And Now Crest

Okay, here’s a half marathon update. The morning started perfectly: two poops. This was very important considering I went to an Indian buffet for lunch the previous day and then ate empanadas along with an artichoke, fennel, and edamame salad for dinner. Saturday morning was chilly, low 40s. The sky was spitting a little sleet and then a little rain. These are conditions that make a runner hesitant about what to wear. I ended up deciding on short sleeves, shorts, and gloves. I settled into a pace of six minutes per mile. This was very comfortable. The 10k and the half marathon started at the same time and continued on the same course for about five miles. It’s strange not knowing who is running the half at first. When we separated from the 10k runners, I saw two runners just in front of me. After a while, I saw two more in the distance and I figured that was it – four people ahead of me. I thought maybe they would come back to me over time. This part of the course was an out and back, so I would get to see how they were looking. As I neared the turnaround point, I saw a fifth runner: the leader. He was far out in front and looking strong, looking like a St. Thomas All-American as it turns out. As he disappeared, three of us started to reel in the other two (second and third place). Now it was beginning to feel like a race and at mile ten I decided I wanted to race. I picked up the pace and it wasn’t too long before I realized the other guys were already maxed out. I was working hard at this point but I still felt relaxed and smooth. I felt great afterwards, with the exception of my calves. Ouch! I don’t know if I will be able to wear the New Balance Zero shoes for the marathon. It’s a shame, because they feel awesome during the race, but I can foresee them causing cramping. Anyway, it was a good run. I think a 2:41 may be within reach.