Run > Race

Halstead Marathon
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Build up: Had not really been properly focussed on this - perhaps seeing it more as another step towards the May and hopefully June ultras. Therefore had not really researched pacing and targets, other than a desire for sub-3'15, and sub-3 as the dream (but not particularly deserved) scenario. As ever, a busy and slightly stressy week before at work didn't help - nor did some heavy DIY on Saturday afternoon and going round to some friends for a takeaway on Saturday evening.

Pre-race: Usual cereal at 6:20, honey sandwich in the car at 8, banana at 9:15. Short warm up, just to check socks, shoes, number etc. all comfortable.

Undoubtedly set off too fast, but the pace did not feel uncomfortable, and was in a nice little group of half a dozen runners. Through ten miles in 1'08, then went through a bad patch as the heat, hills and now head-wind took their toll. Felt a bit stronger at 17/18, but pace was now slipping above 7mm, and the sub-3 was slipping away. Through 20 in 2'18 dead. By about mile 22 was starting to struggle - particularly quads and glutes, and just the odd twinge of cramp appearing. With the sub-3 gone, and 3'15 very safely in the bag, inserted the odd walking break at the water stations and up the steeper hills. Last mile was particularly bad, and I was grateful for the verbal kick up the arse from someone who passed me. Usually I manage a small surge for the line, but had absolutely nothing more to give.

Post-race: Kicking myself now, as had I prepared properly I would have known that 3'06 was 70% WAVA, which with gritted teeth would have been do-able. Can't complain about my time though, given that it was hot, hilly and a bit breezy. No stomach issues. Blister on one instep. Slightly sore nipple where my plaster came off. Couple of sore toenails. Lessons for next time - better pacing, feet up all day on Saturday, nice flat course, more speed endurance sessions (i.e. long intervals or ~10miles at tempo).