Short Version

9.6 miles in 1:30:16

147/366 OA

29/92 AG

Long Version

I decided to run this race in preparation for my first half on the 24th. Unfortunately, I pulled my groin in December and took about a month off to let it heal, so I wasn't as prepared as I had hoped. Over the past two months, I've averaged about 24 miles/week, ran 8 miles three times, and 10 miles once. My goal going into the race was just to finish comfortably. I hoped to average less than a 10 minute/mile pace, but I didn't want to actively pursue a time goal.

The course is an out and back on the Capital Crescent Trail Towpath in Georgetown, DC.  The fact that the Georgetown 10 Miler takes place in Georgetown must have slipped my mind when I registered because I am not a fan of driving around and parking in DC. I made sure to leave for the race with plenty of time to get lost/turned around, which did end up happening. Thankfully, I was able to park in a garage less than half a mile away and was bibbed and ready to go 45 minutes before the start. It was high 40s at this point and was supposed to only get warmer. I debated taking my jacket back to the car, but indecision was ultimately my decision and I started the race with it on.

Miles 1-5: 9:23, 9:46, 9:53, 9:47, 9:31

The race started in alphabetical waves, so I was in the first group to start. The first mile felt great, but I could tell it was too fast – my shins often cramp if I don’t ease into it – so I slowed down. The waves started two minutes apart and the second wave started passing me shortly after the first mile. I just kept focusing on keeping an easy pace. I knew that the easier I took it those first few miles, the easier it would be for the last few.

The first mile marker was supposed to be at 2.5 miles, but it was 0.2 short. I really hoped that there would be a long mile to make up the difference later on, but there wasn't. Around mile 4, the man who I assume won the race passed me as he headed back to the start.

Miles 6-9.6: 9:14, 9:20, 9:08, 9:32, 4:44

I felt great at the turn-around point and actually passed a few people on the way back. Mile 9 was mentally tough for me, though. I’d only run this far once before and couldn't seem to focus. Just over a quarter mile from the finish, a runner who had already finished was standing along the course cheering us on. He told us the finish line was “just ahead.” The girl behind me then took off. I waited until I could actually see the sign before taking off myself. I was surprised at how much energy I had left for my kick (I even passed a few people including the girl who took off before me) and after the race itself. I supposed that was how I had planned it, though, and I feel much more confident about finishing my half now.

Overall, I’m happy with my performance and think I can run my half at a similar pace.  

Awesome race, sounds like you are ready for your half. Good luck, enjoy and stay healthy.

My first road race was the Washington St. Paddy 10K several years ago; I truly loved the experience and love visiting Georgetown and Washington.

Ron

Congratulations.  Good luck on the HM.

Well done!

Great job, nova!

You kept up a nice pace for the whole race!  Congratulations!  This race was excellent preparation for you HM.

Good luck with your Half coming up!

Well done!

Great job!  Sounds like you are well prepared for your HM!

It sounds to me as though you executed your plan perfectly, congrats. You are going to be just fine for the half.