Well after running down here in southern Utah for over 5 years I finally went up to this little race. Most the guys down here have ran it a few times but it never works out for me. Today it did and I'm glad I finally got to eat that breakfast:) We got in 3 miles of warm up. Steve, Bill, Logan, Scott and myself. Then we got on the bus and road up to the start. I was trying to just be laid back about the race and not get too amped as I sometimes do. Was able to take care of my potty stops and that wasn't ever a issue during the race- so that's already a positive. Main goal for the race was to go up and try to run a 32:00 ish min race. I thought I could but it would be hard. Ended up exceeding my goal by hitting 31:20 and realized I died on the last or maybe I could have come closer to a 31 flat. 1. 4:52- Logan and I get out of the hole and just settle into a comfortable pace. 2. 4:59- Now we are just running together trying to cut the tangents just perfect and stay out of the cops exhaust. 3. 5:01- Hit a nice 5k but am getting myself mentally ready for the flat harder part of the course. Logan slides into the lead starts to run strong and I wonder if I can go with him. 4. 5:13- Still feeling pretty good and starting to pass the walking 5kers. Logan is out in front as we take the turn into town. 5. 5:18- Dug in on this mile and refused to give up. Wanted to run a 32:00 something and knew I could do it from here. 6. 5:35- This mile climbs up main street. I caught and went by Logan right at the first of this mile but he was just right behind through the finish. I felt like I was slowing down big time... and in hind sight I was. Wish I could have battled this mile better. .2 slipped to 6:00 pace on the last little stretch as we turned into the park. I was really happy as we finished. I saw the time and was pleased to have hit the goal. Not the race of a lifetime but a good solid, positive racing experience. That's what I need right now- so I'm happy. It's nice to see some of the training paying off. I know it's not record fast but I think if I'd have ran this race in 2007 I would have been faster today. Now to work on half's and the full. | 