These days race results are processed almost immediately, so I already have some stats from yesterday’s Sutherland to Surf. There were 7,792 entrants and I finished in 133rd place (top 2%). I was also 2nd in my age group (50-59). Actually, I was equal 2nd, so the guy I crossed the line with must have been a similar age.

In the past I haven’t usually placed so highly in my age group at large public races, so the conclusion is I’m holding up a little better than most as the years advance. So, I suppose I shouldn’t be so hard on myself, nor expect miracles. But that won’t stop me from trying to improve on my current times.

On This Day

Jul 21, 2012

Distance today = 50.30 km; Total distance = 9504.57 km; Location = Thawville, Illinois – 40 41.133′ N, 88 06.112′ W; Start time = 0855 Finish time = 1703

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/201637874

I had another good day on the road, although it’s heating up again, and the 36C temps were too high for it to be comfortable. The landscape is back to green corn fields and soy bean crops, and it’s very flat. Without the heat, it would be very pleasant for running.

There’s not much more to report today – just making my way south (with a touch of west) toward St Louis. Maybe tomorrow will be more interesting – I know it’s predicted to be hotter.

Jul 21, 2013

Distance for today = 52.47 km; Total distance = 23,503.74 km; Location = Port Kenny, SA (20 km east of) – 33 02.881’ S, 134 49.130′ E; Start time = 0902, Finish time = 1703

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/345747799

Sun showers and rainbows were the order of the afternoon today. I got a bit wet, but it wasn’t too heavy. The temperature started to drop, though, particularly as the afternoon drew to a close.

We bid farewell to more of the team this morning, with Bill and Tony, and Peter and Jane all heading off. We’re hoping to meet up again with the latter two again in about a week.

It was fantastic of Bill and Tony to make the effort to travel so far to be part of the support crew. The Pewter Mug Day was a success too – especially as we all woke up feeling fine.

I am now running in my 16th pair of shoes. I got more than 2,350 km out of the last pair, which were the ones donated to me by the Apalategui running store in San Sebastian, Spain. I’m certainly getting good value out of my shoes.