This is sort of a race report but not really at the same time. I am not in marathon shape and haven't stressed about running due to graduate school and everything else keeping me busy in my life. Things should settle down next May when school is done. I decided to pace Dave Holt for the second half of the marathon today. I drove up to Snow Canyon and snuck on to the course while dodging the police cars. I ended up hiding in a few bushes. I ran up to the half and waited for Dave to show up. Crazy seeing Jon and Fritz hit the half in 1:10:00. Smoking! They both finished strong. Saw Dave coming about 5 minutes later and I jumped in. The weather was not cold but it was not as cold as in past years. Started chatting with Dave and he was in about 15th or 16th place at the time. Kept it relaxed and let the downhill help us. I ended up getting Dave's bottles for him and helping him stay relaxed. I almost got kicked off the course a few times because I did not have an official race bib. Oh well. I didn't drink any of the fluids on the course so I felt justified. Tyson Boyer hopped in with about 5 or so miles to go. Dave was doing well still but I could tell he was hurting. Kept telling him to be positive and try and catch some guys. Made it to the finish line and cut off the course with Tyson to make sure no one would be disqualified. Dave ended up running just under 2:30. Really stoked for him and glad he ran well. We ended up hitting 5:37/mile for the second half.
It motivated me to just keep doing whatever I can right now and then get going again next May. Another fun day pacing.
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