Charlottesville Marathon - RunMarathon

I had very little expectations for this race. Little preparation since the last marathon, and a very hilly course. I would have been very pleased with a 3:35. I started out running 7:40s or so and it felt alright. By mile 9, with all of hte hills, I thuought that it would end very ugly like Vegas marathon. The first loop after the half way point went very well. It was nice and flat along the river, and then we had a big climb, which I ran up and felt strangely good. Igot to the top with renewed confidence. As I started the second lap, I was passing all of the people on their first lap, and it kept me motivated to keep picking them off. I sagged just a little in 22-23, but then realized that sub 2:25 was in reach. I was able to keep pushing and easily beat 2:25. Several of the mile markers were off, I went back and forth from 8:30 to 7:00 miles. I ended up feeling very good, ran 7:18 for the last mile - if it was accurate.

Nothing.

walked the mile back to the hotel. The post-race spread sucked.


hills


The race was really good. No expo, but packet pick-up was easy. Race was on time. Lots of water stops. No GU on the course, even though they advertisedit as being there at 3 stops. Hilly course. Great weather, great city.