Coming into the race my plan was just to run with Steve, given it's only my 2nd real run since the Great Pumpkin back in mid-October. But we got separated from him when he went to the bathroom right before the start. So being all alone, I decided to give sub-40 a try. Why not, right? As expected, I had no business attempting that, and ran positive splits for the first 5 miles (first 5k may or may not have been under 20:00, it was close). Somewhere in the 5th mile an older runner came up on me and said "come on, stay with me" and it was just what I needed. I hung with him and even dropped my pace back down for a 6:32 6th mile. With about 3/4 to 1/2 mile to go, I thought maybe I had a shot at sub-41 if I picked it up, so I left him for a strong finish. An extra kick on the homestretch and I snuck right under it.

Probably should've ran with Steve, but had fun pushing myself instead.

Walked around a bit, then to my car to change coats. Stretched a little while waiting to reconvene with the guys near the finish line.


Still just coming off of an abbreviated offseason.


Had a good time, glad I ended up signing up at the last minute.