Dallas White Rock Marathon - Half Marathon - RunHalf Marathon

Overall, this was a successful but average race. I reached my goal of running a sub-2:11 race. However, to get to that time was a struggle. I began the race running with the 2:00 hour pace group. I was doing fine. The pace felt fine. I thought I could handle it. Shortly after 30 minutes, a heavy sensation hit my legs--as if lead was poured into my legs from the waist. It was freaky and distracting. I lost the pace group shortly after that. I also encountered problems with a blister on my right middle toe. This is the same problem I had during the Tour Des Fleurs race. It was painful and I had to run with it for more than half of the race. I continued to slow my pace, and as I did my feet and legs grew more and more sore. I eventually added walk intervals within in each mile. By the end of the race, the 2:10 hour pace group caught me and I finished with them to cross the line at 2:09.

For one, I need to sleep better the night before. I need to buy some better socks to try to control the blister problem. The dropping energy levels over the course of the race bother me. I took several gels over the course of the run for fuel, but they sure didn't seem to help. I need to review my fueling and hydration strategy. I now know that I can complete a half marathon, but can I do one after swimming and running? The final thing I need to work on is mental strength. My mind failed me today when the going got tough.

Limping around, trying to stay lucid. Contorting my body into "stretches."


Not sure at this point. My body broke down in ways it had not during training. I have a lot of "game tape" to review on this one.


This was my first White Rock event as a participant. Everything was run very well with lots of volunteers. I really liked the port-o-potties at the finish line. A great touch that I found especially useful (TMI, I know).