White Rock Half Marathon - RunHalf Marathon

Personal Best!!!

I came into this year's race with conservative goals. For the past month I was battling a calf injury and had to cycle to keep my fitness. I ran the week leading up to the race to get my legs back. I wanted to run a steady race and not walk. I ran the first four miles with one of my runners from Luke's for about four miles and then pulled away. My body was comfortable with the pace I was running so I went with it.

Overall, this was a good race. I tried to hydrate more because I have a tendency to underhydrate and get dehydrated. I felt I did better this year, taking time at each water stop to drink one or two cups of water. I carried a bottle of Heed for electrolytes.

I hit a wall around mile 11 but hung on for a solid race. I'm very pleased.

1. I need to continue to work on my hydration strategy. Perhaps a fuel belt to supplement the aid stations.
2. Blister defense. I had to lance two of the ugliest, nastiest blisters I've ever gotten. Massive ick ick ick.
3. Preventing the late race bonk. I had an opportunity to possibly break 2 hours, but my body was at its limit for the day. Then again, I lost three weeks training due to injury.
4. End post-race wooziness. I had to sit for 15 minutes or more because I was too light headed to stand. I want to limit this.

Sitting on the curb, relying on the kindness of strangers for water, fruit, and a heat blanket. I was so tight and sore.


The lost three weeks of training probably kept me from breaking 2 hours. That led to the body slowing down over the last couple of miles.


For such a large race, it is extremely well run and staffed. The volunteers were plentiful and helpful. I think the only complaint I have is placing the finisher medal and T-shirt stations right at the finish line. Too much congestion.

And I cannot forget to give a big thinks to all of the Dallas Police volunteers for keeping the course safe for the runners. Finally, the number of spectators and their support was off the hook! And I only ran the half. I suspect the crowds were just as loud on the marathon course.

I recommend this race to anybody, from experience runners to the first time half marathoner. Thank you, White Rock Marathon staff, for another great race.