Virtual Partner Run

We took off quickly on my first virtual partner run using my Forerunner 205. This virtual partner run was different from the ones that I’ve done in the past because my partner is really myself in a previous run. Not remembering the circumstances of the previous run that I chose for Garminia to replicate, I started off with my iPod playing a quick set of tunes. I reminded myself that I had run hard these last couple of days and that I should just use this run as an experiment on how these races against your previous performances work.

Well Garminia was ahead of me right from the start. Personally, I think that she had a head start – but I guess that couldn’t be. I tried to ignore the presumed lead. I tried to take it easy. As I crested the hill and headed around the backside, Garminia signaled to me. Yes, even over my music I can hear her signals. I was going the wrong way around. Oops. I thanked her, and went the other direction to go around the front of the hill.

It was a short hill and we were now on the down slope. I tried to relax and roll down the hill. Garminia was still ahead and even though I kept telling myself that it didn’t matter – it did matter to me. With no idea how fast I was running, I kept close to her heels. I was closing in, but never seemed to catch her.

…until the lake. I caught up to her on the path that leads around the small lake. Of course the worst thing about passing someone, is that you are now looking behind you wondering when they will pass *you*. I tried to keep my pace. I was getting tired, but I had only a mile to go.

With Garminia closing in, I pushed. I crossed the street and ran up the paved path to my work’s parking lot. I kept running until Garminia congratulated for me. She said, “You Won! Workout complete.” I was relieved that it was over. I was tired. I happily began walking. And then I noticed that Garminia was still tracking my pace. Eek – I am walking. I can’t have my stats ruined. So, I just deleted the 0.14 mile that has my walking. I *still* won!

Unfortunately, I’ve now set a new record to break. I might not be so lucky next time.