Felt good and pushed myself more than I expected to given some challenges. I came into the race expecting to pace a 1:45. There was no 1:45 group, so I started with 1:40 and anticipated fading from that group throughout the race. After the first 3 miles the 1:40 was still not far ahead, we were over a couple of the bigger hills and I felt strong. So I decided to make my way back up to the pacer on a downhill and changed the plan to stay with the 1:40 group the rest of the race. I missed a key 8 mile pacing workout in training because I was working with a client at a slower pace, part of the job!!! So I thought I'd give the 1:40 group a go through 8 miles and re-assess. After 8 I felt "ok", stayed with them. At 10 I was starting to feel it, but no way was I given up with 5k left. At 12 I REALLY gave it all I had, passed the pacer and came into the finish strong!

nothing

walk, drink, eat, stretch, repeat!


I hate doing this because everyone deals with things on race day! I've had a terrible season so far. I've been sick constantly with sinus/allergy issues, and I cracked a tooth in three places the week before the race. Had to rush into the dentist to get it fixed a few days before the race. Given those circumstances, relative to my training and current pacing, I'm extremely happy with my results. It's not a PR, but it's way better than I expected on the given day.




REALLY good race!! I was very impressed with organization. Parking was close to the start/finish too, which was a huge plus. Much more desirable to me to do a smaller race this well organized than go down to the city, near me (Chicago), and participate in a large race with limited parking and deal with traffic.