MTC Half Marathon Run/Walk - RunHalf Marathon

The weather changed drastically leading up to today's race. From beautiful, crisp 50s/60s to muggy, overcast, sticky 70s. Ugh. Not much I could do about it, though. Race started promptly at 8am, and I found a good groove about 1 mile into it. I was doing 10min run/30sec walk, and while a lot of people passed me at the beginning, I did end up catching several of them toward the end of the race. So, as usual, the run/walk strategy worked for me.

The course is run on the same road we do the cycling time trial, so I am familiar with a good portion of it, and I know it's pretty hilly. There's nothing steep, but a few are good and long. Plan was to run like I mean it and try to consistently hold MP or better (since the marathon is 4 weeks away). I was definitely consistent, and even as I tired at the end, I didn't really slow down. Not as fast as I would've hoped, but with the warmth and humidity, not too bad.

I still feel like I'm not quite up to marathon quality running yet. I had a few moments near the end of the race today where I thought I might just sign up for the half next month rather than the full distance. We'll see.

Also, left knee is an issue. I think it's tendonitis (jumper's knee). If so, it requires rest. That may impact mileage going into my last long run. It's a question for Coach Debi.

Not much. My performance didn't meet my goal (2:05), but was well within expectations (~2:10). I think with cooler, less humid weather, I could have run a minute or two faster.

Should have, but didn't.


Not as much early training. Got bogged down after my last HIM in October and feel like overall training mileage is down. Humidity and knee were also factors.


Nice, low key, organized race. I really don't like the cross-country popsicle stick (in this case, index cards) finish process. I much prefer tearing my tag and walking away. I think some people don't turn in their index cards... Someday, I know I'm going to up-chuck on some poor volunteer trying to get my runner data (label in pouch stapled to number). Given the warmth and humidity, there could've been one more water station.