This is my fourth running of this race so I knew what to expect at the start: a nice gentle (almost imperceptible at times) decent for the first 5 miles or so. My pace was on the quick side with this in mind and I was feeling good so I kept it going.

Miles 4 through 8 follow the same route as the Amgen 2013 and 2014 stages ending at Avila Beach. At mile 7 there is a turn up a short but somewhat steep hill where Jens Voigt made his victory break away in 2013. As I ran up the hill I kept thinking to myself "Shut up legs!" while recalling watching his breakaway on the TV's at the finish line in Avila.

After running down the hill the course turned onto a local favorite multi-use path that I run often so I was back in familiar territory. The elevation change shifted to a slight incline and my pace slowed down a bit as the miles started to take it's toll. At the end of the trail there was a short flat then it was up the toughest hill of the course for most of mile 10.

Cresting the hill the ocean came into view, the water was calm and I wished I was out on my paddle board! Through the next couple miles of rolling terrain my pace stayed steady. The course turned downhill towards the cliffs above the ocean and the view was even better. The final mile sloped back up hill and I kept a steady pace with the finish line was not far off.

Back at the main road I knew the finish line was near. Another short downhill segment back towards the cliffs followed by yet another short uphill to the finish line. The cheering crowed helped me push the final distance and I finished with what little was left in my legs.

Overall a good run

Stretched my legs and drank some water. Met up with my friend who did the 5k and headed back home.


One of my favorite local races.