The knee was somewhat sore the first couple of miles, but then eased up. It was stiff afterward, but that is "normal" recently. I pushed somewhat so my finish time was a little disappointing. This was slower than Rock the Parkway when I had no time goal!

Did pick off a few key individuals. It was a super small race (about 70 participants) so I was either by myself or with only 1 or 2 runners in sight for most of the race. I picked off one lady at about 4 miles, and then there were 3 people in front of me (in my sight) at the half. I first (finally!) got the Gallowalker but dang she was tough! Then at the last aid station (a little over a mile out) I got the woman and man in front of me. I did kick it up for that last mile but not too much left in the tank after the hills.

Not sure. I think I have lost quite a bit of endurance and speed. I need to get my long runs beyond 13 miles because this is the most I have run (although due to injury) in 2011. Need to slowly build the mileage back up. Nothing else can prepare for the hills, despite the fact that I run in a hilly area.

Oh - I forgot about the nutrition! I had a pineapple Gu roctane and then brought honey stinger chews. Even though I was not "racing", I still cannot adequately chew the stingers on the run. I have to reserve them for training only.

Walked a little and stretched lightly. Probably not enough.


Still coming back from injury; knee still not 100%, HILLS!


I would not do this race again. Small finisher's medal and no age group medals. Only some fruit and a few bags of chips at the end. There was a "prize table" so I got to choose a Royal's hat and a candle. I guess I should not complain. Biggest bummer was the hills.