Mad City Marathon - Half Marathon - RunHalf Marathon

My goal for this race was a 1:57 which was very reasonable based on my training. However, as race day approached and I saw the forecast, I knew my goal was not going to be attainable. I have never run well in heat and always struggle. The forecast was calling for 70 degrees and 85% humidity at 7am (race time) which couldn't get much worse this time of year. I knew this was going to be more of a survival competition and less of a race. So I took the approach that this was going to be a "character building" run.

When the race started I held back any desire to run faster than high 9/low 10 minute miles. Took gels at 45, 90 & about 110. Carried a 12 oz water bottle with me which I filled up at a couple of water "bubblers" along the route. Also stopped at every water station and had either gatorade or water. Had no deydration problems which was nice.

I really was okay until about mile 10 where the sun and heat finally took their toll on me. One thing that really helped were all the fine Madison residents in their front yards spraying down the runners with hoses or water sprinklers. I drenched myself several times and that made a big difference in helping me keep my core temp down. That was really nice of them.

The final mile uphill to the capital was really a challenge and a rather difficult way to finish. Basically plugged away to the finish line like a car in overheat mode desperately needing to be turned off.

I've never run a half marathon this slow before, but I have also never run a half marathon in this kind of weather before. So not happy about the results, but they were somewhat expected.

There really isn't much I can do in this type of weather other than slow down...which I did. I did hydrate properly, but still struggled especially late in the race when temps got into the 80's. Just not my cup of tea.

Drank some chocolate milk, water, and ate a bananna. Met up with Colleen and walked back to the hotel.


Mr. Heat Miser and his friend Mr. Humidity.


I did like the course and think the hills would haven't been much of a factor if the weather conditions were more favorable. I suspect I will seek revenge on this course sometime in the future. Always have a good time in Madison and it was definitely a fun time.