running long 3:33:00 [3] 34.0 km (6:16 / km) +650m 5:43 / km
shoes: Asics Gel 2130
Well, this was about the same distance as running from Ronny Creek to New Pelion hut....
Since both the minigaine and the trail run were cancelled, I was meeting Zara, John, Lauren & Fern at Belair 7 am for a long run up past the waterfalls to the tap at the top of the park, out along the railway line to the old Upper Sturt Station, up Station Rd, along Upper Sturt, back into the park at the tennis club and then down along Long Gully.
Then I decided to run up there, which involved getting up at 5am, taking a pack, and going via Shepherds Hill, Eden Hills & Blackwood. This went pretty well 'cos I was still feeling fresh, and I actually got to Belair before anyone else (have noticed that I'm more likely to be on time when running than driving). Everyone took off into the distance, Callum the kelpie especially, and I just kept going with my long-run-plod-pace. John kindly doubled back to sheepdog for me (so if he did 16.2 for this loop I probably did 15.5) and there were plenty of stops at taps for me to catch up again, and by the end Callum didn't want to run so fast any more so I had company, and it was still cool & shady & pleasant in the valley.
This made me think that I should be okay to run home if I could be back by about 10am. From the park entrance up to the BP at Belair was a struggle, but I soaked my hat under the tap there, and the rest was all downhill; slower than usual but I could have kept going longer at that pace if necessary. I reckon that carrying a pack makes me less likely to overheat because I don't have the sun on my back. I also have access to salt and food, which is a huge bonus, and outweighs the pack-induced-slowness (which conveniently camouflages my natural slowness).
Might have a day off tomorrow though :)