I’ll probably write more tomorrow, but I just wanted to get a quick post out about today’s race; the Dismal Swamp Stomp Half Marathon in Chesapeake, Virginia. I decided a couple of days ago I’d attempt a new PR (personal record) – training has gone well since the Shamrock Marathon a month ago and I just had a good feeling about the race. My previous best was 1:19:45, so the goal was to run faster than 6:06 per mile – no mean feat for 13.1 miles.
Despite having several good training sessions in the innovative Newton training shoes, last night I decided to stick with the tried and tested Brooks ST3 Racer. I figured a half marathon was probably not the best time to try out a new shoe style and it turned out to be a good decision.
To cut a long story short, I set a new personal record by over a minute and finished in 1:18:39. It still hasn’t sunk in to be honest. On my way to a great half marathon finish, I also set a new 10 mile personal best – crossing the timing mat in 59 minutes 53 seconds. This was the first time in my life I’d broken the magic hour for running 10 miles.
I also beat a guy I’ve never beaten in the 10 years I’ve been racing in the USA, finished 1st place Local Runner and 2nd place Masters Runner.
Days like today are very rare, very special and naturally don’t come along very often. The following is a bold statement, but today was probably the best race I’ve ever run.
I’d just like to take this opportunity to say thanks to Kale Running for putting on a great race, to all the runners out on the course who cheered for me and helped spur me on, to each and every one of my online friends for their support, encouragement and congratulations and most of all to my wife Ally for being there (as she always is) on this special day.
Not sure how I’m going to follow this up, but I’ll be doing my best to pull out something special at the Frederick Marathon in two weeks time. For now, I’m going to enjoy the traditional celebratory Samichlaus (technically I’m allowed two, seeing as though I set two PRs today!) and focus on the recovery.
Thanks for reading and enjoy the rest of the weekend….
Congratulations Steve – that’s awesome. Seeing how well you’ve been running of late I ought to invest in shares of Samichlaus!!!
I think I’ll drink one in your honor. Well done young man!!!
How amazing Steve, I can’t imagine how pleased you must be can’t wait to hear about the Frederick marathon
Here’s to good weather conditions in two weeks for a run at another PR in MD. I will be there to cheer you on!
Nice job Steve. It’s always amazing to watch you keep knocking out these impressive times.
…maybe it’s the Samichlaus.
Awesome Race Steve!
A big congrantulations on a nice PR and Master’s place!
You’ve run some amazing races this year and it keeps on going! Fredericks looks good for you!
It was nice seeing you out there!
Charlie
Wow, what an awesome race Steve. Congrats! I hope Frederick turns out to be just as good. I’ll see if I can make it there to cheer you on – I think I’m going to take some time and regroup and tackle the 26.2 again in the fall.
Congratulations Boyo on a splendid run indeed!
Congrats on that PR, great effort.