I'm running the Grand Rapids (MI) marathon on Sunday. On a perfect day I think I'm trained to run a 3:10 (BQ with room to spare). Sunday there is supposed to be a 20mph headwind for the first 1/2 marathon, tailwind home.
Who has any experience running in windy conditions especially in regard to marathon pace groups?
My prediction is that the pace groups are going to get torn apart. There are 2 groups that I'm eyeing; 3hr and 3:15. I'm guessing the 3:15 will fall behind and never catch up. I'm guessing the same for the 3 hr group, which I would normally let go...but under the conditions, I'm considering "tucking in" and trying to hold on for the 1st half. Maybe get to half in 1:32 and then hopefully ride the wind home with some suffering but room for a 8 min pos. split.
What do you know? Blow up in spectacular fashion or outsmart the weather and preserve a BQ time in unfavorable conditions.
All I know for sure is that a solo effort, pushing for pretty, even splits is not happening on Sunday!
Thanks in advance!
Corey
Who has any experience running in windy conditions especially in regard to marathon pace groups?
My prediction is that the pace groups are going to get torn apart. There are 2 groups that I'm eyeing; 3hr and 3:15. I'm guessing the 3:15 will fall behind and never catch up. I'm guessing the same for the 3 hr group, which I would normally let go...but under the conditions, I'm considering "tucking in" and trying to hold on for the 1st half. Maybe get to half in 1:32 and then hopefully ride the wind home with some suffering but room for a 8 min pos. split.
What do you know? Blow up in spectacular fashion or outsmart the weather and preserve a BQ time in unfavorable conditions.
All I know for sure is that a solo effort, pushing for pretty, even splits is not happening on Sunday!
Thanks in advance!
Corey