Frank is Back at the National!

Frank, Dave, and myself all entered the National Half Marathon on Saturday. While Rocky Mount was enjoying the low 80s and sunshine, we had a cold, cloudy, and rainy morning. Starting temps were just below 50. . . perfect weather for a race!

Most of you know Frank has struggled through some injuries during and after our fall marathon training. Over the past two months his running has picked up, and things were feeling good. He sheepishly entered the National Half Marathon feeling like he wasn't taking on a real challenge. He had hoped to be under 2:30. Turns out this was not a problem at all, as he finished in 2:17 setting a new PR! Okay, to be fair this was his only half marathon, but never-the-less a great job!

Dave and I ran every step of the race together. In the early miles I think Dave was feeling the effects of a long day in the car from Friday, and sleeping on one of his sons chopsticks in bed. Before long, we both settled into a good pace. Beginning with mile nine, our pace got progressively faster as Dave pulled me along. We ended up with negative splits despite the late race hills. Both of us set PRs of 1:41. Also of note, Dave impressed by finishing 19th in his age group!

The National lacks the excitement of the Marine Corp, but if you are looking for a fun race that does not require a airline ride to reach, you should consider this one next year. In it's second year it doubled in size, and is well on it's way to be a favorite on the east coast.

By the way, Michael Wardian won the race, just one week after finishing 3rd at the Shamrock. Not too shabby!