I wish I could make lots of good excuses about why this (and other recent races and races to come in the near future) race haven't gone well...but ruth be told is that I just haven't trained half enough.
It was a pretty good mornign for a run. A little chilly, and a bit windy at times, but much better than the conditions I encountered last year. We misjudged the timing a little getting to the race so didn't park until 5 minutes before the start. In the rush I forgot my gloves, which was a bit of a rookie mistake. I had decided to run with the Napa group who were doing 9 easy and then the final 9.6 at MGP. I felt good (if a little cold) for the first 9, and then was able to hold MGP type pace for baout 6 miles before the legs started to go. In my defence the water stops in the second half of the race were far too far apart, e.g. there were stops at miles 2, 4, 6.5, 9, 11.5 & 15.....two back-to-back 3 1/2 mile stings without water is far too long for a thirsty runner like me. On a positive note I made it round in one piece and I'm not too sore today. I've two races left in the distance challenge....I'll get those done and then reeavluate a lot of things. I think for the half marathon I'll just run as hard as I can...and then my goal at Austin will be a 3:30 or so.
Note: I actually ran a bit quicker than stated, but for some reason the official website uses the gun time rather than chip time...normally there wouldn't be much different, but as were took it easy at the start we started right at the back.
| 