My plan was to run the first four miles, walk mile 5, run 6, 7, 8, walk mile 9 then run the last 4.1. I was able to stick to the plan until the final 4.1 which I struggled to run the entire time because I started to form pains in my knees and foot and my HR was getting harder to manage so I walked more than I wanted too. Plus there were a few late race hills that made it even harder to stick to the plan, but it's all good. I wanted to finish under three hours and I did, so that made me happy. I utilized Powerade Shots, which I really liked and had one GU (which I didn't like the texture and don't think I'll use those again). I didn't carry water with me, so I had to utilize the hydration stops which didn't work well with the times I was walking, so that was hard, but I was still able to drink enough and I didn't feel like I was going to faint, so I must have done something right. :)

Well, considering the farthest I have ever run at one time was four miles, I might try taking it more serious next time. I didn't train for this since the Army Ten-Miler is more important to me and I really only did this for the mental practice and to see if my body could handle it for the Ten-Miler next month. I was pleasantly surprised and if I took it more seriously, my body wouldn't have been so shocked when I was done. My knees swelled up pretty good and I didn't expect that, but they seem to be adjusting okay with ice and ibuprofen.

Ballistic stretching and walking around followed by static stretching. It never felt like enough stretching to feel good...still doesn't.


The fact that I didn't train exclusively for this, I'm carrying a lot of weight still. It's all good...this is just another notch on my list of things I have done and will more than likely do again.


I had the best time at this event. Mix jets, bombers, planes, with military people, a great route, fun stations, organized event (the baggage claim pick-up line was crazy long and slow, unfortunately) and you have the great makings of an exciting event! I hated having to walk nearly a mile to/from my car to the starting line, but not sure there would be any way around that. I heard some people had issues with parking lines, but I didn't getting in and out with a lot of ease. I was pretty happy and look forward to it next year!