After the highly satisfying 22km and 35km last week, this weekend saw the tapering begin with a good turnout of Sunbirds, and quite a number of drop-ins, most of them doing a trial test of where they stand since some runners have not had sufficient time for buildup in the earlier weeks.
The qualifying Sunbirds were happy to collect their second running top, this time a very nice Sunbird 'Finisher' race-day singlet where they can proudly don for their important race on Dec 1. All were raring to get on with the run in the nice cloudy morning to get a sense of how they can sustain the respective training distances at Optimal Race Pace.
The trainers and pacers were under strict orders to keep to a steady Optimal Pace and act as mobile objectives for the runners to use as guideposts for their pacing requirements.
The respective groups were able to keep at it for at least 50% of the distances before the gaps between the front and rear of the respective pace groups widened.
By now, most of the Sunbirds are pretty independent with their pacing as well as putting their respective race, fuel and hydration plans into practice. The confidence levels and marathon abilities of the trainees were much improved compared with when they first joined the program.
The Sunbirds' steadfast running movements does not show any form of inexperience at all - they were running composed with good running form, and most importantly, not rushing through and able to manage their limited resources for a good pace.
Everyone had a very enjoyable training run this morning, giving the confidence and self-beliefs for a good race day performance the much needed boost. Smiles were all around, and very positive connection and chatting were evident between trainers and trainees.
The Confident Sunbirds Are Heading For a Good Race!
Facebook photos @ Meng Kiat
