Racing and personal records?

Today I ran in my second half marathon. And what can I say?.I had a blast! And set a new PR!!!

It was a chilly Canberra morning, but the sun was soon shining, making it a perfect temperature for running.







The marathon, ultra marathon and half marathon competitors all started at once. I think there were over 1100 competitors, making it a large event. Surprisingly, however, the start was not too congested and it wasn?t long before I crossed the start line and settled into an easy rhythm.







(Game face?!)



Unfortunately road closures meant for limited spectator viewing points, sop I will just have to wait for the race photos to come out!



Mr BBB did, however, get a few snaps as I headed towards the finish line.



The first 10km consisted of a loop through the scenic parliamentary triangle which was, for the most part, a flat and speedy course.



This part of the race actually went pretty quick. The atmosphere was great and the volunteers were super friendly and helpful. A great race combination!



Before I started the race I had a secret goal of finishing in under 2 hours. When I hit the half way point at around 54minutes, I knew that the goal was not unrealistic?.assuming I could keep the same pace.



The next part of the course was an extended lap around Lake Burley Griffin. My legs were starting to feel tired around 13km, and I took a gel at 15km.



I had a chuckle to myself when at the 18km mark the 3hr marathon pacer (and his posse) flew past me!! Keep in mind that they had done an extra 10km loop! C-RAZY?.but oh so impressive :)



The final 6 km felt long, but I tried to focus on keeping up the pace. When I hit 20km at 1 hour and 50 minutes, I knew that a sub-2hour half was looking likely.







I soon entered the stadium, and after a final sprint, crossed the line at 1:56:24!!







I can?t believe that I shaved almost 8 minutes off my last half marathon!!!



I attribute this to one main reason ? my tummy felt fine during the entire race. That meant that I was able to take in ample water, and even a gel, something that I wasn?t able to do last time. Looks like my pre-race nutrition was  better this time around.



One negative, however, is that I am so much more sore and hungry than last time?! Perhaps the increased speed has meant for sorer leg muscles? Seriously, I can barely walk. Oh well?.nothing that a hot shower and good night?s sleep can?t fix.



Well I am off to grab some more food. Hope you are having a wonderful night!



Happy baking :)