I originally signed up for the full marathon hoping that it would kick start my desire to run again. After the first couple weeks of training, I let life get in the way and adequate training just didn't happen. This has happened too many times to me over the last few years. Switched to the half but knew that I still wasn't in very good shape to turn in the performance that I expect. Worked the expo the day before the race so my pre-race nutrition probably wasn't the best. I'll try to think of a few more excuses before the end of the report.
On the morning of the race we got to the bus pickup at a decent time (5:20) but had to wait for over an hour for the first round of buses to come back back down the canyon to get us. Because of the bus issues, the race started 25 minutes late. Not a big deal for me since I was waiting down the canyon where it was warmer. We only had to be in the freezing cold for 15 minutes. I printed off a 1:25 paceband knowing it was a bit aggressive but I wanted to beat my AF half time (1:26:4x). First mile was 10 seconds slower than projected pace. Was hoping it was just because I had to get into a flow but the next few miles were also 10 seconds over projected pace. Was content with maintaining that effort and coming in at 1:27. The steep sections of the canyon were too steep. I couldn't get into a good rhythm and found myself falling behind the other runners. As we made our way out of the canyon and the course flattened out (with a slight incline to start) I began moving past a lot of people. Desparately needed an energy gel at the halfway point but they only had water and Gatorade at the aid stations (I inadvetently left mine in my drop bag). Never did push myself as hard as I could but felt like I still put in a really good effort. Finished in 1:27:20. Kind of disappointing because the course is so aided but it is a true indication of where I am running wise. Hoping that I can somehow find the desire to run again, drop 15 pounds and be able to put in a decent performance.
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