This was my fifth year running in this race, and it was as fun as ever. I enjoy the community involvement and the small town feel. Having breakfast provided at the finish is a nice bonus too!
I never expect to pr on this course, but each year I try to set a new one for the course. So far I have been successful in that, even though by only a few seconds. In '08, '09, & '10, I finished in the 1:29:49-1:29:14. I guess I could be called consistent. It was nice dropping below 1:29, even though by a slim margin.
I didn't keep track of my splits mile-for-mile, but instead, just tried to hold on for what my body would do for the day. I took off with the lead runners from the start, and watched the eventual winner, Ben Van Beekum pull away from view. By mile 2, I managed to pass a few runners and pulled into the 3rd. place position. I hit mile 3 around 19:00, and felt happy with a 6:20 for those miles. Unfortunately; I started getting some side stitches by mile 4 and I know my pace suffered slightly. It was at this time I was passed by another runner. I held on for all I could for the next few miles as the course had some ups and downs and a few turns. Around mile 9, the biggest hill in the course came upon us, and I slowed way down to avoid going too anaerobic. This is when I was passed yet again by another runner. Oh well...
In the final 4 miles, I tried to keep a steady pace and kept runners number 3 & 4 in my sights. I didn't have the kick to overtake them, but felt fortunate that they were the only ones I had lost my position to. All details considered, it was a great day and a positive racing experience.
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