K more which translates into about 2 hours 30 minutes of being on my feet which is daunting to say the least. But I know what to expect now. I know the pains, the feeling of faintness, of collapse, of your face muscles twitching involuntarily and of spurts of speed as fellow runners encourage you on the course. One week of careful taper and good eating. Then the Ultra. Then back to preparing for Mumbai.