I ran with the 4:00 pace group, which advertised as running an even pace throughout, but given the hills and windy stretches our leader wisely varied the pace quite a bit. We started out more quickly than I expected, at around 8:45 miles (long downhill, no wind), to put some time in the bank for the more difficult miles ahead. Uphill miles were in the 9:20 to 9:40 range, depending on how steep and windy the segment. I was happy that I was pretty even on the half splits despite fading on the last ~ 2 mi.

I need to work on race nutrition - I had trouble getting calories in during the last 10 miles. Next time, I wouldn't drop my pace group to use the porta-potty right at the base of a 2-mile climb - it took me the whole hill to catch up and I probably burned too much energy, although I had fun doing it. Otherwise, I was very happy with the run.

Stumbled through the line for medallions, gatorade, and snacks that I could barely look at (gave them to my kids and ate later). Stretched half-heartedly. Shivered. After I took a shower, we had to clean up the house we were staying in, which actually made for a good (if late) warm-down.


I think the fade at the end was more of an endurance problem than a hills problem. I did better with the hills than I expected (I actually like running uphill), but needed more long runs in the training bank.


Excellent, fun event with a lot of local flavor, ranging from the local middle school bands to fresh strawberries along the way. Clearly a labor of love for the organizers.