Sun 9/15 - AM 70 minutes incl. 5k road race

Thought I might slip under the radar for a prize money slot at this conveniently located race based on past years' results and the fact that this fell on the same day as a grand prix race. Turns out I wasn't alone in thinking this as the final money slot went about 90 seconds faster than last year. Realized upon getting to the starting line after doing the course as a warmup along with a full set of drills that there would be no filthy lucre for me. Furthermore with old pal Titus on the scene it was clear I'd probably have to bust my ass just to win the age group consolation prize. Recalibrated my expectations and settled in to as fast a rhythm as I felt sustainable, tried to crack a possible competitor for the old fart crown going up Fayerweather and nearly cracked myself instead. Spent most of the second half of the race maintaining contact before making an audacious pass just around 3 miles or so (no splits on the course). This move didn't stick and I was passed and gapped in short order. Stuck it out almost to the line but when it was clear I wasn't climbing back in I packed it in with a bit over 50m left. Thankfully, still enough for the age group prize. While nothing spectacular, the time was acceptable in my beleaguered state what with the sore leg and ongoing inability to get to bed before 11 PM no matter what the day's activities are. Cooldown came in two stages, an easy mile on the track soon after finishing and a very easy lap around Fresh Pond well after that. In between was one of the better post-race feeds I've been to in a while, nothing compared to the halcyon days of the Ro-Jack's 5 miler but still free goodies in copious quantities. Sunny, crisp dry morning with barely any breeze, very nice day to be out.