Mid month crisis (Nov)

Mid month crisis time again as I struggle to break 19. Luckily, I succeeded once this month, although barely.

There was a rare Friday race (Waterford) but I opted out based on past experience (only top overall, no master plus I got jipped a position at award ceremony (posted winner several times on time sheet)). The racewalk division was eliminated, as was my interest. Congrats to Ronnie for winning the event.

Saturday agenda-key run!

There were 2 events with multiple distances:

1. key Biscayne lighthouse run 5k & 1ok
2. key largo bridge run (half, 10k, 5k)

I skipped on #1 when the dual race option was eliminated. On top of that, no award ceremony; look for name & pick up award.

Last year, this event was called the jewfish creek half marathon but was renamed for this year. After I found out the hard way that it was 10 year age groups & no master title, I decided on the short distance 5k so I can have a chance to take home some hardware other than a finishers medal. I wanted an easy run but got challenged by last year's age group winner Allan W, who also set the course record; he was 3rd overall but only the top was given last year. This year, they improved by recognizing the top 3. By the grace of God, I got that last slot. after applying the master kick in the last stretch. With no master title, he was bumped to age group but also successfully defends his title despite dropping a position. Judging by the times, you can see this was a tactical race designed to overcome the challenges (bridges & wind from north) presented to us. I was both happy & disappointed; the latter because I was mere seconds from second! In the fact, the winning time is one I should have beaten; can't really complain.

Sunday agenda-race!

Better selection:

a. muddy buddy (AZ)
b. rock n roll San Antonio half/full
c. Naples on the run 20k
d. 13.1 ft lauderdale
e. Miami man (du/tri)

Passed on the 1st 3 due to proximity. The most logical is e. but considering how much I struggled & how much it cost last year, I went with d. I been there, done that with both events. Besides, this year, the organizers have now created a series medal for doing 3 or more of their races & this was the kick off!

I found out the Spencer was going to be a pacer & chose the 1:30 group, a time I can do on my best day. Weather, minus the wind, was favorable, but not the course (a tunnel & a bridge). Another teammate was with the 1:40 group, a decent time but not one that satisfies me. Well, actually, compared to the Halloween half, it would be a dramatic improvement. This was Spencer's first time a pacer (same for wife Julie (1:50)), so he wound up running ahead of schedule, giving all those who kept up PRs; his wife was spot on. Praise the Lord, I finished between them & got a PR for the year. I told them prior to the start I'd be happy to be sandwiched between them & it came to fruition.