Notes
Feeling alright and got to the start line at an optimal time (assuming the race starts on time, which it did). Nate Hopp was there and he suspected a young fast kid was around so I knew I wouldn't be getting out with the leaders. I didn't get out too fast, probably around 15th place but quickly passed the high schoolers and caught up with Rebel. We just focused on getting into 4th position and did that by the mile (Hopp, Drew, and college kid up ahead). We hit 5:26, pretty happy with that considering I hadn't looked at my watch.
We were joined by another runner, and I could tell just by his shadow that it was Tyler Sullivan, a solid IC/CR runner I'd met at many races. He actually took the lead and I dropped back by a few steps before coming back. Rebel remarked after the race that Tyler was surging throughout the race, but at the time I thought that I was just wavering.
In the 3rd mile, I again lost a few steps before coming to a downhill and actually taking the lead again. But right as the slight uphill started, Tyler took the lead and I was left wanting. Rebel joined him and those 2 gradually pulled away, getting about 15m ahead. But with the 4th mile came a downhill and some confidence that I had strength left. I took the downhill hard and for the first time pushed on an uphill to pass Rebel. I was a bit confused about the next turn, but it came sooner than expected and got the motivation to get close to Tyler. I tracked him for 1/4 mile and kicked past him for 4th.
A decent race (a little short, I basically hit 5:30 the entire race) but fun to compete with 2 others, get a kick in, and win a pie with my favorite running mates. My stomach wasn't great but I breathed well enough. I also wore pants and a pullover for the first time ever in a race. But I didn't feel hot during the race so I'll probably try warmer clothes next week too.
The Return Of The Turkey Trot