Right away I passed a bunch of people. Next time I am started at the 7 min pace marker, seriously. I wish this didn't get to me. I ended up passing 643 people. The road was very slick in spots so I tried to find the best footing and stay nimble. I ran hard when I could, but my pace was all over the place. I just tried to keep at it until the end without stopping or slowing too much. Not a day for a PR :) The last time I ran this it was a much smaller crowd and done in reverse, so I can't really compare the time.

After getting through the finish line slow-down I made quickly towards the bag pickup. I flashed my bib to the teenage kid working my lane and he grabbed it pretty fast. They were situated by the 3rd Ave/Central bridge, so I just crossed the river there. My car was near the end of the Stone Arch Bridge, but this make sense. I don't plan on doing this race again, but I would suggest to anyone that they park by St. Anthony Main. The jog from there, across Stone Arch, to the race start would make a perfect warmup. Then, after going to bag pickup, the car would be just a short distance away. Since I had my winter jacket to put on, I was perfectly happy to make the extended walk and enjoyed the sunshine.


It blows my mind that my performance earned a top 20% placement in my AG and in women overall. I think it's primarily due to this race attracting a lot of newbies or people who aren't out to "race". Whatever, it makes me feel better :)