Not sure what I hate more: rain, wind or cold. Certainly any combination is the worst. Yesterday was the ASPIRE 10K in Plainview and it was WINDY! But it was not too bad; temps were in the low 50s and I was wearing a windbreaker so that really mitigated the effects of the wind. This is a special race and the entire net proceeds of the event are given to the ASPIRE Program for the rehabilitation of young amputees, and ASPIRE's Stanley Kramberg Memorial Scholarship Fund. Many amputees participate in the race and their presence makes for a very inspiring and moving event. This race is Long Island's oldest continuously held 10K race; this was the 32nd year.

I had a good race. Got into a nice rhythm and felt pretty strong throughout the entire course, which is mostly flat but has a couple of nice hills. I finished with a kick at 58:38 (pace of 9:27), my best time for this course and only 38 seconds slower than my last 10K from Cow Harbor last September. I even managed to achieve reverse splits: 1st 5K pace: 9:32 and 2nd 5K pace: 9:21. Considering the winter layoff and few added pounds ... I was very pleased with yesterday's result, especially how my body felt afterwards and today. My marathon plans are taking shape. Next up: a nine miler in 2 weeks and then the LI Half Marathon May 3rd.