Hey all...

I am looking for advice for modifying the end of the schedule in order to target a marathon on 31 October rather than the 10th... How should we run distance between the 30k and the 21 miler in order to not peak too soon? We are doing HTC too.... Should we add a 16, should we do two 18's... ? Thanks for any help. It will be my 17th marathon, but it will be my husband's 1st, which is why I want things to go smoothly for him. He is also nervous about running 21 without the support of the group....

If it were my training, I would drop to a 16 the week after the 21 miler and ramp back up to a 20 on Oct. 2nd. That should give you a little bit of a break from the high mileage and then gets you to a 2nd peak about 4 weeks out.

Terry

Do you and your husband a favor and run a couple 20 milers. Take a look at Jeff Galloway's web site. I find the one 21miler to be insufficient for prep. I also do a 23 & a 27 miler.
As for your hubbies jitters, there's no getting over that. Pick a route, plant some your favorite snack and gatorade drink in the bushes...
17 marathons!!!! Wow, you are an old pro!
As a disclaimer, I have run 11 but none faster than 4:20. I run 3 minutes and walk 1 and find this pace to keep me fresh and striding at mile 23, 24, 25, 26 and .2
All the best on your quest! & congrats to your husband for starting the adventure.