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Top of Utah Marathon

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Location:

Fort Collins,CO,

Member Since:

May 15, 2003

Gender:

Male

Goal Type:

Local Elite

Running Accomplishments:

Unaided PR's:
5K: 14:48 (Track - 2001)
10K: 30:45 (Track - 2001)
10K: 31:32 (Bolder Boulder - 2013)
Half Marathon: 1:06:09 (Duluth - 2013)
Marathon: 2:17:54 (Grandma's) - 2014)
Marathon: 2:19:47 (Indianapolis Monumental - 2013)
Marathon: 2:19:49 (Indianapolis Monumental - 2010)

Aided PR's:
10K: 29:38 (Des News - 2011)
Half Marathon: 1:05:30 (TOU Half - 2011)
Marathon: 2:18:09 (St George - 2007)
Marathon: 2:17:35 (Boston - 2011)

Short-Term Running Goals:

Diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis in June of 2008. Started taking Enbrel in March, 2009.

Run as much as I can, and race as well as I can. Make the most of however much time I have left as an able-bodied runner.

Training for the 2018 Colorado Marathon

Long-Term Running Goals:

  Run until I'm old, and then run some more. Stand tall.

Personal:

1 wife, 2 kids. 1 cat. Work as a GIS Specialist/Map Geek

Endure and persist; this pain will turn to your good. - Ovid

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. - Romans 5:1-5

 

 

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Race: Top of Utah Marathon (26.2 Miles) 02:20:30, Place overall: 1
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesCrosstraining milesTotal Miles
0.8026.200.000.000.0027.00

Ran the Top of Utah Marathon today. It was my 19th overall marathon, and my 8th TOU. I would like to get into the 10-year club, but it probably won't happen, at least for a while, since we are moving out of the state. :-(

Got up a 4:20AM (slept like a rock, travel does that to me). Went to go make the standard oatmeal & fruit breakfast, but found out in an untimely manner that we were out of oatmeal. Again, the perils of traveling all week and coming back to an empty pantry. So I improvised: breakfast of two poached eggs, vanilla yogurt, 2 peaches, and grapes, plus coffee of course. I usually would not mess with eggs and dairy on raceday, but whatever. I eat this stuff everyday, so it shouldn't hurt right? (it didn't, stomach was fine all race).

Drove down to Logan; it was raining. Bleh. But it was not cold, so that was okay. But rain is no fun, plus we usually don't get a tailwind when it rains. Eventually the rain let up...temporarily.

Parked my car, then took the bus up, it was one of the later buses. Still raining off and on. Got to the start line finally, then found the magic bathroom (I will not lend a description this time, as the secret is getting out). Spent the last 30 minutes chatting, warming up, and more potty stops. Was feeling fine, although it's always hard to tell until you really start racing. 

I was told the previous day that the returning champion, Sammy Nyamongo, had canceled, and that he would have been my best competition. Kind of a bummer, as my take on competition is, "the more the merrier" (slightly less edgy than "bring it").

But in any case, the plan was to go through the half in 1:08:00, and then see what happens. I had a lofty goal of breaking the course record of 2:16:35, and 1:08:00 is actually a bit conservative for that, but I figured if it was really "my day", then I would find a way to get it done the second half. But I didn't want to risk blowup, and DNF'ing a winnable race. A more realistic goal was 2:18:00, and then sub-2:20 would be good if that couldn't happen.

Weather was looking fantastic, as the rain had let up and temps were great, but about 5 minutes before the race started, we got a sudden downpour. Everyone scampered off the start line and into the nearest tent. I've never seen anything like it at a race of 2300 people! I ended up at the edge of an aid tent, and took advantage by applying some vasoline that was sitting on a nearby table. Chaffing could be bad in rain like this.

Then the rain let up again, right when it was time to start. They shot off the muskets, and away we went. Sure enough, no one went with me off the start line, and it seemed that I was to run this thing solo. Fortunately, I pace pretty well in a marathon, and don't mind running by myself. It means good tangents if nothing else.

Mile 1 ended up being a bit fast, 4:58. I wanted 5:10-5:15, so I dialed it back a bit. Mile 2 was 5:16, and then Mile 3 was 5:10. I felt good about this pace, and tried to keep it going down the canyon.

It continued raining off and on throughout the entire race. I thought it actually felt pretty good, as there was no wind, and it was not too cold either. The only downside was not having a canyon wind. But I kind of liked it, and it also made for some really beautiful visuals (low clouds and mist coming off the mountainsides), plus the wonderful smells of sage and autumn foliage. Yes, this is the kind of stuff I think about during a marathon. But it was truly an outdoor sanctuary, easy to worship God in this kind of beauty.

Anyway...Mile 4 was 5:12, then 5:15 for Mile 5, and 5:12 for Mile 6. 10K in 32:10. This was really the pace I wanted, and it felt pretty sustainable. I figured at this point that everyone was already several minutes back, kind of odd to think about. I had a police motorcycle escort though.

Mile 7 was another 5:12. Mile 8 includes the big downhill coming off the little dam, right about the half marathon start, and it was a 5:07. Followed it with 5:13 for Mile 9. I knew I would have to pick it up at some point to go after the course record, but I was not sure if I could handle a faster pace. So that was looking not-so-good, but at the same time, I would be quite happy with a 2:18, which was where I figured I was really heading.

Grabbed the Gu at the Mile 9 aid station...and then promptly dropped it! I was starting to fish for the Gu I had stashed in my glove (for this very situation...it happens a lot), when I heard footsteps behind me, and a boy huffing and puffing, holding out the Gu I had dropped. Yes! Thank you Mile 9 Aid Station Dude! Best aid station worker ever.

Despite slowing down over the Gu incident, I still managed 5:15 for Mile 10 (10-mile split of 51:54). Then 5:14 for Mile 11, 5:11 for Mile 12, and 5:09 for Mile 13. 1:08:02 for the half marathon. I was encouraged by my last couple splits, but still feeling that 2:16:30 was not really in the books.

Did another 5:09 for Mile 14, and exited the canyon onto Hollow Rd. 5:11 and then 5:19 for Miles 15 and 16, respectively. The 5:19 was a pretty significant drop, and not a good indication. This is a stretch of road that usually benefits big-time from the tailwind, which was not there today.

Tried my best to hit good splits for 17 and 18, before I got to the Millville Hill. Split 5:16 for both of these miles. Not bad, but I really needed to be at 5:10 or under.

The race turned odd for me, and really went downhill (figuratively, not literally), on the next mile, going up Millville Hill. I was cranking what I thought was a good pace, feeling good on the long uphill, but the Mile 19 split was 4:31. What?? In my oxygen starved brain, I figured they just put the aid station and mile marker a block ahead (although TOU never messes this kind of thing up). I was expecting 5:30.

Mile 20 is another slow mile, as the hill grinds on. 5:44 for this mile, and I was quite displeased...although I was expecting an even slower split to offset the "short" previous mile.

Right at this point, near Mile 20, one of my police escorts pulled back to inform me that we all missed a turn, and cut the course by a short amount, about 1.5 blocks total, which explains the missing 60 seconds on Mile 19 (apparently someone had radioed him). Say whhaaat?? I was a bit baffled, as I've run this race 8 times, plus I made the maps. But that's what happened: the cops led, and I followed (tunnel-vision by that point in the race). There was no volunteer there, and the course markings were not visible to me due to the wet road. (I'm partially color-blind, can't see certain types of contrast...seriously).

So...it all made sense as I thought about it, but now I'm worried about losing $1500 due to a blunder...on a race that I figured I was winning by 10 minutes. As Bill the Cat would say, Aaack!

Fortunately, the police guy radioed Bob Henke, the race director, who cleared it for me to make up the distance elsewhere (keep in mind we didn't find out about the issue until 2 miles past the point). However, it took about 15 minutes for all this to get figured out, and I'm still trying to run the race the whole time, fretting about the situation. These were not good miles. 5:24 on the downhill into Providence (Mile 21), then 5:42 for Mile 22, and 5:44 for Mile 23. These 5:40-ish splits were partially due to physical slow-down, but probably as much stress and lack of focus than anything (my head was elsewhere, but my feet just kept plodding forward).

So I was greatly relieved, obviously, when I received word near Mile 23 that this issue would not result in a DQ, but by this time I was in "just finish the darn race" mode. When we got into River Heights, the cops took me on a little out-and-back, one block in each direction, and then I resumed on the course. So this added on two full blocks, which is a quarter-mile, and made up more than I had chopped off. Not my finest moment, but these things seem to happen occasionally when you're in the lead! I will say that I'm very grateful to the Top of Utah management for finding a solution, real-time, and making sure I ran a full marathon distance (plus some).

Mile 24 was 7:04. This included the block out-and-back, so still 5:40 pace. Then 5:38 for Mile 25, and 5:44 for Mile 26, which has some uphill. 1:14 for the final 0.2, and I pretty much just plodded it in, didn't have much left. But I tried to enjoy the moment, as again, this is probably my last TOU. It was bittersweet in that regard, and I have a lot of memories from this race. Felt like I was saying "goodbye" to TOU during the last 0.2.

My final time was 2:20:30. It was a solid time, and I'm very pleased with the win above all else. It gives me even greater respect for Hobie Call's course record. It may be broken someday, but not today and not by me. I thought I should be able to do a 2:18, and it was a little disappointing to break my stretch of sub-2:20s, but I'm okay with it all. Mostly I'm grateful to God for this life and being able to run, and will never take a race like this for granted. Winning is always awesome. Running is a gift, and I hope I can keep doing it for quite some time.

Glen Tucker took 2nd, with 2:30:54 (PR), followed by James Moore (2:33:53), Sasha Pachev (2:34:15), and Nate Clayson (2:36:08). Nice job to bloggers, Top 4!

Saucony Type A Miles: 27.00
Comments
From Oreo on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 21:03:49 from 174.27.180.58

Again... amazed at your gift. Keep it roll'n and inspiring to the likes of me. Great WIN!!

From JamesH on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 21:06:23 from 208.117.127.7

Nicely done Paul. I am always impressed with your races.

From Jon on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 21:13:34 from 74.177.125.83

Paul, congrats as always. 8 times at TOU- pretty impressive. And you won your last 2.

So, did they take you on the first bridge into Millville, following the 1/2 course? Or where did they lead you wrong?

From Scott Ensign on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 21:59:31 from 67.42.254.227

Paul, congrats, great race. Shocked to hear you are moving though- where? fort collins? well, in which case we can run the bolder boulder every year maybe. it's not going to be the same around here without you as our leader.

good to see you today. glad everything worked out in spite of the lousy weather and the motorcycle guys missing that turn.

From Paul on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 22:02:18 from 24.10.141.104

Jon - no, we initially took the correct turn off of Hwy-165, but did not backtrack far enough. The course really meanders right there.

Scott - I will certainly miss Cache Valley. Nice seeing you on the course today. Hope you didn't take offense when I didn't want you to run with me, but didn't want anyone to accuse me of being "paced". Funny the that turn escapade happened right after that!

From Lily on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 22:06:12 from 67.199.178.210

Way to run Paul. I am in so much awe of you!

From JD on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 22:10:01 from 97.117.107.209

Congratulations Paul. Way to throw down a 2:20 and a win with a solo run.

From Rob Murphy on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 22:13:33 from 98.202.141.17

Congratulations on the win Paul.

I will certainly miss you even though we haven't properly met.

From Scott Ensign on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 22:15:49 from 67.42.254.227

Paul, not at all, I was actually just coming back to shout a few more words of encouragement before continuing on my way to to find Steve Anderson and Allie to cheer them on. And me pacing you, yeah right, ha ha. Too bad I didn't meet you just 200 yards earlier though as I had just come up the course from the turn your motorcycles missed as I was running the course backward. That is a really bad turn, it goes right when you are expecting to go left, it is not well marked, and for people who just ran the half marathon, expecting the marathon to follow the same route, it is even more confusing. There should definitely be a volunteer posted there, my guess is this incident will result in one being placed there next year. Well, let's get together for a packer game before you guys leave for sure!

From AmberG on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 22:32:22 from 67.2.217.49

CONGRATULATIONS!!! You are more than inspiring. THanks for sharing.

From Andrea on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 22:49:11 from 74.213.198.124

Congrats on the win! Sounds like it was quite a fiasco for a while, but still a great time! Funny that you made the maps :)

From Clay on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 22:54:07 from 76.27.43.34

Great win and way to hang in there Paul! good luck in Colorado!

From jtshad on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 22:56:27 from 12.187.226.130

Another great race and a good racing story. You have had some adventures with your hometown Logan races. Congrats!

From Adam RW on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 23:10:52 from 67.182.248.141

Paul, Congrats on the win. What state are you moving to?

From Jake K on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 23:17:04 from 74.213.198.124

Great job Paul. Its amazing that a 2:20 and the win is just another day at the office for you these days! Wrong turns, non-ideal weather, and running out front. You've been a huge inspiration to me since I joined the blog in the spring.

Hope you enjoyed that last 0.2, because in your next marathon, you'll probably have a bit of competition! :-)

From Seth on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 23:24:21 from 67.177.36.131

Great job man and congrats on the win! Good call on the vasoline.

From allie on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 01:48:29 from 24.10.191.18

congratulations, paul. you ran an incredible race, especially with everything that went on with the wrong turn. nice job keeping your focus.

best of luck with the move.

From Walter on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 02:17:08 from 24.2.69.110

I cant say it enough Paul! Are you really leaving Smithfield dude? I really enjoy reading your races! I am so blown away by you seriously! Nice job getting it done and Thanks for the runs whenever im up there! You are really a great person and a perfect role model! Keep up the great work my friend! Team USA is in need of your talent!

From Burt on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 02:25:57 from 72.223.91.148

Great job Paul. I'm glad you beat allie.

From Jon on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 10:44:30 from 74.177.125.83

Paul- it's amazing to see you continue to progress. I didn't realize that your time this year as 3 minutes faster than last- wow. What's most impressive is how consistently-fast you have become. Prior to last 12 months, you had only broken 2:21 one time. In the past 12 months, you have done it 4 times. Impressive.

From Jody on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 12:19:14 from 75.141.131.35

Congratulations! As always, very impressive. Thank you for sharing!

From josse on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 14:06:39 from 166.250.2.30

Cograts on the win, such an inspirational guy you are. Looking forward to the trials..

From Adam RW on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 15:07:59 from 67.182.248.141

Jon, Thank you for pointing out Paul's awesomeness. I was just telling my wife how modest he is and I'm glad someone is here to point out how remarkable this year (and yesterday) has been. Either way it was a great race but I have to echo your praise.

Paul, IMPRESSIVE!

From Spiderpig on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 15:45:02 from 65.127.208.182

Great work, Paul! You only beat me by an hour, 34 minutes... I'm in awe of anyone who can run a 2:20 (or 3:20 for that matter). Loved Logan, loved the course and the race. Just wish my legs had been up to it.

From Dave S on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 18:32:31 from 4.254.222.93

Great race! congrats on the win. I always enjoy ready your race reports. I'm sure you would have come in under 2:20 again if not for the distraction from the missed turn and the extra 1/2 block you had to run. Good luck in Colorado. We'll miss having you around at the local races.

From Dan on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 21:56:48 from 24.209.83.20

Great win Paul, way to keep it together with all the craziness. I hope the move turns out to be a blessing.

From Superfly on Sun, Sep 18, 2011 at 23:52:46 from 74.211.21.81

Not at all what I was expecting. Yes the win but wrong turn, rain, no tailwind, extra distance and still a 2:20! Wow. Wish the day would have been better for ya to leave TOU with but still a great job.

From RAD on Mon, Sep 19, 2011 at 19:33:42 from 76.27.16.189

awesome race Paul! Nice to give props to the aid station dude, that IS going above and beyond.

I'm just in complete awe, way to kick it in and finish strong despite the crazy mis-turn. Especially glad it didn't cost you $1500!!

From Rachelle on Mon, Sep 19, 2011 at 22:47:46 from 66.7.127.115

Wow amazing!! Congrats.

From James on Mon, Sep 19, 2011 at 23:39:13 from 174.23.151.189

Wish I could have been there to see it!

From Holt on Tue, Sep 20, 2011 at 10:39:10 from 204.113.55.41

Nice job on the "send off" race. Congrats on the win, holding it together in a weird situation, and just being an all around great guy!

From Little Bad Legs on Sat, Sep 24, 2011 at 21:34:20 from 68.186.75.3

Great race Paul. I wish we could have pushed you more but you had a pretty sizable lead after the first 20 seconds!

It was good to finally meet you in person although it would have been nice to talk a bit longer after the race. So it goes--post race is always a bit chaotic.

From Sasha Pachev on Mon, Sep 26, 2011 at 20:27:06 from 192.168.1.1

Congratulations on the win, a very good time for the conditions, running alone, and the wrong turn mess-up.

From HerrimanBOLT on Thu, Oct 06, 2011 at 00:35:51 from 67.177.15.199

Great Job paul is that your PR for this course? Do you remember me from Top of Utah Camp? I was the only kid their to ever break 10 in a 2 mile.

From Tyler on Thu, Oct 06, 2011 at 12:29:33 from 140.160.191.103

Amazing race, Paul. Loved the writeup, as always.

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