Well - this isn't the way I wanted to write my first race report on BT but, I need to suck it up and deal. I'm not really sure what happened. The first half felt great and I was running on target at the half (1:57). Shortly after 12mi, I developed major stomach burning and reflux, not something I normally have a problem with. I had one gel at mile 6, but couldn't take anything after that other than water, and occasionally a bit of gatorade.

During the second half, I also had really weird low back pain, almost like charley-horse cramping, but in my back. I walked a TON after mile 18 and stopped to stretch but it didn't help. I've never had that sort of thing in a race either.

At mile 6, I dropped my long sleeved shirt and regretted it later when I walked.

I really contemplated quitting but after telling myself how ridiculous that would be, I finished. My stomach actually felt better after about mile 22. But my back was still on fire. I'm glad I finished because, even though I feel bad about this race, I'd feel even worse if I was a quitter.

I've run the distance before, but this was my first marathon after a 3-year hiatus due to job obligations and multiple moves. I felt like I trained harder with more targeted work-outs, but I don't think it was enough. I've never felt this bad during a race - unfortunately, I'd call this my worst race ever. I usually run even mile splits but today - not so much.

Well, it looks like I need to re-investigate yoga and core strength training to deal with the back issue. I think I have a very weak and inflexible core and I haven't trained that area like I should have.

I'm not sure what else, maybe increase overall mileage or cross training. I always feel like I don't have enough time but I think I have to change that mindset. Maybe I need to hire a coach or something.

Walked around a bit. I felt really cold so didn't hang out much at the finish line. Had lunch with fam - ate a bowl of soup. After arriving home, I built a fire in the fireplace, put my feet up, and licked my wounds. My back feels no better, even this morning - hopefully the heating pad, NSAIDs, and stretching will help.


Stomach issues and subsequent lack of nutrition during the race, lack of core strength, and lack of mental fortitude?