ING Hartford Marathon - Run

Run went very smoothly. Nice even pace the whole way, kept it just below the redline. Best race in a couple of years. Unfortunately, I ran out of gels, and they didn't have any when I needed it. Took last one at 19, thinking the 22 mile stop had some, and was sorely mistaken. I talked myself thru the wall, and just took extra gatorade at each stop. Really felt good until about 22.5 and then felt OK until 24. Gutted out hte last 2.2 miles, wiht 3 seconds to spare for a BQ

take and extra gel from the earlier stop.

walked around a bit and found the fam. Sat on the curb for 5 mintues to rest, then walked back to the hotel


1 gel too few


Very good race. Very organized. The shirts are hideous, plus they ran out at the expo. It didn't bother me not getting one, because they are so ugly Perfect fall weather. I wouldn't call it a flat course, there are a few rolling hills, and unfortunately, there are several in the lat couple of miles. Lots of volunteers, huge post race spread, although it was an absolute mad house with so many people around. Maybe they could have separate finishers areas for the half nad full, like they do at hte Country Music in Nashville. Overall, a great race, nice staging area in downtown, great organization. Would recommend to anyone trying for a BQ in the fall. It worked for me!