IRON HORSE 100K Race Report
Started out humid and sort of cool (low 60's) at the start.
First 25 mile loop completed in 4:15, thinking it was a little bit fast but also wanted to take advantage of the cooler temps.
Second 25 mile loop in 4:28 - a bit slower, not completely by choice,
but at least partially, knowing I needed to slow down if I didn't want
to really crash.
First 50 miles in 8:43
I have a few more details and some pictures posted on my other blog Last 12 Miles
My math brain was working enough so that I knew 12 miles left, in 3
hours, or 15 minute miles would get me in under 12 hours. I stayed on a
strategy of running part of the mile, then walking until my pace for
that mile had gotten about 30 seconds slower than I wanted, then started
running again until the next mile.
Miscellaneous
Going into this race I felt like I did not know what I was doing and I was not sure whether or not I was properly prepared, I have some more confidence now but know there is a lot more to learn and room for improvement.
I walked through all the aid stations, refilling my drink bottles and
eating at least a little bit of solid food each time, but tried not to
waste time.
Out near the eastern end of the course, there was an old train bridge
with rotting railroad ties that the race staff had nailed sets of 2x6's
across. We were required to walk this section of about 320 feet. The
last time walking it I had some trouble keeping my balance on the
boards.
About 8 miles of each 25 mile loop was paved, the rest of it was
dirt, gravel, both, and in some really nice spots a covering of pine
needles. Course was pretty well shaded except for a few spots here and
there. The aid stations and the volunteers were awesome!!
I'm still kind of in disbelief that I completed this - and except
for the few aches and pains and the few low points, came through it ok.
And as an added bonus, I'm happy with the time.
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