Seasons 20K September 6, 2015

I wasn't feelin' the love for another long road race. Especially on a course that promised hills, summer heat, and dreaded humidity. I did sign up for this, running distances from 5K to 42.2K, to enjoy the pleasure of competing. And enjoy it I will! We hopped into the van and took the easy, hour or so, drive up 495 to Acton. Parking was easy, and plentiful. The bib pick-up was quick and the volunteers friendly and helpful. We then greeted and chatted with the USATFNE reps for a couple of minutes. There was an announcement for the potentional Iron Runners to attend the finish line for a photo. I strolled over and lined up with a few CMS Teammates for the picture.

I ran about 2 miles earlier that morning at home, leaving the jog over to the start line as my warm-up. I followed the signs that pointed to the start line. I asked around and no one was aware of where the start line actually was located. About 10 minutes or so before 9:00am a pick-up arrived and the staff set-up the bib/timing sensors.

At first glance the field size appeard smaller than other Grand Prix races. I spoke a bit with Phil Savoy and saw a couple of other CMS folk.

With tribute to the Flag performed, and at the sound of the air horn, we were off. It was not crowded so I was just a couple of seconds off the start line. I hit, or so I thought, the start button on my watch. I checked my position as compared to the runners around me as not to go out to fast. It was getting hot already. I checked my watch and discovered that I hadn't pushed the start button. Thinking back, I probably hit the lap button. Anyway, I hit the start button about 300-400 meters into the race. I caught up with CMS teammate Phil Savoy. A couple/three miles in I caught up Garcia(GLRR) and Doneski(WRT) and we ran together for a bit. There were many trees, and thankfully shade, through much of the course. There were some downhill sections that left my legs sore on Monday. Around mile 7 I let the pace slip and everyone ran away from me. Miles 8, 9, and 10 took everything I had to focus, but I still was off pace. At Mile 11, I experienced a bit of resurgence, but that last 1.4 along Great Road was a fairly uncomfortable experience.

After crossing the finish line, for which I was extremely grateful, I was accosted by Jim Garcia who was waiting for my somewhat tardy arrival. We chatted for a few minutes about the race. I spoke with Phil Savoy, who I tried to stay with but didn't have the horsepower.

Overall, while way behind where I should have been in this race, I have had a good year. I picked-up a few more Grand Prix points, supported the CMS seniors as best I could, and had some fun. There is one last race left in the Road Grand Prix, the Lone Gull 10k in Gloucester, I ran Lone Gull last year as part of the 2014 GP. The course has wonderful views of the ocean as well as showcases New England approaching autumn. And, except for part of mile 2, it is fairly flat!

 A quick cooldown and I headed over to the Red Raven Pub to enjoy a free proferred adult beverage.

Next and last stop...the Lone Gull 10K, Gloucester, MA.