2012 Cherry Blossom 10-Miler

After two years of unsuccessful attempts to get into the Cherry Blossom 10-Miler, my lottery submission was finally drawn, so this year I didn't have to just be a spectator!

Though my training was hampered by injuries in the months leading up to race day, I was determined to start and complete the course, even if my pace would be super slow compared to what I'd usually like.

The conditions were excellent on race morning, and I stuck with my planned race pace almost exactly. Through 5 miles, I was feeling alright and right on 10 min/mile.

Half way, still rockin' it

Just after the mid-way point, a few major muscles started to tighten up. I attribute this to terrible training, but I figured if I didn't push too hard they'd last the remaining miles. Luckily I was right.

Finishing strong

I'd wanted to push the last 2 miles, but with how things were hurting and not wanting to re-aggravate injuries, I decided to hold off until a mile to go. That worked great, as I still had the energy to push hard up the hill at 1200m and then all the way through the finish line on the nice, flat 800m straightaway.

With my fast final mile, I ran a 1:39:27 (9:57 min/mile pace) 10-miler, and I am very happy with that.

See? Look how happy I am (to be done)!

My cheering section had spotted me at the 5-mile mark and then again at the end, so we met up afterwards, got a picture, and then headed for the metro.

With my cheering section

Considering my conditioning (or lack thereof), I'm content with my 2012 Cherry Blossom 10-Miler. If I get selected for next year's lottery, you can bet I'm planning to obliterate that time.