I wore my HRM, but tried not to look at it. I started in front of the 4:30 pace group and ran at a pace that felt good. I check my HR about 2 miles in, and it was 170. This seemed high to me, but it felt good, so I kept the pace. I ate a powergel with water every 4 miles. At mile 15 I started to feel icky and needed to use the restroom (I hadn't "taken care of business" in over 3 days, and it finally caught up with me). Felt much better after using the portalet at mile 15. The next few miles were kind of tough mentally, but soon I got into the grove. At mile 20 I needed to use the bathroom again, and this time I spent more time in there than I wanted to. Started running again and felt pretty good. My legs were tired and sore, but I was still good mentally. The last couple rolling hills were especially rough, but I was able to finish strong.

Nothing. I think I nailed my nutrition.

I walked around the baseball park for at least 10 minutes, and then I headed up to get some food.


The bathroom! But that was out of my control. I had back spasms 3 days before the race, and I think the muscle relaxers stalled my system.


My first marathon, so I have nothing to compare it to... but I think it was well organized. The course was very enjoyable. I'd love to do it again! The weather was PERFECT. The start was about 45 degrees, but it warmed up to 65!