This was my first time back on CCT since all the snow and some time before that. It felt flat in comparison to the routes we have done. The way out is actually a bit down hill. I went too fast because of this but slowed down on the way back. Put my average pace right wear my LSD pace is supposed to be for this training program and where I ran my long runs during marathon training. My right lower back, hip and hamstring bothered me more on the way out. Maybe slowing down on the way back made a difference. I am rethinking my taper before Shamrock. I will do 10 Saturday and then taper from there. Tuesday track will be practicing race pace tempo intervals and the interval pace on the schedule and Wed and Th are going to be easy runs. I may even skip Thursday completely or just run 3-4 miles. I think if I rest some I can reduce the back pain. Last year I did a course of steroids at this time and did the same right before MCM. I may do the same because sitting in the car is not fun at all for me. The ride too and from Va Beach will not be good but I can put the seat down to lay down and it usually helps. Today was sunny and beautiful. Hope it stays this way for a long time. There was still some icy snow in the shady parts of this paved trail but there was a single file cleared area and could run very easily.We will be there next week too. At least I get a break from the hills.