Race: Cannonball Half Marathon
Runner: Eric P
Race Date: 10/12/2019
Location: Greensboro, NC
Results: 1:28:47, 7th overall, 2nd in age group
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/2782753221
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
The course was great with a good mix of flats and hills and beautiful scenery of some parks, greenways, and a few open roads. I was most impressed by the post-race festivities. This was a small race, but there was an amazing band playing, lots of great food, and 5 different breweries. We got 2 beer tickets with our bib! For me personally, I probably loved my result the most! This was a 2 minute PR for me and I wasn’t even expecting or aiming for that. This was a tuneup race and fitness test for the upcoming Philadelphia Marathon, so I am excited for what is ahead. I also got to meet running legend Jeff Galloway!
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
I’m not sure why this race is called the Cannonball Marathon. Someone asked me and I still can’t figure it out.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
My pacing in this race was excellent. My 5k splits were 21:24, 21:22, 21:15, and 21:07 before the finish. I maintained a steady pace and even ran a negative split. My last two miles were the fastest! My goal was to run marathon pace for the first 8-10 miles and then pick it up. I kept looking down at my watch and I was running faster than expected. So I kept trying to dial it back and keep it under control. In the last 3 miles there were a lot of hills and I picked up the pace so I was really ramping up the effort there. Once I realized I might be able to break 1:30, I really pushed hard and I was super stoked to see this result. Thanks to my coach Maxx Antush for getting me to this point.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Stay patient and in control for at least the first half of the race.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Medium, a few hills but nothing crazy.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Yes, very organized.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
No, the field was pretty small so if you are are fast you will likely be running alone.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Perfectly spaced.
How’s the Swag?
Pretty great, the medal was cool and we got a long sleeve technical T-shirt as well.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
8/10