My dreams of a sub 4 hour marathon were smashed again. But, I came a lot closer on what was an amazing day in downtown Long Beach. The weather was perfect! Clear, with a nice cool breeze. The course is spectacular with over half of the race routed along the coastline. The course goes inland for about 8 miles or so and goes through CSULB's campus, where there are plenty of college students to cheer you on through some increasingly rough miles.
I stayed on (or a minute or two ahead) of my planned pace through mile 22. I slowed a bit, but not too badly, and finished 4:07:51. I was able to keep my heart rate under control and didn't feel like I bonked. I just couldn't quite stay on pace. I PR'd by over 13 minutes so I feel like my training has been effective. I will just have to wait till the LA Marathon to break 4 hours.
Paul
