Hershey Half Race Report

Coming in we figured we'd be slower than last year (I ran with my friend Russ). We started out at a nice pace (in the 10:0X to 9:5X range). We picked it up for the middle miles (probably too fast of a pick-up into the 9:0X range). At one point I needed to visit the PP and told Russ to head on. I caught up after a bit (had an 8:38 mile for that part). We slowed a bit after that and cruised in with some 9:3X miles til the end. We did a sprint at the end like last year, but it wasn't as fast. Last year's time was 2:05:42. Even with a lack of training compared to last year for Russ we cruised in at 2:04:39!! 1:03 faster than last year! We had a great time! We took advantage of the free Hershey Park tickets and hit some coasters the night before. Great time overall! My sciatic was killing my left butt cheek. I'm thinking extra pressure from the iFitness belt might be causing issues to worsen there as I had issues hit harder during the 20 mile run I wore it for a few weeks back.

Now for some pics!
We missed the 13.1 mile marker as we were driving in, so I got this one:


















We got this cool sticker in our swag bag (it's in chocolate brown, too...I might look for a magnet to attach it to):


















Right before the start:


















So, I made sure I got this one while running! 10.9 Woohoo!!


















A self-portrait during the race:


















Russ during the race...it wasn't that hot, but he still looks like he's melting:


















Finisher's Medal:


















Oh, if you know anyone who is looking for their first Half (or you are) and you live within a couple hours (we had a good experience with Days Inn) I'd say go for this one! Nice course, somewhat challenging, ton of support in the number of helpers, aid stations (water, Gatorade, portapotties & chocolate at 1), freebies, great looking finishers award and the community really comes out, too as well as pacers (new for this year).