I picked up a flier for this race last month — a fundraiser for Back on My Feet. There was still time to meet the early registration deadline — only $15! Support a great organization and run an affordable half marathon? I was in!

I only had a few weeks to prepare, but I was in OK shape. I had already run one nine-miler this year and had time for a couple 10s and an eight. I wasn’t expecting a fast race, I just wanted to run!

The course was on the NCR Trail, which is really beautiful. It’s a packed-dirt trail surrounded by trees, much of it runs along a river. I worried that the different surface might be a problem since I typically only run on asphalt.  We trained for our first marathon there a few times, and I remembered it being a bit tougher on the legs!

I woke up to a good forecast and 56 degrees. It looked like it was supposed to be a little cooler at the start, but I decided I’d be fine in a running skirt. I wore calf sleeves so there really wasn’t too much bare leg! I was also excited my Cupcake Marathon shirt arrived in time.

Unfortunately I neglected to check the weather where we would actually be racing. It was only 49 at the start, and I needed to add a layer.  My Cupcake shirt was hidden the whole race …

Oh well. I did get a few compliments on my skirt!

Anyway, back to the race. While a little chilly waiting at the start, it was fun chatting with my friends. I’ve gotten used to really big races, so it was nice doing such a low-key race for a change. My bib was number 18!

I didn’t have high expectations for this race, but it started out really well. I felt great the first five miles or so, but after that I felt myself slowing down. It seemed like this relatively flat trail started going ever-so-slightly uphill …

Yeah, well now I see why it felt like we were going uphill for most of the race!

The calf sleeves did their job and my lower legs felt great, but I sure could have used some compression shorts! Ouch.

I was definitely feeling it after eight or so miles. I could feel myself slowing down and my form suffering — not that it’s that great to begin with! I’d pick up my feet and focus, and actually it felt better. I was able to  pick up the pace.

A  little.

I’m still happy with my unofficial result. Still managed to sneak in under 10-minute miles!

Post-race there was a nice selection of fruit, bagels and snacks.  They also kept the hot coffee flowing — all the better to fill the travel mugs we got instead of T-shirts or medals. We also got a reusable grocery bag as our goodie bag, and they had lots of great random prizes. I won a hat and a $15 RoadID gift certificate!

Sure it was small, and the crowd support was minimal. But the race organizers were energetic and the volunteers cheered everybody on. I saw a lot of support for the BOMF participants. Everyone was having a great time!

There was a lot of time running by myself. Enjoying perfect weather. Surrounded by lovely views.

And that was awesome.