The wind was rather brisk so I had to keep my second layer on. I took it off for a few miles and got cold. In general, it was a good run. I probably could have pushed it more, but it was my first half. I wasn't sure how I'd do in the end. The training runs I had done were at the most 9 miles, so I wanted to make sure I didn't over extend myself in the first third of the race. I was at 54 min at 6 miles and 1:50 at 12 miles. My watch said 2:00:23 when I stopped it, but my official time was 2:01:03. Since I wasn't under 2 hours, no cheesecake for me.

Also, I ate a gel at 6 miles and at 10. I also had water at 10 miles. I think a hydration belt would help me. I had to stop and drink the water & gatorade. I've tried to fold the cups before and it sort of works. But at that point, I really needed a drink just to clear all the goo.

Run a full half before race day. I wasn't sure I would make the distance, but now I know. I would also build in cross training on the bike on rest days. When I was biking, the sprint work and tempo runs just seemed easier.

Warm-down? Don't you mean, warm-up? I was freezing after the race. My clothes were wet and it was windy. I had to stand in a crowd of people just to stay warm. We left for the car though quickly and I was able to change into dry warm clothes. That's the thing I like least about races. I'm always so cold afterward. Even after the Turtleman Tri in August, I had to put on a sweatshirt and pants.


This race is very fun. There were lots of kids out to see the runners dressed in costume. Next year, I think I should dress like Pippi Longstocking. The route was also beautiful, when I actually noticed it.