OH MY FUN!!! Paced the 1:50 group for the Drop 13 with Julie today. It was an absolute blast!!! I grew up in Holladay and LOVE Big Cottonwood Canyon and am doing the full marathon in Sept. so I figured when Walter announced this race for pacers, I'd jump in. I was a little nervous about having the oomph to motivate people, but I felt the best I've ever felt during a longer run. It was actually a little difficult to hold myself back. I would've loved to have raced this one, but really enjoyed the easier pace and company and most of all, helping others reach their goal. I really do think serving others is so rewarding! The weather couldn't have been more perfect the entire time. I think the "Crossfit" style workouts at work help with downhill because as of now, my legs are totally fine. I am going to keep up on all of the plyometrics, etc.
Started right on time...I had to pee, but didn't make it before hand so I went around mile 4. All of the miles were marked pretty decent on the course and it was easy to keep track of our splits. We had about 1 minute in the bank towards the end, but figured we would use it just in case and try to help and motivate others. The course was a little short so we stood around at the end clapping and cheering for others for around 45 seconds and then ran in...I lost my mind and ran in 4 seconds too early, but there wasn't anyone else near so figured it was all good. I had 2 gals give me a hug and thank me for helping with their PR and several others thank us for being there to keep them on track. I have been on cloud 9 all day (except for the crummy tummy do to the GU at mile 5 that wasn't needed).
Now, for the important question...what pace do I shoot for in Sept. for the full. I felt like I could've easily run at least 1-1 1/2 minutes faster per mile, but the marathon has 17 miles down and then flattens out and only has a drop of 500ft. the last 9 miles. I don't want to kill myself and my legs down the canyon, but want to take advantage all I can of the down. It really is my strongest running. Welp, that's all folks! | 