The last big hill surprised me - I didn't expect it to be that dang long! My 1st mile was at 7:40, and I pushed the second one hard, too, but never saw any Mile signs after the first (just KM). I was still passing people on that last hill, but not the way I had hoped to. When I hit the flat before the final bridge, I picked up my pace and turnover, but I knew by then that I wouldn't hit my goal time. Still, I gave it everything I had, and while I'm bummed about my final time, I know where I currently am, and where I should be for the BB and next month's tris.

I noticed that people have issues running hills - FREE DOWNHILL TIP! - lengthen your stride and let gravity do the work. Lean forward a little, shoot for a mid-foot landing, and suck up as much speed as you can. I passed a TON of people on the downhills. I also passed quite a few going uphill, but if you want my secrets for the uphill, you'll have to pay!

Should've stuck with my usual pre-race breakfast, but I thought I could get more carbs with a 'normal' breakfast. Need to keep doing hills and intervals.

Stuck waiting in the timing chute, waiting on the pokey person to grab numbers. Walked around for about 10 minutes to loosen up, got some water and a carb drink (and stocked up on all the free schwag I could get!)


My genetics? Look, I'm a big guy - my whole paternal side is big (though I'm actually the lightest at 203!) I'm also damn near 40, and didn't really get into this sport until last year, so I think I did well.


All in all, a good race. I may do this one again - heck the schwag I got cost much more than the entry fee! The course was fun, lots of bridges and tunnels (and one more hill than I was ready for!), with some awesome views of the Flatirons (hills, not just the Mall).

Right after the gun went off, the whole pack started jostling for position, and not too many got a clean breakaway. I elbowed a couple of people on accident, and got kicked once. A group of early shoppers happened to be watching, and suddenly they ALL started clapping. That was pretty motivating.