Ok, Craig, this race report is for you. I, too, was one of the lucky suckers who had the privilege of riding in the Ragnar Chariot of Sweetness -- we arrived in style with Craig heckling anyone he could with the loud speaker. Honestly, I don't remember the last time I laughed so hard or had so much fun.
On the morning of the race, I felt good and well-rested (and I NEVER sleep the night before a race). I had a cold that I was still battling from earlier in the week -- I wonder if that was why I just felt gassed out and lead-legged through the majority of the race. I feel like I trained successfully during the winter and I'm disappointed that my finish time didn't reflect that -- that just means I gotta work harder now.
The weather conditions at the start of the race were perfect. Something I'll keep in mind for the next race with a later start time: eat a big enough breakfast. I started to get hungry around the start time of the race. Clif Blocks just don't satisfy.
I can't give a mile by mile run down like Craig did (just 'cause I don't have the time right now -- maybe later). Ultimately, I realized that the course is as tough as the others had told me. I felt like my left leg was about two inches longer than my right. This as a result of my chiropractor appointment/back adjustment a few days prior to the race. But on a good note, I finally feel like my right hip is on the mend. I just have to learn how to run with a normal spine again. Props to Dominique to finishing the race on a broken foot! I promise I tried to convince her to stop.
Some of the highlights of the race: a smooth, controlled start with Coach and ma girls, running with Dominique most of the course, the massive drums that echoed for miles, running into Lander around mile 12, running into Maggie's husband, Scott, at about mile 12.5, of course the reunion at the finish line. I'm super-proud of my husband for completing his first half-marathon without me by his side!
Now, I just can't wait for another chance to show 'em what I've got!! | 