I started out at about a 7:00 mile pace for the first half mile or so and that was enough to get some separation from the majority of the pack before the woods section started. I ran many of these trails in training so I knew (kind of) what to expect as far as terrain and difficulty. The first big hill at about 1 mile also helped to string people out so it was never really crowded after that. There were no mile markers except at the (3) aid stations so I tried to measure my pace by having my countdown timer on my watch go off every 9 minutes. Using that, and my general knowledge of the course I hoped to be under 2 hours.

Fell into a good pace and traded places with a couple guys for the first 6-7 miles. I was surprised to see some of the people who passed me coming to a complete stop at the aid stations to drink, eat, rest, etc. I know I made up several places by getting by them when they stopped. I never saw them again.

The second half was harder because of the steeper non-stop elevation changes and general "gut" fatigue. I planned to have a gel every 30 minutes as I do when I do long training runs, but I really didn't feel like having more than the first two, which I believe was a mistake. I should have started them earlier and used all three. At about 10 miles I started to force myself to drink more water (what, am I going to feel worse?). I kept thinking of the race review I read on BT where the first line of the description of the run portion of the triatholn was, "I felt a lot better after I threw up..." It's funny where you draw inspiration from. The water helped after a mile or so and I started to feel better...go figure.

By the time I got back to the road for the last half mile or so, my "gut" felt much better, but I had already gotten behind on my water - my calves were cramping if I went too hard. Time to back off and finish up.

This was my first half marathon race, though I had run this distance a couple times before. The course was the hardest race I've ever done because of the rocks, mud, leaves and elevation changes.

I have to get better at eating/drinking while running at a faster pace. This is a problem I can fix.

A big accellerade and get in the car to warm up. The wind kicked up and I started to get cold in my sweaty clothes. Drove home quick and took a whirlpool and watched some football.


I should have drank/ate more earlier in the race, even though I didn't "feel" thirsty/hungry. I know better.


Lots of good, useful SWAG. The aid stations were outstanding, the course was very clearly marked. This was the best organized race I've ever participed in...I cannot think of how they could have improved it. I hope they do it again next year...I know I can go faster!