Took part in the inaugural Virginia is for Lovers 14k earlier today. Going into the race I had no real goal in mind and just hoped for a slightly-faster-than-goal-marathon-pace tempo run.
The 2 mile warm up went well, but as I made my way to the start line, the race director announced there would be a 15 minute delay due to traffic congestion – pretty impressive for an inaugural event.
Finally at 8:15am we were off. I’d positioned myself a few rows from the front, but due to a minor mix-up with the bike leader I soon found myself clear in 3rd place. Surprisingly, the first mile was quick – 5:50. I was expecting a 6:30. At this stage I was joined by the first place female and we ended up running side by side for the next 7 miles.
Each mile I expected the pace to drop, but somehow I kept it going:
The 5:50 first mile was followed by a 5:45, 5:48, 5:49, 5:54, 5:55, 5:48 and 5:49. My pace for the last part of the race was 5:28 per mile, but it wasn’t enough beat the first place female who out kicked me in the last half mile.
I ended up finishing 4th overall and breaking 50 minutes for the slightly-shorter than 14k distance – in a crazy-quick 49:52/average 5:49 pace. Somehow the 2nd place guy was omitted from the results (maybe he didn’t wear the timing-chip?) and as he didn’t stay for the awards, I was bumped up to 2nd overall male.
If the race were a 10 miler, I probably would have met one of the toughest goals still on my list – breaking 60 minutes for 10 miles. Maybe I need to track down a 10 mile race soon?
Despite the fast time and 2nd place finish, highlight of the day was to see fellow blogger Charlie back at the races 7 months after breaking his leg at the 2008 Mud Run. Charlie, if you read this, great to see you running, racing and smiling again! Can’t wait to read your race report too….
Congratulations Steve!
You are on a tear out in those races with some amazing times!
It was great to be out running again and I enjoyed being able to run again. Thanks!
Charlie
…but it wasn’t enough beat the first place female who out kicked me in the last half mile.
I wouldn’t worry too much about that. She trains 80 miles a week and is 15 years younger than you:)
Hey Charlie: way to come back with a new PR! I guess everyone PR’d today at the rarely raced 14k distance 🙂
Bob: yeah, not worried at all. don’t think i’ve ever run an 80 mile week in my life and i’m definitely not getting any younger….
You must have not run competitively in your younger days. The times you are running now are amazing. Your 17:09 puts you in 81% age grade which translates to National class.