Weather - 52 degrees, cloudy, very windy. Another race with tough conditions. I had to throw out my time goal of 6:50 per mile because of strong winds (25-35mph). I was still able to beat last years time by 32 seconds, with a pace of 6:54 per mile. If the wind was moderate I am guessing I could have averaged a 6:45 per mile which would have knocked about a minute off of my time. Overall I am pleased with how it went. I felt fresh and strong, and my pace was consistent throughout. The wind was pushing somewhat at my back for the first 3 miles with a semi-cross, but since I start races moderately, I was not able to take full advantage. After mile 3 the rest of the race was against either a cross wind or directly into it. At mile 5 it was directly into my face, and I probably ran that mile in 7:45. It got a little better at mile 6 with a direct crosswind, but its strength continually pushed me so that I was running bent. I was not passed by anyone in the race, and I was able to pick off 10-15 runners as the race progressed. Last year I placed 43rd, and this year 29th, so that may be a better indicator of my improvement this year. #169 z.m. - #83
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