They called us to the line about ten minutes before the race. Brandy was doing the 5k and wanted to start towards the back. Figured I would hang out with her for awhile and make my way towards the front before the gun went off. Next thing I know, I hear "runners set, ..." So much for making it near the front. Hopped over to the grass and thankfully had a pretty easy time of finding some running room.

Did the first mile in 6:45--way too fast. Took my time at the first aid station and then settled into a nice pace. Got humbled about a half mile from the turnaround when a guy pushing a jogging stroller passed me on an uphill. Made it my personal mission to pass him back. Hit the turn around in 22:40. Knew I was on pace for a PR and that I had a chance to break 45:00.

Run back in was pretty uneventful. Took water at every aid station and tried to stay in the shade as much as possible. Hit the one mile to go marker and the watch read 38:00. Gave it everything I had left in an attempt to break 45:00 but came up a bit short. Did manage to pass the jogging stroller with about a quarter mile to go--a good thing to, that was difference between third in the age group and fourth in the age group.

A few minor things. Line up closer to the front. Not go out quite so hard in the first mile.

Found Brandy (who set a PR in the 5k--and took third in her age group) and walked around a bit. Grabbed some water and a banana while waiting for the awards.


Nothing. Didn't taper at all for this race and still set a PR by about 3 minutes.


A low key race, but VERY well run (on time, organized, lots of volunteers). Would definately consider doing it again.