Well, this is it. The last time I wrote a post, I had 6 weeks to go. Now, I have one. One week until I race in the Women’s Marathon at the Rio Olympic Games at 9:30 am (8:30 EST on CBC) on August 14, 2016.
In mid-July I was gearing up to train for three of my highest mileage weeks ever while taking full advantage of the hot and humid Ontario summer we were experiencing. It was at this time that this whole Olympic thing started to feel real. This was it. I filled and consumed countless bottles of Eload, was in my pyjamas before most people would even start dinner, agonized in the sauna, and doubled up on my treatments to ensure I was doing everything possible to be at my best.
Coach Rick and I were hoping I could mimic my training from 2013 when I had my best year. And I think we were fairly successful in doing that. I may not quite be as fast as we focused more on acclimating for the heat and humidity while appropriately adjusting paces. My tempos are key fitness indicators and even though they have been slightly slower, the overall pace for the entire run has been faster. More of them were outside within a 25-35 km run than inside on the treadmill within 25-30 km. My average weekly mileage for my three peak weeks was 172 km compared to 165 km, and most of my runs occurred between 10:30am-12:30pm, which allowed me to start with more humidity and end with more heat. I feel like I am stronger and more equipped to handle a race in tough conditions, which is more about placement than time. My weight is 118 lb and RHR at 36, which also gives me confidence that I am ready.
On Monday, August 8 I fly with several athletes from Athletics Canada since August 9 is the first day we can enter the athletes’ village. August 12 is the first day of competition. I am really looking forward to having the race of my life, and taking in the entire Olympic experience. Wow, what a journey! Again, I thank each and everyone of you for everything you have done to make this possible. Let’s do this!
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Everyone is sending much love and positive vibes to Rio from Brantford. Run like the wind Krista.
Good luck krista! Brantford is routing for you stay strong!
good luck Krista stay strong and focus you can do it
We speak on behalf of our church, Burtch Baptist when we wish you great success!!! We know you are mighty and will do your best and that is all you can do. We are proud of you and are pleased to say that we cheer for you in Rio!! God bless you Krista. Thanks to Rick M for being your powerhouse and keeping you on track too.