My first half marathon, and the first time I have ever run more than 10 miles. Felt pretty good overall out there today. Took a mile or two to get warmed up but after that I was able to keep a mostly sustainable pace.

Split at the 10-mile mark was 1:20, so apparently I slowed down a bit for the last 5k, although I didn't feel like it.

I was saving a bit of extra kick for the very end, expecting the finish line to be up the hill near the stadium where the start line was. But it ended somewhat abruptly in the middle of the road. I had a bit left in the tank and probably could have cut off another 20-30 seconds if I had known.

Stretched, waited for a buddy to finish, and froze my tail off. Didn't stay for much after-party because I got so cold.


This was the inaugural race of the Annapolis Half, so I guess some hiccups are to be expected. The race has potential, but there are some things the organizers really need to work on:

1. The race started 20 minutes late because the course wasn't cleared in time. This wouldn't be a big deal if it were warmer, but standing around in 35-degrees in running clothes is not much fun.

2. There were no mile markers on the course, which was annoying because I don't like to wear my Garmin when I race. Oddly, I saw a big pile of mile markers lying on the ground at the finish line. No idea why they didn't put them up.

3. No gatorade at the finish. Maybe this is picky, but for a $100 entry fee it would be nice to have more to drink than just water.

4. Absolutely need to re-route or otherwise fix the trail section of the course, especially if they are hoping to grow this race. Way too crowded, slowed folks down, and dangerous.