I caught the last half hour of the marathon online today. Even though it seemed inevitable for the last several miles of the race it was still heartbreaking to watch Kara Goucher being passed in the final stretch. I think she got it wrong tactically, pulling the lead pack for many miles taking the head-wind while they tucked in behind her. Despite her 10,000m speed she didn't have the kick in the end. But it was only her second marathon so I've no doubt her best races are yet to come. In her own words:
“I felt great, I knew I was going to finish strongly. The pain did not set in until I finished and my heart was totally broken. I just didn’t have it at the end.”
The men's finish was less dramatic but Ryan Hall deserves great credit for the way he refused to give up and fought his way to the 3rd place spot.
I was equally impressed by Colleen S. De Reuck - a 45yr old with a 21mth old daugher - she proved her mettle once again to finish in 8th place.
12 comments:
I plan on using a similar strategy this weekend. I'll be the one huddling behind you for the majority of the race...before making my move for the beer afterwards.
So... you're going to 'run like a girl'? Cool. I'm guessing you drink beer like a girl too.
Be sure not to be looking over your shoulder too much, or you'll miss the hitman waiting in the woods just past the first aid station.
And yes, I do drink beer like a girl.
ha ha. oh this promises to be quite a day. on a serious note I hope the heel is doing ok. i really hate passing injured runners.
absolutely hilarious. I appreciate your 'serious' tone.
just an FYI, too, that on your 'This Week' item on the sidebar, Thursday is only listed as a "4M." I think you forgot the "2" in front of it.
The Kenyan women had the advantage of being able to use team tactics, something Kara could use - if the U.S. ever had TWO decent runners at the same time.
Hey Nic and Helen: if this old guy with 150 miles of races on him already this year beats anyone at Chippewa, they should hang their heads in shame. Nic should have plenty of practice already.
Before someone else points it out - there was one Kenyan and one Ethiopian working together, not two Kenyans.
Man! Everyone's after me! Damn Gophers!
In all seriousness, I'm excited to pick your brain while spending some time on the trails with you!
And I won't rub it in while I pull away.
KIDDING!
Helen, it was a blast! You're right--next stop Grandma's! Will you be staying up there Saturday night also? If so, Beer's on me!
By the way, my security word to enter that last post was "ecoli." I hope that isn't a bad omen considering I was filling up my water bottle out of the lakes we ran past. I couldn't waste the time at the aid stations while trying to catch you!
Classic! Just don't plan any trips to Mexico between now and June 20th and you should be fine! Yes, indeed I will be staying up Saturday night - good plan!
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