Did the Utah to Arizona 10k today in St. George. I say 10k, but it was actually 6.4 miles? I don't think I 've ever done a 10k that has been that far off the mark. My time was 38:59, but had it been a real 10K of 6.2 miles I'm sure I would have been in the 37's somewhere.
Man it was hot. It started at 9:00 am, and for the hottest day of the year in St. George, that was a little late if you ask me. Despite the heat, late start, and the distance begin off, it was a pretty good race. It was an out an back course. When you hit the turn around point, a race official put an X on your bib with a marker! I felt bad for the middle of the pack runners. I can only imagine being the 100th person in line, waiting for my bib to be marked. I imagine there was a bottle neck. Yes, the race has a few bugs that need to worked out for next year, but a good experience anyway.
I was happy with my performance. I came into the race not knowing what to expect. I had taken some training days off prior when my wife had our new baby and I was sure it was going to show.
I feel I ran well. I came in 3rd overall, second in my age and only 10 seconds from second overall (Steve Hooper) and about 20 seconds from first overall (Mike). I felt well the entire run and the heat didn't really bother my. I dumped some water over my head at the turn around and that helped a lot.
The race was advertised as flat, but there were sure a lot of hills in there. I've finally completed my "Runners Series", so now I'm in the St. George marathon for sure!!
It was good to talk to some of St. George guys at the race, Bill and Steve. I think we were glad that Dustin and Clyde didn't make it, it made us look better. | 