AM: Pure Detroit 5k in 18:29. HR 184 (for race)
2.5 up/2 down. This was my first all-out race since Broad Street 2016. I have done two races (both Glass City Half). One was about 95% effort (or rather about 100% effort after 4 miles). This was my first Michigan race since we moved 2 years ago. Three things: it was hot, I won, and I am happy to be racing again
I was soaking wet warming up. I did some short strides and lined up, eyeing up the people who were likely to beat me. Got out in maybe 10th, but I could tell it was typical local race super heroes. By perhaps a half mile or so, I was in second and the young guy I pegged to win was about 50 meters out. I started to gain on him into the first mile. It felt fast but the effort was good. I didn't want to pass him as I figured he would crush me. At the same time, I didn't want to get in a kicking contest. I pulled ahead sooner than planned, some time before the 2-mile mark (around 1.5-1.8 I think). He seemed to wave me by as I rode his shoulder. At one water stop I think he grabbed a cup (didn't bother to ctually look) and I put a few steps on him. I told myself to push even if it meant puking or locking up. After a while I couldn't hear breathing or footsteps, so I tried to keep up the effort but with no racing (and thus race grit) it was hard. I managed a fairly strong finish. Miles 2, 3, and the partial had my heart rate soaring. I felt like I ran as hard as I could.
5:43 (176), 5:47 (185), 5:57 (189), 5:20 pace for partial (189)
Megan and I had a nice brunch in Midtown Detroit, which really is not as bad as everyone thinks. Getting to know the city a bit.
PM: 4.2 miles, averaged 10:29. HR 133. Hot and nasty
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