CIM Race Week

It’s CIM Race Week, and I am excited for this Sunday. Last week, I ran six times for a smidge over 29 miles. This week, I have 2-mile recovery runs on Tuesday and Friday, 4x 1/4-mile intervals for five miles on Thursday, a 3-mile recovery on Saturday, and a 26.2-mile point-to-point run from Folsom to Sacramento on Sunday.

Pace Plan

I have been training for 9:20/mi. marathon pace. I believe it is a reasonable pace since I have maintained it for 10 miles in training and have danced with that pace during the taper base runs while still in Z2. However, I aim to run a sub 4:15 marathon (9:43/mi. pace). Running at 9:20/mi. pace will give me a 10-minute buffer if I need to use the restroom, tie a shoelace, or walk through an aid station or two.

I will use the splits from FindMyMarathon.com for a 9:20/mi pace with a conservative start and negative split. The website accounts for the changes in elevation for the CIM course. The difference in splits aligns with the voluminous internet advice from veteran CIM runners to run the first miles slower than marathon pace, to respect the rollers for the first 10 miles of the course with even effort, to “get to the bridge” at marathon pace, and pick up the pace if there is any gas left in the tank for the last five miles. 

Nutrition and Hydration

I plan to bring my fuel and hydration with me. It’s what I practiced during my long runs, and I don’t see the hydration pack as a hindrance. I will take a gel before the start and at miles 4, 8, 12, 15, 18, 21, and 24. I’ll bring assorted GU flavors (most are caffeinated), two 500 ml soft flasks of Nuun Endurance, and 1.5 L of water. If I need more gels or electrolytes, they will serve GU and Nuun Endurance on the course, and I know I tolerate it well.

Kit

As of Monday night, the weather will be cloudy, with a low of 45°F at 4 a.m., 47°F at the start, and 53°F at the finish. Last Saturday, I ran with a 44°F start and 53°F finish in a short-sleeved shirt and shorts. My gloveless hands were only cold for the first mile, and my ears were okay. I’ll pack a long-sleeved shirt just in case, but it looks like it will be great weather for running.

Have you run CIM? Do you have any tips to share? Please let me know in the comments below.

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