Denouement

Saint George Marathon

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Location:

Kowloon Tong,Hong Kong

Member Since:

Jul 02, 2007

Gender:

Female

Goal Type:

Olympic Trials Qualifier

Running Accomplishments:

Unaided:

5K - 17:11 (track Pre-kids and at BYU) (1998)

10K - 35:48 (track Pre-kids and at BYU) (1998)

10K - 35:34 (road - Shek Mun 10k 12/12)

1/2 Marathon 1:19:44 (UNICEF HM 11/12)

Marathon 2:47:08 (ING Hartford Connecticut 10/10)

Aided:

St. George Marathon 2:50:40 (10/08)

1/2 marathon - Hobble Creek 1:17:14 (8/08)

10K - Deseret News 10K - 35:02 (7/08)

Short-Term Running Goals:

PR 1/2 marathon AGAIN


Long-Term Running Goals:

Break 2:46 in Boston!

Personal:

I used to run for BYU, but only after trying out three times and finally walking on, so I was never a star. However, it was wonderful to run with great people and under Coach Shane. When you run with fast people, you can't help to improve! I graduated BYU in 1998, and didn't run a race until 2002, after having my second child. My hiatus and other crazy life commitments have made my competitive running suffer, but the last couple of years I have tried to get back into it the best I can. I have been married since 1996, to Paul Lowry, who is a runner himself. I have three boys (my three rascals), ages 12, 10, and 8.

After a great 2008 season, I was injured and eventually diagnosed and cross-diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis, a type of arthritis disease, which precludes running for all but the most stubborn.  So I am on medications, trying to stay healthy, and seeing my PT often.  And running!  Now beating the streets in Hong Kong.

Click to donate
to Ukraine's Armed Forces
Miles:This week: 0.00 Month: 0.00 Year: 0.00
NB RC900 Black/yellow Lifetime Miles: 183.31
NB RC1300 Red/Black Lifetime Miles: 195.31
2012 MTR Lifetime Miles: 4035.70
890 Blue Lifetime Miles: 310.55
NB RC 1600 Lifetime Miles: 96.76
RC 1400 Lifetime Miles: 90.60
NB 890 Baby Blue Lifetime Miles: 233.26
NB 890 Electric Blue Lifetime Miles: 319.67
NB 890 Tokyo Turquoise Lifetime Miles: 163.54
Race: Saint George Marathon (26.2 Miles) 02:50:40, Place overall: 2, Place in age division: 1
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTrainer 1 MilesTrainer 2 MilesRacer MilesTotal Distance
0.5026.200.000.000.000.000.0026.70

Succint version:

In second place til 19th mile, then took the lead, then was passed at about 25.5 miles to get second place.

Starting detailed version:

My hotel gave me a 2:15 wake up call on accident!!!! And I couldn't fall back asleep until 4am, then I woke up at 4:15.  Nice :(

I took the 4:40 shuttle, made it just in time to ride up the bus with the SF running group.  It rained all the way up the course.  Bad sign.  The flags at the start indicated a stiff headwind (flags straight back) another bad sign.  I warmed up .5 miles, then stretched, went potty twice but knew I was in trouble because it was a zero start morning when I toed the line.  Adam RW and Craig Green were with me for our 2:45 pace group.  By the time the race starts, the flags are still showing a bad headwind, but the flags aren't as stiffly back.  For some reason, I don't decide to adjust my target splits (2:44 pace target), because in reality I was going to try to go lower than 2:44.  This was a bad strategy.

I don't have all my splits because Adam's watch was more reliable than mine so I relied on him.

First mile 6:16 (target was 6:34) too fast! I wore a trash bag to start because it was still a steady cold rain, but I took it off after about .5 miles because the wind was too stiff and I felt like a sailboat getting pushed the wrong way.

2nd mile: 6:21 (too slow, target was 6:16), my socks are already wet through

3rd mile: 6:08 I don't get my elite bottle but just grab a cup of water/gatorade to take a swig.

4th mile: 6:05

5th mile: took a gu, plan was to alternate gus every four miles and elite bottles every four miles, so drink lots of water every four miles, and take a gu every four miles with just a swig or two of water from cups.

6th mile: 5:55 I think I need to go potty dang!

7th mile:  I go potty right before the start of Veyo, I notice my clothing is already way soaked through. (Adam waits for me faithfully outside the portapotty)

8th mile: Veyo, and I push it too hard, trying to catch the pack we had

9th mile-11th:  Start to feel bad, can't turn over legs to get the right pace for miles

12-13th mile - have a cramp, focus on breathing

14th mile - start to feel a little better, but I feel just like last year, my legs are already really sore.  This isn't supposed to happen because I am better trained this year!

15th -17th miles - start of steeper downhill, kick it into higher gear and just begin to rein in Kara Bankhead who is in front of me.  Her and I both take a portapotty break at mile 16, so I don't loose much ground on that one.

18 - reining Kara in

19 - uphill part, I pass Kara, she doesn't put up a fight

20 - now I am in the lead, Adam is rearing to leave me but I feel so dead legged I am hoping he'll stay with me, I need to go to the bathroom again!!!!

21 - I have a motorcycle leading me in, Adam leaves me at about 21

22 - at 21.5 I squat behind a guard rail, hoping I didn't give anyone behind me a show.

23 - 24 at this point I think I am keeping pace and so grateful to be leading, but legs are tired

25 - my legs are like bricks and I am slowing.  Trying to keep a fast turnover, but fading

26 - at about 25.4, I hear a guy cheering for a girl as I turn onto Main street, look back and see a new girl who looks oh so strong.  I say crap under my breath and I just let her pass me.  Should I have put up a fight?  She was going about 2 min per mile faster than me, and it was not an aerobic issue, it was a lactic acid build up, where my legs were not cooperating with my inward drive.  Still, I didn't surge much when I saw her.  She looked so strong and I felt so weak.  After I turned the corner onto the last straightaway, I find some juice for a somewhat pathetic kick, but it was a kick nevertheless.  It looked like a 2:50:40 finish, and the official time was 2:50:40.

Ok, so an assessment.  Overall, I am pleased with my time and my effort for the race.  The conditions were awful (rain and headwind the whole time, heavy clothes, heavy shoes, blue lips), Everyone's times were slower, so I guess I can't be an exception.  I didn't race for splits after mile 8, but just raced it.  Racing for place was a nice change, but the conditions that made this necessary were unpleasant.

So here's where I think I went wrong:  I met or exceeded my splits for the first 8 miles despite the weather and the potty break.  I should have started out 10 seconds per mile slower at the start, and not pushed Veyo so much.  I went out too fast 1-8, felt horrible 9-13, kicked it in gear from 14-23, then pettered out gradually from 24-26.  The race was mine to lose and I lost it.  So though overall the race went well, I made a strategic mistake at the beginning, and I wish I could have put up a better fight when my competitor came up on me.  I need to learn how to not die the last two miles.  I didn't die this bad at Ogden, so it may be the downhill miles of St G trash the legs so bad, there's no avoiding it.  Still, I feel like I have more to learn. . .

I think this might be it for me and St. G.  I feel like the course beat me instead of me beating it.  So in a way I want to come back to redeem myself, but it is tangential to my goals.  It will not be an OTQ race, and I need to train for the OTQ races and not get distracted by this race, even though it is the biggest marathon around. 

I had an ice cream cone after, got blue lips from being frozen, had a massage, then got a way sick feeling, and went to my hotel for a shower before the awards.  Came back for the awards.  Had a hamburger, fries and Dr. Pepper with Tyler and Kellie S for lunch, shared a bacon cheeseburger, fries and a big piece of chocolate cake from Outback for dinner, had more of that cake for breakfast Sunday morning, then had a big Coke for the drive home.  Got the bad eating out of my system for sure.


 

Night Sleep Time: 3.75Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 3.75Weight: 0.00
Comments
From marion on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 20:26:16

HOLY CRAP my friend!!! You are stinking AMAZING!!!! Way to go!! Dang it! You lived! You ROCKED!!! I am honored to know you!!!

From marion on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 20:27:45

oh yeah- congratulations!!! :D WOO Hooo!!!!!

From The Howling Commando on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 20:31:28

You are an inspiration to me! I can't believe it. 2:50!!!! YOU ROCK SGM!

From Teena on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 20:35:18

Michelle -- You are seriously so amazing. It was great to see you after the race, but I felt horrible that you were disappointed and I had no idea what to say. You are an incredibly tough woman.

But ... it's my understanding that you still won some great prizes!! AWESOME!! Thank you so much for being such an inspiration for so many of us.

(btw ... perhaps a lawsuit is in order in regards to the false wake-up call!! Of course I'm kidding ... but DANG!!)

JOB WELL DONE!!!

From Lucia on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 21:06:53

What a day, and what a race Michelle! Congratulations!!!

From Paul Petersen on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 21:16:38

Enjoy your Green Valley spa trip. Stacy and I LOVED it last year.

From Craig on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 21:51:42

Michelle-

Great job today. Man, I was sure you were going to take it when you pulled ahead of me at mile 25. The elements weren't on our side for a 2:45 today, but it hurt everyone else too. You ran your heart out and took 2nd at SGM. Amazing. I wanted to shout out when the 1st place girl passed by me right after you, but you were too far ahead to hear and I didn't have the energy to catch up. Adam was so funny- he was yelling at all the crowds - "The first place girl is coming! Her name is Michelle!" so they would cheer.

From RivertonPaul on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 22:02:07

Congratulations. Very impressive.

From Kelsey on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 22:21:10

Wow, amazing run. Congrats!

(And I think another girl competitor tried to sabotage you with the wake up call :) )

From walter on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 22:32:26

Michelle, of all the hotels in ST. George, I picked the one with you! lol I was so distraught when I found how you just missed a great ending to a well fought out race! You are awesome! Keep your head up! That is a great accomplishment! Way to go!

From Clay on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 23:27:15

Wow that is a great time Michelle with the conditions, you are a true elite runner...

Congrats!!!

From KimR on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 23:31:21

congradulations! What a race! You are truly an inspiration! I am so proud of you! Can't wait to hear every gory detail next time you come to pace Marion & I! You rock!

From Merri on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 23:42:09

WAY TO GO! You are amazing! That's awesome!

From jona on Sat, Oct 04, 2008 at 23:53:31

Congratulations! I'm anxious to hear the rest of the story. I'm sooooooo amazed you can go potty not once, but at least twice and STILL were right there at the finish. You are amazing!

From MarcieJ on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 00:58:51

Thanks for staying on thurs night, it was so fun to hang with you on friday and sat. You did so well and for not feeling great too. You and I need to get these stomach issues worked out so we dont have to give up precious seconds dealing with sour stomachs!

From dave holt on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 01:41:59

Way to still go after it Michelle.

You ran great!

From Paul T on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 01:53:33

I can't say I understand your disappointment at taking 2nd, but that's because I've never come that close to winning a pretty major marathon...or a minor marathon, or a half marathon, or a 10K. You get the point. You ran an incredible race under very tough conditions. You are one of the toughest runners I've every known. You train like a maniac, and always leave it all on the road during races. You should feel very good about your efforts, your performance, and yourself.

From JohnK on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 08:36:06

Michelle, I am extremely impressed with your 2:50 given the tough conditions. I'm no expert but I believe a sub-2:45 would have been yours on a typical St. George day and that long-term you have a low 2:40 and very possibly 2:35ish marathon in you somewhere like Duluth or Chicago (when you've got a few more under your belt and are racing a bunch of strong women). It's been inspiring to follow your training for this. I look forward to more race details and post-race comments, and then seeing what you do next! Congrats, you should be proud of this!

From Christi on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 09:32:52

Holy Moly- You are FAAAAAAST! Wonderful, terrific, amazing. Congrats on your 2nd in a major marathon!!!

From allie on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 09:48:00

this is truly an amazing time. WOW! i am so happy for you. and i can't wait to hear the details on the rest of your race. OTQ for you is DEFINITE. you are so strong to get a time like that in such crazy weather. truly an inspiration. once again, WOW.

CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!

From Craig on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 10:17:28

Michelle- one other thing I was recalling this morning when typing out my race report. I saw this guy hanging out at mile 22 in running clothes without a number, and I figured he would be pacing a friend in. I didn't think too much of it, and sure enough he passed me by while pacing the first place girl (I don't know her name). So she was paced by a bandit the last 4 miles. What's up with that? I don't want to jump on a sore loser band wagon, but weren't we talking about this subject on the discussion board, and most everyone on the blog agreed that a bandit shouldn't pace a winner in the race. I mean, if they are coming down on headphones as in aided device, what is the deal with bandits pacing the winning runner(s)?

From tarzan on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 11:35:45

Michelle - that was an amazing finish for a horrible day to race. Congratulations on your 2nd place!

From Dale on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 17:12:42

10 minute PR in those conditions? Wow! Great race! Congrats on the #2 spot. Well earned!

From marion on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 19:03:43

Michelle- you know you are my hero, right? :D

From kellies on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 19:09:48

Michelle, Tyler and I were just talking about all of your amazing accomplishments this year. You really are an inspiration to all of us. You are a hard worker and fighter and above all else, so sweet and down to earth. We thoroughly enjoyed lunch yesterday and the visiting that went along with it. You are a great person Michelle and we wish you all of the best with your future running career!! The sky is the limit :)

From josse on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 19:31:32

Great job Michelle, You already know that you are a great inspiration to me and thank for sharing your hamburger with me. Thats right it was me that she shared the hambuger with plus I had cheesecake and it was soooo good.

On to bigger and better things:)

From Paul Petersen on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 19:37:07

Craig - that's EXACTLY the kind of thing I was talking about in terms of bad pacing ethics. I was actually thinking about it when I saw the results yesterday: man, if I had gone down and paced Michelle, taken the full wind for her, and gotten her water for her, she would have won easily. But it's not the right thing to do. It's disappointing to hear about the winner doing just that. With the wind how it was yesterday, a pacer surely made a difference, even for only 4 miles.

From marion on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 19:37:18

Josse and Michelle- you hamberger eating hussies! ;) Cheesecake too- naughty girls!!

From Superfly on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 19:41:20

I love your diet the last day and a half. I've been along those same lines. A 2:50 was really amazing yesterday. I'm not going to even try to say what it would have been on good conditions but it would have been a smoker. Plus all the potty stops. I think you'll totally qualify in the coming years. Don't feel too bad about not wining. You didn't really want to go to Japan anyways (everyone smokes over there) so you'd have a hard time breathing. Keep your chin up. It was a blast hanging with you guys a few times over the weekend. Next time leave the rain in the Payson area. This is the desert and the cacti in my yard really doesn't need that much water.

Once again good job!

From Jody on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 20:10:58

You did a fantastic job! It was a tough day but you ran a tough race!

From Jon on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 21:25:47

Michelle, I'm not sure which is more amazing- your race, or all the yummy food you ate afterwards. Seriously, though, very impressive race- it's too bad the win slipped away, but you still ran a great race. Thanks for the inspiration for the rest of us.

From Andy on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 21:53:24

I am so glad to read what you ate. No I don't feel as bad for doing what I have done the past 2 days. This has been the year of Michelle and I have enjoyed following your elevation to one of the top runners in the state.

From MarcieJ on Sun, Oct 05, 2008 at 22:40:13

Well I went to DQ when I finally started to feel better got me my big reese's blizzard and made myself sick, lets just say not eating crap and then overeating does not sit too well. I am done with ice cream for awhile again! But it sure tasted good going down:)

From mattk on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 00:54:37

Awe-some! What a year! It's been fun getting to know you the little bit through some workouts. I just need some Michelle focus and Drive for 2008! Love that you outed yourself on the food. Don't feel bad, I had all of that in the morning. . .pre-race!

From Dustin on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 12:28:09

Great job on Saturday. I really wish I would have started out with you guys. I was very disappointed with my race, but I'm positive I'll bounce back.

You really ran great and you've had a great year of being very dedicated to your training. I hope you can enjoy a few weeks of recovery and enjoy and few burgers and cold drinks for me.

From jtshad on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 13:21:47

An amazing race for you Michelle, way to go. Strong running in crappy conditions and you still pull of a race like this and beat the time from last year by so much! I echo everyonen else and can just say WOW!

From anon on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:15:51

Well done. However, be careful how you talk about other runners. I've noticed throughout your blog that as you start racing better, you start to take on a bit of a "lofty" air when talking about other runners in your races. Don't get so caught up with a win that you push everyone else and their efforts down. Making them look bad creates negative feelings and doesn't make you look better.

From Andy on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:23:56

anon - I'm curious what statements you consider Michelle was putting other runners down? I re-read the report and didn't notice any.

From josse on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:26:08

I can only guess who that annomous coment is by!!

From Lucia on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:26:11

Michelle, I disagree with the previous comment - you always seem very positive and respectful to other runners/bloggers, and also provide great support and encouragement! And not that you do, but you have earned the rights to brag about yourself a little! You rock!

From Jon on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:27:14

Anon- not sure I see any "lofty" air in the race report above. No negative words about any runners or their efforts. Everyone has their own goals and own results and should judge themselves only by those. The first finisher and the last finisher can both be equally happy with their individual results, or can both be equally unhappy. Michelle put in many, many, many hours of training and is very talented, so high expectations are simply meeting her potential and using her talents. I don't see how that puts other people down.

From Jon on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:28:52

By the way, Michelle, I saw this quote and thought it appropriate for you and Holt:

"The marathon is like a bullfight. There are two ways to kill a bull, for instance. There is the easy way, for one. But all the great matadors end up either dead or mauled because for them killing the bull is not nearly as important as how they kill the bull. They always approach the bull at the greatest risk to themselves, and I admire that. In the marathon, likewise, there are two ways to win. There's the easy way if all you care about is winning. You hang back and risk nothing. Then kick and try to nip the leaders at the end. Or you can push, challenge the others, make it an exciting race, risking everything. Maybe you lose, but as for me, I'd rather run a gutsy race, pushing all the way and lose, then run a conservative, easy race only for a win."

- Alberto Salazar, 1981

From Sasha Pachev on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:41:36

anon - please identify yourself, otherwise I will delete your comment, and ban your IP as well so you will have to go to another computer to see the blog at all. If you have something to say to somebody, have the courage to state your name.

From Craig on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:41:55

I don't see anything in this report or any of these blog entries that can be taken as arrogant. If anon's comments were directed towards my comment about the winner being paced by a bandit from mile 22, then so be it. Like I said, I don't mean to spread negativity, but the only downer of the day was for me to watch the winner catch up to Michelle at mile 25.5 with a bandit at her side.

From Andy on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:47:52

If Michelle is arrogant (which I don't think she is) she has every right to be. It's the comment that she was putting down other runners that bothered me. If there really is something there that is offensive I hope that anonymous will specify what it is. The only comment that could even be construed that way was that Kara didn't put up a fight when Michelle passed her at mile 19. That's certainly not putting her down.

From Paul Petersen on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:49:04

Ditto with Craig. Michelle has always been humble and grateful for her gifts. If you have an issue with what I wrote, take it up with me. I'm easy to find, because I use my real name.

From MichelleL on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 14:57:15

If I have put someone down, I would sure like to know who it is so I can apologize. We all fight hard in our races (I sure didn't put up a fight when I was passed at the end, but I fought hard just to finish). Perhaps some more information about my offenses will help me to mend hurt feelings. I do apologize.

Blogs are funny, I pour out my heart, my successes and my failures, I know some watch my blog who aren't my friends, yet I continue to blog for my own sanity and for the dozens of people who are my friends and who are on the same path as me - trying to figure out how to beat the marathon instead of it beating us. I have been insulted for saying I have cried at the end of a workout. I would rather people not read my blog if it irritates them. I don't mean to irritate anyone, but this is my little space. If I do offend someone because of lack of sensitivity, I don't mind being called out on it.

Thanks all for your support.

From marion on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 15:05:34

Last I checked, this was MICHELLEL.fastrunningblog.com. Not "blowsunshineupmichellescompetitors....fastrunningblog.com This blog is for Michelle to blog her experiences with training and racing. She allows us to view her logs as a courtesy. There is nothing arrogant or lofty about Michelle or her entrys. Anyone who blogs or sends emails, knows that the written word can be taken or mistaken very easily. Oh well :)

Hey, Michelle, maybe you should carry roses in your races to give to everyone you pass to honor them and not show any disrespect ;D

From tarzan on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 15:08:47

Michelle - I consider all of your blogs as great information and feel you are a very classy runner. Keep up the good work. I can only hope to get even a portion as good and dedicated as you are in my lifetime.

From kellies on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 15:13:23

All the more confirmation of what an amazing person you are Michelle. Great response!! I think that you are going to be watched and interrogated despite what you say or do. There are some who just can not find good in anything and that must definitely be the case here. You are one of the most outstanding, positive, genuine, sweet, and understanding persons I have ever come to know and that opinion has been formed in just the short amount of time that I have known you. Do not let this get to you that is what "anon" wants. Hold your head high!!

From Jon on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 15:24:15

No worries, Michelle- don't let it bug you. Marion- that is hilarious! Blowsunshine...

From Clay on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 15:26:05

Michelle is the most humble runner I have ever come across!!! She is always willing to help me when I have a question and not only that when I'm running down the road and she sees me she will always stop and say Hi or even better run with me, those are not the actions of an arrogant runner... You are awesome Michelle and you have nothing to apologize for!!!

Annon's needs to stay off this blog, Period!!!

From Dale on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 15:52:26

Anon - Its easy to lob comments when you're anonymous....have the moral courage to name yourself if you really feel that way. I sincerely doubt that'll happen because the comment was way off base and factually untrue. I've never seen hint of a "lofty air" in Michelle's blog and know the only "air" is the stench from the rotten comment you lobbed unfairly. Grow up.

Michelle - Everyone's entitled to their opinion, but those that are given only in secrecy are worth....nothing. Don't give it another thought....your "air" is not lofty! Uh, wait...that sounds bad too....I mean that in a good way! :)

From MarcieJ on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 16:02:18

Michelle you are very humble. "Anon" must be EXTREMELY jealous of you and your accomplishments! Trying to knock you down to lift themself up. You are so humble but confident. You have to have confidence to race the way you do. But there is nothing "lofty" or "arrogant" about any of your race reports or blog entries. You have nothing to apologize for to anyone. Anyone that knows you knows that! You are amazing michelle. And "anon" is a coward for not posting their name! And I agree with Josse, I can only take a guess at who posted it!

From Superfly on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 16:32:38

I'm guessing that "Anon" is someone that Michelle dropped with ease during a race. People sure do like to take hidden pokes at people on blogs.

Shake it off Michelle. In any respect you deserve to be a little cocky.

From aroundthebend on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 18:08:22

Congratulations Michelle! You ran an excellent race under difficult race conditions!

From Paul T on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 18:28:54

I'd like to share a conversation I had with Michelle in the runner's area after the race. I hope she doesn't mind. I finished more than 20 minutes after her, so this was probably 25-30 minutes after the race. She was obviously cold, her lips looked blue, and she approached me and asked me how I did. She's always friendly. I told her, then asked how she did. She said she took 2nd and briefly shared her experience of being passed in the last mile. She was obviously very disappointed. She commented on how she had given her all but the other woman was just stronger than her and wondered how she could train to get stronger at the end of a marathon. She said something like, "What am I supposed to do, 26 mile training runs?" (It sounded like she had considered that.) She asked me what she could do? I said something like, "You finished 2nd and I finished like 423rd or something and you're asking me for advice?" Arrogant runners don't ask people like me for advice. I just tried to tell her how awesome of a runner I think she is and that she ought to feel great about her incredible performance. Not once did she criticize anyone else, or even hint at it. She was complimentary of her competition and entirely focused on what she could do to get better.

By the way, when I saw Craig's comments about the bandit pacer I perused the 2008 USATF rules. Article 4 includes the following:

(http://www.usatf.org/about/rules/2008/2008USATFRules_Article4.pdf)

"The following shall be considered assistance and therefore not allowed:

(e) Pacing in running or walking events by persons not participating in the event, by competitors lapped or about to be lapped, or by any kind of technical device."

In my simple logical mind I thought 1) pacing by a bandit is clearly a rules violation, 2) it clearly occurred, 3) it almost certainly affected the outcome of the race, 4) if so, Michelle was robbed of a hard earned victory, and 5) the race officials can't do anything about it if they don't know about it. I figured Michelle is too nice to ever say anything to about it to the officials, so I decided to email them to at least make them aware. They replied and asked me who actually saw this take place. I replied with the link to this blog entry and pointed them to Craig's comments. They replied and thanked me for the info. What's next? I have no idea. I'm guessing they might contact Craig (sorry, Craig).

Doing something like this is way out of character for me. I'm much more prone to sit back and stay quiet and not rock the boat. This just didn't seem right to me, so I spoke up.

I'm confessing to having reported this to the race organizers to make it clear that Michelle had nothing to do with it, and was not even aware of it until now. She would have told me not to say anything. I accept full responsibility.

Now I remember why I normally stay quiet. I'm a little nervous. I believe in the maxim: "If it doesn't stink, don't stir it." I guess in this case I felt like the situation already stunk, so I stirred. Please forgive me if it was the wrong decision.

From Clay on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 18:47:17

Bravo Paul T, I think that stinks the winner was in full violation of the rule, at least from where I'm standing... Thanks for doing that Paul and giving us the information, you are a good friend to Michelle... You both Rock!!!

From Craig on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 18:52:31

Paul- I don't mind. Carlene from St George City asked me for details on what I saw, and I've typed it out for them. It is the same as I related on this blog. Yes, I was tired at the time, but I remember being angry at mile 22 thinking that some guy without a bib might pass me up on fresh legs before the finish, and then being angry when it did happen. Obviously Carrie ran the whole thing, so I don't want to take away from her effort. I was mostly angry at the guy in the white shirt that was talking away as he passed by me like the marathon was a stroll in the park, while I was in pain. I tend to get fired up when I run. lol

I know that runners on this blog are extra careful to keep the highest standards, and I respect that. It adds legitimacy to the running community and makes me proud to be part of a sport that keeps its bar raised high.

From Sasha Pachev on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 18:55:54

Paul, and everybody - in this case, although the rules say you cannot be paced by a non-participant, I think it would do us good to let it go. St. George is not exactly an elite race. It does not even offer cash prizes. Christina, the girl that passed Michelle had a breakthrough race. It is very likely that at the time her pacer offered her assistance neither one of them was thinking of USATF rules if they were even aware of them at all. Elite athletes were not specifically instructed concerning this rule prior to the race. Besides, Michelle got plenty of legal assistance from Adam while Christina may or may not have had a designated pacer for the first 22 miles. So, while the letter of the law is on Michelle's side, we should not push it any more than we would complain that the guy who beat you in the age division and pushed you from 7th to 8th cut the turn outside of the coned path or was wearing earphones (both technically against the rules).

If Christina gets disqualified because of our complaint, this will result in some ill will in the community and not without a reason.

From Paul Petersen on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 19:09:17

Despite my earlier comments, I agree with Sasha that the fallout of getting someone DQ'ed would be bad. I don't think it's a place anyone wants to go.

From Sasha Pachev on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 19:12:59

I also think the rules about assistance are an overkill, and just not right. A man participating in the race cannot be a gentleman and grab water for a woman, this is called illegal assistance. Your wife cannot stand on the side of the road and hand you water, this is also illegal assistance. Those rules are a result of some especially vocal and competitive individuals being unable to deal with the reality of losing a race. I will never report anybody who beats me for breaking a technical rule of this kind, and if somebody else does, I will insist that his result remain valid.

From Kelli on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 19:24:16

Everyone has said enough, so i won't add a ton. But you did great. The fact that you can analyze it all, take it in, figure out the mistakes, and so on is just truly amazing! I saw you all cleaned up and in your jeans from a distance while I was still shivering and waiting for my husband to finish with his massage. I was JEALOUS!!! If I had not been so cold I would have come and said hi, but I did not want to move from the tent!

Now, I am utterly 100% jealous of the food you got to eat. THAT to me, sadly, is the best part about finishing and I had to miss it. So thanks for eating all of the good stuff for me!! It sounds so good....

From Craig on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 19:31:53

Sasha/Paul- point taken. I tried to make that point in my email to St George, but just to follow up, I sent the following:

"I don’t know if I made it clear in my earlier email, but I think it would be best to let this issue go. It’s not worth the fallout that could arise from a runner getting an award stripped or getting disqualified. What I saw was an emotional downer, but I would suggest we let it be a point worth mentioning in the future for those that are in contention for awards and recognition. The winner clearly won the race, and we shouldn’t do anything to sour it or take it away from her."

I was angry at the bandit, but I guess that shouldn't poison the accomplishment of the winner.

From Andy on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 19:32:04

I am with Sasha on this one and hope that nothing comes from the complaint made. Unfortunately, too much is being made of things that do not matter when we should be celebrating Michelle's phenomenal performance and break out year. Congratulations again Michelle. We are all very proud of you and excited to see you unleash your running potential.

From Paul T on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 19:35:49

I apologize. It was clearly not my place to bring this to the attention of the race officials. I too have sent a follow-up email asking that no action be taken. I promised them I would keep my mouth shut in the future, and I will. Again, my apologies.

From MichelleL on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 19:51:43

Adam grabbed my water for me once or twice (I was totally unaware that could DQ me). The volunteers handed me my water bottles a couple of other times, is that against the rules? For that matter, I could probably get DQed for going potty outside of a portapotty for my third potty break. I think she was stronger and that's why she won. A pacer wouldn't have made her feel strong the way she looked. I appreciate Paul's passion and willingness to stick out his neck for me, but I hope the matter ends with no actions. Should I email St G to tell them as much?

From Paul T on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 19:55:51

I'll send you a private message with the email address.

From Craig on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 19:59:56

That reminds me of Walter's experience at Boston this year when some cop got on his case for peeing behind the porta potty and tried to take his number. lol

From jona on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 20:18:09

Ahhhhh. Calmer heads are prevailing.

I am amazed at how good of race you ran, and the year you have had. Great race, keep striving to be better.

Congratulations!!!!!

From ali on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 20:50:34

Great job Michelle.

(anon)I think you should get to know others before casting stones.

And by the way this 2nd place will give you more motivation for next year. Thank you being such a great support to my wife Alison she loves running with you and appreciates your time. I really hope when your legs stop throbbing that you can enjoy all of your achievements this year. What a great year.

Desi L.

P.S. In your honor of you Michelle I'm going to jog to my mailbox sometime next month (if weather permits)

From Paul Petersen on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 21:23:22

Ha ha. Perhaps I should contact the Top of Utah people and get Sasha retroactively DQ'ed for taking a VPB stop right in front of me back in '04. I believe it was on private property as well. Okay, well I've lightened up.

Congrats again Michelle. You don't need this kind of stress after a race, but you've served to show others how to handle adversity with grace.

From Lucia on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 21:28:20

Yeah, at least this thread gave us a breather from that alcohol licensing conversation in Sasha's blog... Come on people, 30 more comments and we'll get Michelle on top of the hot discussion list! Who has yet to congratulate haer on this amazing accomplishment? :)

From marion on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 21:59:02

Ok Lucia- the Top 30 about Michelle!

#30 she will run with super lame runners to help them get better 5k times :) She even will drag her friends to pace the lame runners friends!

From Lucia on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 22:04:11

#29, she gives injured runners advice on how to jog in the swimming pool!

From Mik'L on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 23:09:43

Michelle- Great job. I am one who has yet to congratulate you and you definitely deserve it! I thought you looked good coming in. It was fun to get to know you over lunch and I think your hard work and performance give you the right to be "lofty" even though you definitely are not!

From cody on Mon, Oct 06, 2008 at 23:54:02

I have yet to congratulate you too! Uh, congrats. You are a super chick!

From Mike Warren on Tue, Oct 07, 2008 at 00:09:53

Michelle, a little late but once again congrats. Bottom line, thats how our society is. If you work hard and you have worked VERY hard. Others want to tear you down. Personally, I love the fact you are such a good runner. I have looked back at the progress you have made. It just shows how hard work and dedication rule the day. Hey, what an idea. You get out of life what you put in. Hum, I guess some people find in more constructive to waste time and energy complaining, than working. Great race! I expect nothing but the best from you. No thats not cocky, just truthful!

From Lybi on Tue, Oct 07, 2008 at 01:01:21

You don't give yourself enough credit. It's like this race was at least 30 miles long with the way the wind was pushing you back and the rain was dragging you down. You ran an AMAZING race, girl. I was super proud to scream my head off for you when you went by. And I almost kicked a guy on your behalf... He was cheering for that lady right behind you and telling her to go after you. How dare he! You are the best!

From Lybi on Tue, Oct 07, 2008 at 01:16:30

Whoa buddy! I just now read all the comments and now I feel abashed that I wrote that I considered kicking a guy (not really!). Maybe I should email the race director.

Michelle, I just love how you encourage and support everyone on the blog. I'll never forget that you went back and ran with me in my first ever half marathon. You are such a great runner AND a great person.

From Sasha Pachev on Tue, Oct 07, 2008 at 13:40:42

To discourage anon posts in the future and other lower level activity I will make as much info as I have available on this anon individual. I figure this would be even better than banning the IP address.

The post IP address was 63.226.110.40. This appears to be the proxy server for APX Alarm company in Provo (http://www.apxalarm.com). I see a visit from the same IP address two hours later, but no comment left. The "anon" looked at the race reports and at the list of the top runners (which needed to be updated now).

I also checked for recent activity from the 63.226.110.0/24 subnet. There was a visit from another IP, but since I am not 100% sure this was the same individual as anon I will not make his activity public.

So Anon, you are not as Anon as you think.

From Aaron on Tue, Oct 07, 2008 at 14:34:07

Michelle: Sweet running, in very arduous conditions. Way to go! Very impressive. Moreover, the anon thing was totally funny. When you have a personal heckler, you know you've arrived.

From Ali on Tue, Oct 07, 2008 at 15:15:16

Hey Michelle Its great to see how successful you have been this whole year. YOu are very driven and have some kind of passion for running that I will never have. THis race will only keep the fire going until next time and keep some motivation there to come back better and stronger. You did PR from last year by 10 min so what is there to complain about. Hurry and get all the fatigue out so I can have some people to run with. All this time off from these SG marathoners is killing me :)Good Job Girl!

From Brent on Tue, Oct 07, 2008 at 20:53:03

The Lion Queen Roars again, 5,000 commando points for the OT time, if it were an OT year. Also, I have read all the comments about the "annon". You would not be a great runner if you did not have the spirit of the lion queen. A winner is never happy with second, but, accepts second as a challenge to take 1st in the next race. We have found the Lion Queen to have the grace of a queen and the heart of a lion.

Stay Kool, No Fear, B of BS Rools out

From stephanie on Thu, Oct 09, 2008 at 17:28:23

Congratulations Michelle! I was so excited when I saw on the news that you got second!!

I confess that since Provo/Hobblecreek that I have been reading your blog.

You are an inspiration! Thanks for all the tips.

Stephanie

From walter on Thu, Oct 09, 2008 at 23:16:47

Michelle! I hope you can see what a great following of friends you have here! Dont ever forget it and it will make you stronger! Once again, way to go!

From Doug on Mon, Oct 13, 2008 at 11:38:50

Everyone always want to be first to congratulate you, so let me be the last. Congratulations – 2:50 is an excellent time, especially under those conditions.

I had a great run on Saturday – thanks for pulling me along.

From Megan on Wed, Oct 22, 2008 at 13:34:56

Hi michelle... I know I'm late on the congrats for your marathon. But WOW! your marathon finish time is incredible! I was browsing your blog for post-marathon recovery ideas.

Anyways... you are amazing!

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