I got up at 3:45am, picked up Lyle at 4:50am, caught a bus at Riverwoods at about 5:15am, then waited around for the start until a little after 7:00am. The weather was cool for August, and it was a little chilly waiting for the start, but it made for great temperatures during the run. The slight chance of rain didn't materialize, although the sprinklers along the trail near the end managed to get me pretty good as I was focused and working to pass a strong runner in front of me who looked to be close to my age. I managed to pass him and hold off his kick at the end. I felt pretty good going into the race, but I didn't feel like my training was quite up to where it was last year. I was pleased to end up running the same time as last year, though the couse was different last year due to the fire. I think I ran the race better this year. I didn't push quite as hard during the early downhill miles and managed to hold a pretty even pace clear through the finish.
Miles 1-4: 6:46, 6:26, 6:43, 6:30
Down South Fork Canyon - Took it easy on the brief uphill sections and released the brakes a little on the steeper downhill sections. Miles 5-6: 7:00, 6:48 Vivian to Bridal Veil - A little flatter. Miles 7-8: 7:29, 7:19 Included the uphill loop from Bridal Veil and back. Miles 9-13.1: 6:52, 6:54, 6:49, 6:55, 6:42, (5:13/mi for final kick) Last year I ran the first mile in 6:07 and the last two miles in 7:28 and 7:21, and felt beaten at the end. This year I never bonked and held a strong, steady pace through the finish, including a strong kick. Not long after the race I felt ready for more. Maybe I'm in better shape than I think I am. That would be nice. Last year my 1:29 time got 4th in my division. This year my 1:29 earned me 3rd place. The winner of my age division was exactly 1 minute ahead of me, certainly within striking distance. The only problem is that next year I'll be 50 and in a new age division.
I'm very pleased with today's race. I feel like I ran smart and pushed hard through the finish. I reached my stretch goal of matching last year's time even though I don't feel my training is quite where it was last year at this time. The temperature was perfect. The day was beautiful. I wish more of my buddies could have shared it, but Terry, Tom, and Lyle all had great runs. All in all, I think it was a pretty good use of my time this morning.
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