Gobbler grind - RunHalf Marathon

My goal was to run 9 min mile and break the 2 hr barrier. My longest run to date has been 8 miles so I was unsure how I would fare. The race start was extremely crowded since a majority of the runners were doing the 5k. I ran the 5K in approx 25 min and was concerned I would not be able to hold this pace for the entire race. I was able to average 2 min under my 9min pace through the first 6 miles. I took 2 Cola flavored Cliff Blocks followed by water at the aid station....but did develop some GU pain shortly after taking these blocks. I am not sure if this was due to the gel blocks or my pace (Faster than planned). I was able to keep my pace through the first 12 miles and then started to accelerate my pace to try to break 1:55 when I realized this was possible. Unfortunately, my right calf started to lock up and I needed to dial back to make sure my muscle did not fully lock up. I was excited to beat my goal with my limited run training.

Evaluate the gel Blocks (Cola flavored has caffeine) on long training runs...Was this what caused my GI issues?

Bananas, grapes, chocolate milk, bar, and orange.


Good race....