OKC Memorial Half Marathon - RunHalf Marathon

This was my first Half Marathon and would be my longest run to date. I was hoping to run under 1:38 or better, (7:30 pace or better), I decided I would use Jason to help pace me until the courses split between mile 7 and 8. The course was downhill to start and the first mile flew by as we chatted, although we ran it in almost 8 minutes. It was definately a warm-up. The next few miles we sped up until we ran mile 5 in about 6:55. I was feeling really well for running that pace. The wind had been pretty rough for a few parts but I knew we were headed for the pace I wanted so I made sure I kept up. Told Jason to have a good race, and I split off on to my route. Another guy had been running with us most of the way and he split off with me on the half route. We kept chatting and stuck together until near the 11 mile mark. I usually eat a gu somewhere around 8 or 9 miles but I didn't have the desire to eat it nor did I feel like I needed it. I had a sip of powerade around mile 6 and a sip of water at mile 8 but with the cool air and the great night's rest I felt great the whole way. I missed the 9 mile sign and thought I was off pace until I was told had just passed 5K left, then I realized I was doing much better then I thought. I pushed through the last hill and passed the last turn. I could see the finish and picked up my pace. I heard them calling names at the finish line and could see the clock and decided I better finish under 1:33 so I picked it up some more. They called my name and I held my arms up and crossed. I was extremly happy with my time.

I walked through the finishers area and got some food to eat. Took the blanket to wrap up in since it was still pretty cool and I relaized I wasn't getting my jacket until Lisa finished. I made sure to stretch out a couple times and drink some water and gatorade. It took another hour and a half until Lisa and Jason finished, we gathered our things and headed back to the hotel.


I have never raced this distance before so I wasn't really sure how to pace myself. It helped a lot to be able to just hang with someone the whole race.


I liked the race, a lot of people through the whole course to chear and great volunteers at the aid stations with all sorts of help. I'd definately recommend the race.