Race: Overlake Labor Day Half Marathon
Runner: Uli Steidl
Date: 9/4/2017
Location: Redmond, WA
Results: 1:08:25, 2nd overall
3 Bests – what aspects of the race did you like the most
- Flat course P
- Plenty of free parking right next to the start/finish area
- Good competition
Not so much – aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
This year the race course was 0.5 miles short as the turn-around on the out-and-back was set up 0.25 miles too soon. This has not been the case in past years and I am sure they will make sure the course is correct next year.
Highlights of your race – what did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular
Ran an even pace and would have run the time I was going for had the course been the right length (I ran about 3 min faster on a 1/2 mile shorter course…). Enjoyed to see one of my former athletes who now coaches at Edmonds-Woodway HS with her team at the 7 mile aid station.
Lessons Learned – share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner or yourself on the next time around
Sometimes you just race for place when you realize the time is mostly irrelevant.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The course is very flat with a few short minor ups and downs.
Organized and well run – did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
It is usually a very well organized race. The course setup snafu this year is not indicative of how this race is usually organized.
Logistics – Anything special regarding getting to/from the race, hotels around the course, registration…?
As I said, easy free parking at the race, no line at packet pick-up, food samples at the finish line, several aid stations along the course.
Weather and typical race conditions
It was warm and dry, typical early September weather here.
Spectators – is this a friendly course for your friends and family?
Yes, by walking a little over a mile friends / family can see you 3 times along the course.
How’s the swag?
Typical. Finisher’s medal and technical long-sleeve
The Overall Score – how many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it
8 out of 10. That assumes the course length is correct again in the future.