New Bo Fest Half Marathon

The training program called for a 26 mile run. I know endurance is one of my weaknesses, and I know how important these long runs are. But, I cannot run alone.  I tried different running partners, and it was hard to find a person who wanted to run 26 slow miles. My best option was offered by Jen. She planed to run about five miles before the New Bo Fest Half-Marathon, and then maybe a couple more miles after the race. I knew I was going to be dead tired after running a half marathon race. But, I thought, racing plus a few miles BEFORE the race could well substitute 26 slow miles.
I was able to run about six very slow miles before the race started. 

Not sure what pace to run, but went a little bit too fast for the first few miles.  I was following some "pretty" good runners, but I knew it was going to be hard to keep that pace for 13 miles. I ran sub-seven MM pace for the first  five miles. Then, I had to let them go and slow down a bit. Miles 11-13 were 9:00, 9:24 and 9:15 MM. I decided to walk in the water stops and hydrate well. I think that might have helped a little bit. The race was extremely well organized, as they usually are here in Cedar Rapids. 

Now, it's time to taper until September 22nd. Let's see if I can stay with the 8:05 MM pacer for 26 miles. I'll try to run smart and stay behind the pacer this time. I will also try to get as much rest as I can at least two days before the race.