Race: Lake Washington 1/2 Marathon
Runner: Mark D
Race Date: 11/02/2019
Location: Kirkland, WA
Results: 1:52:38
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/2836056568
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
This is one of my top two funnest races I have raced. Running along Lake Washington, taking in the Lake and the mountains in the distance were beautiful. After the hills in the beginning of the race, entering a wide, flat gravel trail that went on for miles… And, last but not least, the people. I am not usually chatty when at races, but for some reason I was this time, before the race I talked with fellow racers and, truly new to me I engaged others in conversations during the race…
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Some of the aid stations didn’t have enough ppl handing out water and electrolytes. A couple of stations I wanted water, but got the electrolytes instead, cause wasn’t enough ppl with water.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
This was supposed to be an easy long run, a training run for my Seattle Marathon next month. I only joined TRR a month and a half ago because I had been hurting bad my last HM and Marathon with poor times (all relative). My previous races didn’t have many, if any hills, so this was my first trial of running with hills and it was relaxing and a real confidence booster. To finish only 40 seconds slower than my PB was a bonus! My favorite part was feeling under control and not dying, the ability to chat with others along the way!!!
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
My coach is instilling in me, effort over pace. If I had followed it more closely (not stayed with pacer for first 2 miles), I may have done better…
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
90% of uphills are in the first 6 miles. Long flat on tops and a very fast long downhill about 3 miles from the end.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Beautiful course, running along Lake Washington, then a long plateau on train above the lake.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
This is a pretty easy course.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
The organizers did fantastic, everything went off without a hitch!
Competition – Is there a strong field?
If you want to be competitive you can. A new course record was set this year, by 1 second. The field had a staggered start, competitive and those for fun or walking…
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Standard.
Weather and typical race conditions
This year, it was colder than usual with a start temp 34 degrees.
How’s the Swag?
Nice quarter zip long sleeve top, and clunky medal.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
9 stars
