Notes
Light rain the entire race,something that I always enjoy unless it's cold. So I was loving it. :o) If I was feeling strong, my goal was sub 32:00. Last 5 miles (Holywod) I ran 32:35. Gelston is slightly short, but a bit tougher. I knew I was in better shape than Holywood, and it was a cooler day, so with Gelston being about 5-10 seconds short of an accurate 5 miler, I knew with a good race, I could get under 32:00.
Les went by me at the 400 and was 4 seconds ahead at mile one. When we hit the hills, he gradually pulled away and extended his lead to 20 seconds, so I knew there would be no chance of catching him.
When I hit mile 4 in 25:53, I knew it would take a 6:00 last mile to crack 32:00. I could hear someone from behind gaining on me, but I gave it my all the last half mile and said no way am I letting anyone, no matter what age to beat me in the last half mile. So when I charged hard, the footsteps faded away and I was also able to out-kick the guy in front of me who had a 6 second lead with 400 to go.
I was also only about 10 seconds behind Adam and this is by far the closest I have been to him.
Splits: 6:12, 6:31, 6:40, 6:30, 5:54 (5:58 pace as the last mile is slightly short - .99.)
18th place overall. 1st 60+.
I am psyched that I accomplished my goal and had a great race. I have made excellent progress in the 3 times I have run this race.
2013 - coming off knee surgery - 35:50.
2015 - coming off hamstring injury - 33:01
2016 - healthy and fit - 31:47.
Being injury free and able to do the work has paid off with great results.