2x5k in 15:16/15:20 3 min rest
8 miles @ 5:18 pace 6 min rest
1x5k in 15:06
Definitely the biggest workout I've done. Worn out, but fit, I figured I'd still have a chance at doing well.
The race started off quick, to put it lightly.
Through one mile in 4:33ish, I wasn't sure what was going on, but I was going to hold onto the lead pack no matter how fast they went. Through two in 9:16 (with a big hill) and three in 13:55, I was feeling it quickly. I dropped off the pace a little at that point and was floating alone until about 8 miles, when I caught up with Tim Richie of the B.A.A. We pushed through mile 9 together, and started to see the lead pack ahead of us, which had become disorganized, once Matt Tegenkamp threw down the pace grenade and things kind of went nuts up there. I felt strong, but a hill in mile 10 took a little of the pep out of my step, and the last two miles were a fight to keep pace and hold off the rest of the field.
I'm pleased with my 15th place finish. I've managed to place in the top 15 in 3 national championships this year, and this one had the toughest field for sure.
6 days later, I found myself at the Sioux Falls Half Marathon. Trish was running the marathon, and I knew I'd be there, so I thought I'd take a crack at some prize money. Trish ran really well and competed hard for the top spot, and managed to come in 3rd. I won the half, even though there were some course measurement issues (13.4 miles) but it was a good race and an interesting course, so no harm, no foul.
So, last time posted a picture of an Airstream trailer and a cryptic caption. For an explanation of this crazy adventure I'm about to go on, follow this link
