Last week's long run before the First Half race was a cold wet one. But I thought, I'm so fortunate that I am doing what I want to do at this very moment. Sure, I wouldn't have minded if it was warmer and dryer, but the fact of the matter is, I'm out there with a bunch of friends and we're having a good time.
The following week, the conditions were ideal to race the First Half Marathon. Cool and dry.
I went in thinking I'd run a 15k tempo and then slow down to a 5 min/k pace, but John would have none of that.
So I gave it.
I had a terrific race.
I went out a little too strong, 4:10 for the first km and then slowing to 4:25. By kilometer 3, I was in my zone and kept my pace of 4:36 for the rest of the race.
In the end, I knocked 10 minutes off my previous half marathon PB, and came in at 1:38:07.
The time translates to a 3:25 marathon. Pretty solid into a BQing. I was stoked.
BAA had a different plan.
- They are having a rolling/staggered admissions. Faster people get to register earlier... until the race is completely sold out.
- 2013 They are lowering qualifying times by 5 minutes across the board. But with the rolling admission, it makes the times moot.
I'm not giving up, but I am rethinking my strategy.
The balancing act of what is possible and what I'll likely need to be able to register. I'm thinking a sub 3:20 will be where I need to be. This gets me into the second group to be able to register, and is comparable to a 1:35:37 half... 2.5 minutes faster than my recent results.
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On the way home from JH the other day, I was driving along the Park drive when I was rounding a bend and saw headlights headed straight for me. I jammed on the brakes and avoided a collision. I suggested to the driver he was going the wrong way on a one way street.
I really am lucky to be given the opportunity to chase a dream.
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