Friday, March 23, 2012

Eastern States 2012 Preview

Easily the windiest race of the year (Hyannis is likely second), the (typically) 3-state run is a challenging midpoint race that bridges the Hyannis and Sugarloaf Marathon most years.  Even if I don't excel at the race, it's a necessary linchpin to the long-distance racing season.

The direction of the wind is always important.  The day chooses one direction and sticks with it.  If it's at my back, I'll have an easy day, and if it's in my face...let's just say that all sorts of fun will happen.

2009 - 2:26:53 - 103 overall - 49 age group
2010 - 2:25:56 - 53 overall - 31 age group
2011 - 2:30:33 - 65 overall - 36 age group

The times I'm up against aren't difficult to beat with most other courses - in fact I have beaten 2011's time in most 20-mile splits of marathons - but weather will play a very major factor and why this race is particularly challenging.

Temperatures are expected to be around 50 degrees with light rain.  So far they're not expecting a lot of wind but that could change.  We'll see what Sunday brings.