Lake Washington Half Marathon Race Report – Dionne

Race: Lake Washington Half Marathon

Runner: Dionne

Date: 11/4/17

Location: Kirkland, WA

Results: 1:51:24

Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/1261199297

3 Bests – what aspects of the race did you like the most

1. Easy and fast to pick up the BIB in the morning of.
2. If you know the area very well this could be a very spectators friendly course.
3. Plenty of space at the start/finish area to meet up with your friends/family.

Not so much – aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you

The course has few of a very sharp turns that can slow you down. Especially towards the end right before the finish line when you enter the Juanita Beach area, there’s a very sharp left turn that if you are not careful and trying to run fast could potentially slow you down. It is also a hillier course than I thought. But with that being said there’s CKC where you can have some consistent pace going or gaining more speed on the downhill side.

Highlights of your race – what did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular

The fact that Matt and Julie live right off the start/finish line was awesome for me. When I was done I just went straight to their place to warm up and change and all that. No need to be changing in cold weather outside.

Lessons Learned – share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner or yourself on the next time around

This HM is part of my training of a race in December (CIM). It is indeed a good race for your training as it’s got some hills, flats and downhills to train on.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

The last sharp left turn to the Juanita Beach area. If you are going fast you could potentially miss it and have to stop to turn. I almost did and had to slow down big time so I won’t slip/fall.

Organized and well run – did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?

Yes, it is a well organized race.

Logistics – Anything special regarding getting to/from the race, hotels around the course, registration…?

Very easy to get to from everywhere I supposed. Plenty of parking space throughout.

Weather and typical race conditions

It was 33 degrees this year. Just your typical PNW weather it could be raining, snowing, sunny or anything in between. I was able to warm up for a good 20 minutes with Julie on the course and I peeled off my shell and only wore a long sleeve, short sleeve, a capri, ear covers and gloves on.

Spectators – is this a friendly course for your friends and family?

Super friendly and easy to get to. They did not close any roads and only block the traffic when runners crossed the streets.

How’s the swag?

3/4 zippered-long sleeve technical shirt. Better than regular long sleeve shirts.

The Overall Score – how many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it

4 out of 5 only because of how cold it was :-). If the temperature was warmer this is definitely a 5 out of 5 HM.