This was really a training run for me, so goal was to go out first 2 miles at about 8 min. pace, then slowly build pace from there.
I got in the corral right behind the 8 Min pace sign, and starting out was very pace conscious, not wanting to push to hard early like I tend to do. I let a lot of people pass me. Despite that, I hit the first mile at 7:30. Normally this would concern me because I went out faster than plan, but because the pace felt controlled I figured I could just carry that through.
Second mile was 7:42. I slowed a bit, but not consciously. I still just told myself to maintain pace.
After the second mile I got on the heels of a guy with a very similar pace and ran with him for the next two (occasionally taking my turn at the front to be fair). Mile 3 was 7:30 and Mile 4 was 7:37.
Just ahead of the mile 4 marker I was feeling strong so I decided to push from there. Knocked out the last mile in 6:57 which made me very happy!

If this was more of an A race I would have pushed harder in the middle miles, but as a training race, I felt great to control my pace and still end up with a good time.

Light jog back home


Nothing


I was glad to see expected pace signs in the corral to help sort people. They also did a decent job of keeping the course clear. I'm sure they did their best since we were running on a public path.
The race start was less than a mile from my condo, so no brainer to participate. Perfect race distance for my long run day!