I would like to add another 1/2 marathon but do not want to negatively impact my training with your program, as my ultimate goal is completing the Portland Marathon this year. From the schedule, it looks like that week is our "rest" week, as the times/distances are cut back with the following weekend being our 25k benchmark. Is it ok to run 13.1 miles on July 4th - Sauvie Island flat - instead of the 9 mile run on Saturday? Or, is that too much distance too close together?
Thanks,
Teri

Teri,
Are you one of those types - just like me - that no matter what we tell you, you'll go do it anyway, just like me? Let me introduce you to some of my Crazy Friends sometime. Maybe you already know them?

I'd say if your training has been good and solid, and you feel that burning desire to put another Half in your schedule, then go do it and don't look back. Sauvie Island in July is typically a very warm race, so extra planning and fine tuning of your hydration could play a big part in how well it goes for you. Additionally, what you do to recover immediately after the race, as well as the days following, will determine how well the 25K goes for you the following weekend. If you did fine at Helvetia, then there's no reason to fear that distance, though you will be adding 2 miles to your distance each weekend for 3 straight weeks. Not a huge jump, but make sure you get rest too. As an example, take a second rest day to walk, bike easy, do some light stretching or yoga.

Doug

Doug - thanks for the reply. I'm new to the program, so I follow recommendations well. I leave the schedule up to the experts but understand from the weeks we've completed so far that we can alter our training and runs to adapt to real life. I have done solid training to date, even completed the 11 miles of constant rain in Vanc. The Helvetia Half was great. My recovery went well, no real aches or pains (knock on wood). Good point about the 2 mile increase 3 wks in a row... maybe I will chat with the coaches this weekend to get more input.

There are some other Half Marathons in the area in July if another date would work better with your schedule.

7/11/10 - Dundee - Fueled by Fine Wine Half. This one is expensive, and if anyone is interested, I'll find the code for a $20 discount. I may do this one.

7/18/10 - Battleground Harvest Days Half. I did this one last year and it was a lot of fun. I haven't registered yet, but am planning it again this year.

7/25/10 - Lacamas Lake Half. I'm also doing this one. It has a couple killer hills, but not too bad after Helvetia.

The weekend of the Lacamas Lake Half we're scheduled to run 13 miles with Portland Fit so that works out perfectly.