Notes
Sherpa and I got out together and settled into a group after feeling each other out. I was feeling good with the pace and wasn't really happy to upset that with Twin Springs. Sherpa made a strong effort uphill and I kept contact but completely lost him on the downhill. However, he basically waited for me at the bottom.
5k: 18:00-18:30
Once we merged with the 5k route, Sherpa accelerated the pace. Pollux soon joined up and then I took over the pace-making. After a few more lead changes, we crossed to Ice Cave Road and relaxed a bit.
8k: 28:30; 10k: 35:30
On the downhill heading into Palisades, Sherpa took off again and we let him. Once into Palisades, Pollux made his bid on the uphills and took the lead. I kept contact with Sherpa and regained my composure, but on the downhill once again, I completely misjudged the pace up ahead and lost sight of them. All of a sudden I was on the gravel and probably 30 seconds back. I managed to pick up the pace to match them and started catching Pollux. I passed him on the Dike (he was hit by a side ache) and was feeling worn but strong. But Sherpa had too much ground on me and I never hinted at catching him.
15k: 53:15
This was about the same time I ran right after college. It was certainly a fun race, but I clearly haven't been in a fight for the victory in a while. I was too concerned about running my own race that I missed every big move. As far as fitness, I'm happy with where I am for deciding to race a week ago and having more miles to do this summer.
*Elveløpet