Race Report - Napa Valley Marathon

The 2009 Napa Valley Marathon took place last Sunday, March 1st. I think it was the most scenic course I have run. The course starts in the town of Calistoga CA. It is a point to point course we needed to get to the buses by 6:00 to make the 7:30 start. After going to large marathons like Portland and Boston, Napa was a refreshing change. The small size of the marathon made some nice touches available. You can drop off your sports drink at the start to be transported to later stops – something that is normally reserved only for elite runners. Bag drop off was right next to the start with a minimal line. This lets you keep warm to the last minute. The marathon provided a nice backpack filled with swag at the expo that doubled as your warm up transport bag. It really is nice.
One the race started, we were treated to amazing views of the napa vineyards. Rolling hills kept the course interesting without getting too large. The course is a 400ft net downhill. This looks great on paper but somehow the uphills always seem to outnumber the downhills. That being said, it is a very fast course. I prefer the hills to a dead flat course to give muscle groups a break.
My goal of breaking 3:00 went well for the first half. I was right on my splits. After 14 miles or so, I tried to relax and not push too hard. I think that was the right think to do since as mile 18, I could tell that I was not going to make the finish on pace. The energy level just started to plummet telling me that I was on the verge of bonking.
I guess I just did not put in enough miles before the race. Winter can be a tough time to train. I was able to finish the race running. I think I was at an 8:30 mile for the last couple. Fortunately, I was not too invested. I am happy with my finish time of 3:12. I think it will give me the foundation I need for my next marathon, Boston 2009. Now, I just have to figure out the training schedule between now and then. I think 1 20 miler should do it with so good quality workout.