Our club puts on a race every year and most of our runners run it. I decided to run it but I wasn't looking for a PR or a fast time. In fact I had already put plenty of mileage in this week (my highest week ever!) and my legs were a little tired for this one. The course was hilly too and unlike last weekend's race, not designed for a PR. I was looking for a solid effort and that's what I gave.
I noticed an Ethiopian warming up but when I started the race he wasn't there. Another guy gunned it and was a good 30-40 meters ahead through 1.5 miles. I opened with a 5:13. The Ethiopian quickly came by me and eased up with the other guy. Just past the two mile (10:22) I caught both of the guys but the Ethiopian gunned it again to stay ahead. I caught him once more but he just threw in another surge. The guy wasn't even breathing and it was like he was out for a Sunday morning stroll looking for a win and an easy gift-card. Found out it was this guy after talking to him after the race. He said he is just starting to run again.
I put in a great effort and ran the race correctly (5:13, 5:11, 5:08, xx). Won a $75 gift card to Dicks Sporting goods and a $25 gift card to a local restaurant--not a bad day at all. This is my last race until 9/14 and the half marathon. Long and happy training weeks ahead!
Results
PM: 5 miles easy
| 