Got there just in time to start with the Back of packers, which left that whole "running the tangent" thing impossible. I bobbed and weaved for the first 5 miles. I was in the mid 7/mile and hit a 23 minute 5k. At that time I decided to maintain sub 8 minute miles as long as I could and challenge myself to set a new PR. I was not feeling up to the task, but decided to suck it up and try anyway. The hills on the last three miles started making my pace drop a little, but at this point I had a budget of 8:30 miles, no problem there. I ended up running 13.37 miles according to the garmin. I am extremely pleased with the result- especially considering I did not feel up to the task from the start.

Better preparation mentally and physically. Training time has been tough to come by recently. I feel lucky that I have been able to maintaint some reasonable fitness. I honestly think it comes more from mental toughness than anything- knowing I can and have to do it.

saw Kraig, then the rest of the crew. quickly felt the cold air and started shivering


lack of training, extra weight


everything was wel organized and laid out well except the gear pick up/drop off. they really did Improve from last year overall however