My training plan calls for three weeks of tapering for 100K events, which is definitely longer than I’ve ever done before. The plan recommends cutting the volume in half for the first two weeks and concludes with a few shake out runs in the days leading up to the race. Because I’ve rarely felt aerobically taxed during this build, I decided to do slightly more volume than planned but keep it very easy to avoid undue muscle strain.

The Z2 running went uneventfully, which is good. The highlight of the week was a hill workout, ostensibly calling for 3 x 10min @ Z3 pushes, but which I did more as one 30-minute push on what’s become my favourite short loop in San Diego. The loop contains a 10-minute steep segment consisting of stairs climbing up a rocky section. I can’t think of a better way to start the day than climb this section while the sun is rising from behind the hill.

During the weekend long run in the nearby Balboa Park, I tested the latest iteration of my hydration setup. The dilemma is this: I can either wear a vest and carry more fluid but also sweat more thanks to wearing a vest; or I can wear a belt and sweat less but also carry less fluid. I’m currently leaning towards the idea of using a belt and two handheld bottles. This gives me 1.5L of carrying capacity between aid stations. Considering that I’m also able to stop and drink at the aid stations, my hope is that 1.5L will be just enough.