So-so race for me. Can't say it was a total disappointment for me, but I was hoping for better. Same time for me as my last 2 half marathons, but I was hoping for improvement. Obviously, the elements (heat and wind) played a major factor in the race for everyone. Plan was to shoot for 1:20, which probably would have been tough for me on a good day, with James. Also met up with Jeff L at the top. Plan was to average 5:50's down the canyon. First 3 miles running with James and Jeff went as planned (5:56, 5:58, 5:58). Then boom, the wind hit. With no change in effort our pace dropped 20-30 seconds. Maintained our pace in the low 6:00's, but probably too much effort too early for that pace (6:07, 6:20, 6:13, 6:02). Came out of the canyon at about 6:05 pace, about 10 seconds slower than wanted. Knew 1:20 wasn't going to happen, but still wanted a decent time. Stayed with Jeff and James until the aid station on foothill, when they pulled away from me. It was hot down in the valley and my hydration was poor, so I started walking through them to ensure I was drinking enough. Was able to keep up a decent pace for the next couple of miles (6:29, 6:07). Then, I kind of blew up. Motivation wasn't great, I had lost Jeff and James and was running alone. So, definitely didn't finish the race strong (6:42, 6:51, 6:53, 7:01, 0:51). Not terribly upset about the race, but definitely not happy. Would have liked to finish stronger than I did. Ran the same time as UV half marathon a month ago, but much different feel after the race with how I finished. But, time to move on and get ready for St. George. I may need to take a few days off to try and heal up some aches. My right Achilles' tendon has really been bothering my lately. There is a big bump on the heel (Haglunds deformity) that has flared up lately. I have been working through it lately, but want to get it feeling better as I prepare for St. George. Will rest and cross train the next few days to see how it feels. Anyone with experience with this let me know what helps. Congrats to all who ran well on a tough day. Fritz was solid as always and Josh E had a great race. James and Jeff also ran great, wish I could have stayed with them. | 