Notes
The race went out relatively easy with the eventual winner jumping right into the lead and pulling ahead in the first 1/2 mile. I was sitting at about 30th place through the first mile and began moving through the field as I tend to run even splits. I was awaiting any mile markers and eventually looked down to check my watch. Eight and 1/2 minutes, already half way through and feeling very easy, too easy! I began moving up through various packs of runners as we hit mile two and a strong driving headwind in 10:46. I do well in the wind and noticed several runners struggling and coming back to me fast. I continued to press harder as I reached each successive group and moved ahead. With 1/2 mile to go we were flying down hill and preparing for an all out effort to the finish, I misjudged my reserves and left too much for the end. I covered the last 1.3 in 6:48, (5:14/mile) half of which was into a nearly 30mph headwind.
I am satisfied with my place as my goal was top 20, but the time wasn't what I had hoped. The only thing I can say is the Uli Steidl who won the last two years covered the course 44 seconds slower than his winning time last year. I will check to see what the average differential is, but I believe that I was good to go sub 17, and will be running much faster as I continue on this program.