Overall goal for this race was a 9 min/mi pace. The last year on the more technical course, I ran at 7:30's - 8:00 miles untill I fizzled out at mile 9. This year my goal was to take it slow and steady and if I had anything left at the end, I would crank it up. I ran 3 9;00 miles to start. then a 9:30 with a huge uphill. I managed a 7:40 at mile 10, mostly downhill. When I hit mile 12, my goal now was to pick up pace as best I could. I run along the river all the time, so I knew I had mostly flat stretches for the rest of the way. I picked it up to an 8:40 at 12, followed by two 8:30's at 13, and 14. 15 had to be quick as I would see someone in front, and track them down. This happened 3 times in the final 1.5 miles with the 3rd time being a sprint past someone at the line.
This event is a very challenging, technical, trail run with varying terrains of big, and little, and huge rocks. It would be a great run for any trail runner.

I think I hit it perfectly this year, based on last years humbling failure.

Walked around the venue and chatted with other contestents. I ran into a woman I knew from growing up who is a runner at the start of race, so when I finished, I went and cheered her across the line. I met PrivateIdaho at the finish. He introduced himself. My first meeting of someone on BT. Awesome.


Lack of Speed.


Personally, I like aid stations every 2 miles, but I carry 70oz. of water with me, so I realize I need water. This course has them spread out to every 3 miles, so a guy like me needs his own water. I drink every mile in training and racing, then whenever thirsty after 12 miles or so.