Notes
Woke up before alarm, around 5:15. Got dressed and took dog around the block. Grabbed a banana and a granola bar for breakfast. In the car at 6:00, and found parking by 6:15. Did porta-potty and hung out in Cook Pavilion. Didn't see anyone I knew, but nice to see a lot of participants.
Lined up in corral D, heard Governor's welcome and national anthem, and the cannon went off. It did for real this year. I found myself with the 4:10 pacers through the whole race; didn't see the 2:05s from the start on. They were behind me, I'm pretty sure. Seems like I should have seen them, at least near the end.
No drummers or bands in the first couple of miles, which was a bit disappointing, but the crowds and entertainment got a lot better as we went. Pace good for miles 1 & 2, then a little slow in 3 & 4. More downhill in 5 - 7, and I was able to pick it up quite a bit. They say not to try to bank time, but I do so on the downhills, and lose some on the uphills.
Cheering supporters yelled my name several times, and I tried to acknowledge. That was nice. I was wearing the Horsetooth Half shirt, with the elevation profile on the back. 4:20 pacer said that looks awful. I didn't disagree.
The porta-potty stop in mile 11 cost me quite a bit of time, but did enhance my comfort. Last few miles didn't feel bad at all, and mile 13 was actually at a desired pace. I felt better today than I have in a month - finally getting over the colds I had.
The finish has been changed to be in front of Champions Club, and I think it's better. Got the medal, water, and the goodies box, plus a strawberry yogurt. That's what I ate first, then took the long walk (1 mile) to the car. Caught some of the FM finishers along there, including #1F, a cute, smiling, and very short woman.
13 seconds off goal; 4 seconds off 2nd place, durn it.