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So, to put to thoughts all that happened leading up to Chicago and during the marathon. Left at 6:30am for the flight.  No real issues.  Saw another Strider at the airport and we synched up on plans for the marathon and what we did or didn't know.  I had planned (so I thought) for most things, including rain (not in the forecast, but just in case) and some level of wind/cold (thought start would be in the 37 to 40 degree range).  Packed racing gear into a separate bag that would be with me.  We ended up not checking in anything. After arriving in Chicago, to the CTA to downtown (saved some money).  Had to drag the bags .7 miles to the hotel in light rain.  We stayed at the Loews.  They had a room ready (we arrived at 10am), so that was handy.  I asked for a late checkout (2pm), which they gave me.  That was appreciated, and removed some of the pressure off of getting back quickly from the marathon. Lunch was a Chicago hotdog and Portillos.  I really wanted the hotdog, but wou

Finished last "long" run today.  Beginning final days of taper before the marathon.  Last few weeks of training have been high intensity, but not high mileage.  Approx. 41 miles per week with avg paces in the 8:20 min/mile range.  Long runs have been been fast finishes, with an 18 mile run at 8:08 min/mile pace. Current race attire/equipment are as planned: New Balance Ice shirt (not singlet) Zensah arm warmers (current temp projection is 40 degrees at start) -- not sure if I will use a disposable sock as an alternative disposable gloves Reebok shorts (5 inches) Julbi sunglasses injinji socks (trail if colder) Vaporfly Next % Naked Running Belt 2 containers for 6 BCAA and 6 salt capsules 5 Huma and 5 Spring gels placed into 2 containers (150 ML hydropac soft flasks) -- removed Carb Boom gel from rotation due to issues today and last week (assuming this is causing the problems) 1 Clif Chew Blocks (6) ??? Cell phone (iphone SE) Forerunner 935 Stryd Wind Pod