Notes
Pretty darn happy with this race overall!!! Plan was 5:50s for the first 5k and then try to pick it up to 5:40s for the last 5k. As you can see I was a bit ahead of pace for the first 5k. Was just trying to relax and see who was around me. After the first mile, I notice that John VanDanacker was lurking right near me. Given the pace, I thought I might back off a bit and see what he wanted to do. Before I could, he put a move on. Decision time -- go with him or let him go? Given I was already ahead of goal pace, I let him go (mistake?).
Anyway, just kept on it. Basically settled into the back of a pack and chased. Nobody really behind me for quite a bit of time. Passed a few people here and there, but for the most part was maintaining. Saw John up ahead, but he was out of reach. Ended up beating me by 19 seconds. A little self doubt about whether I should have given it a shot.
For the most part, felt like the effort level was right where it should be. Maybe could have pushed a bit more?
Going to give this an A- due to the self doubt and being third in my age group. Competitive day!!!
Age Grade -- 87%