After my ankle surgery in May, I was looking for a goal race to spur my running recovery. The 1st Annual YMCA High Altitude Half Marathon fit the right time frame and was basically in my back yard. Three weeks of travel immediately before the race wasn't the ideal way to prepare, but it provided a built-in excuse if things turned out badly. They didn't. I ran the race I had planned and met my goals: get to the finish, increase effort and pace every 4 miles - negative split, don't bonk, finish strong.
As for the race itself, the organizers did a good job for the first iteration. Despite the poor (non-existent) traffic control at some turns, everyone stayed safe as far as I know. A last minute course adjustment made it a bit harder to navigate than it might have been otherwise, but it wasn't a big deal for me. Five water stops were sufficient, particularly since it was only about 20 degrees. (Why were the trashcans at the water stops located at the water table instead of 100 yards or so down the road? Drinking while I stood at the table instead of grabbing a cup as I ran past was an unnecessary delay.) Swag was good, door prizes were plentiful, and everyone was super supportive and friendly. I hope they do this again next year.
Anyone got any ideas for winter/spring races I should add to my calendar?
Good job, especially considering the injury! Man, you really came back fast from that. Congrats. I hadn't heard about this one or I might have tried it. It looks much harder than my only other half-marathon, though.... Next year!
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