Notes
15 miles of hard cross country. Field loops were sunny, muddy, and humid, couldn't push off well and there weren't any good lines in places. After 10 miles the course firmed up a bit so I could run with some rhythm.
Slipped on the turnaround at 1k, and recovered, was in third basically from 5k on. Tried to hold on as long as possible to get distance on forth. Around 10k? Maybe earlier, I made an adjustment and made sure to take more fluids at aid stations and catch my breath for a minute or so, so the Dirigo guys really extended their lead. I got past 10, and at least felt like I was running better on the hard trail, but it felt like there was more climbing. Passed two guys walking up the hill, and they looked kind of like the Dirigo guys, so I made sure to keep in front of them. Then at the next aid station, Todd from CMS (masters guy) came into the aid station and was moving, so I got right out of there. This happened again around 13 miles, and then it was just a mad dash to the finish. Luke told me I was in third when I passed the Bangers about a quarter mile out, which I was confused at, but I made sure I held position. Apparently one of Tess' friends made a big move at the end to catch Todd and finish about 10s behind me, but I didn't see him till he said hi afterwards.
Fun race third overall, talked to the Dirigo guys and Todd after, and then a guy got a picture of my slip at the beginning, he ran into me and sent the picture along.