First marathon ever. Very pleased with my time. Blog about the race later. Here is that blog I promised: Miles 1-7: I was told to start off slow and I definitely agreed with that advice. Having the chance to only do one 20 miler and then just easier runs because I was finishing up school reinforced my decision to start off slow. My buddy was pacing the 1:30 half group so I decided to stay with him until the half/full turn-off. It was a nice 6:50 pace and was having a good time just relaxing and talking to the people around me. Miles 8-14: After the turn-off, I started to pick-up the pace. I guess the excitement was stored in me because I really started to pick it up. Most miles were low 6; however, I think one or two of them were sub 6. Came through the half in about 1:24 and had my summer Coach provide some GU for me there. Miles 15-20: Started to feel fatigue right about now. Pace gradually slowed to around 6:30s, but was still running strong and got through mile 20 in 2:10, just what I wanted. Miles 21-25: Struggle...big time! Suffered through some 7 to 7:30 miles until the last mile. I had good support of others to finish and that helped reduce the temptation to just walk. Mile 26.2: I just remember seeing the finish line and wanting to be done. It seemed like it would never come. I pushed super hard and got there in 2:57:13. Really happy with the sub 3 first marathon. Going to take rest of the week off until some minor knee pain reduces. Want all to heal properly. Looking forward to the next marathon. |