Did I have an off day or do I have serious problems?

Question

I run the 2 mile for my high school track team. Three weeks ago I ran an 11:12 and I came in first place. I felt strong during that race. Today, I ran the race again and I got an 11:50. I don't really understand what went so wrong to make me 38 seconds off my pace. I didn't get a great nights sleep, and due to heavy rain we haven't practiced really at all the past week. Also, I sustained a lower ankle strain earlier the previous week and I think I couldn't really push off the way I wanted to. That being said, I don't want to rationalize or make excuses.... am I just having an off day here, or do I have some more serious problems to work with? Will I be able to bring my time back down to where it was?

Answer 1

i'm sure all those "excuses" are you problem...

Answer 2

Wow good job w/an 11:12!! Just an off day...nothing to worry about too much.  You went down 38 seconds because of all of that: lack of sleep, not much practice, & lower ankle strain.  So, get some sleep, take care of your ankle, and hopefully get in some practice, and you'll be good to go!

And heck yes you'll be able to bring it down! Possibly even PR!

Good Luck! :D