Nancy Switzler

2017 REVEL Big Cottonwood Half Marathon
Published: Sept. 10, 2017, 6:52 a.m.
  1. Overall Rating

    5/5 Stars

  2. Describe your race day.

    My biggest mistake was pre-race in that the forecast was for temperatures at the beginning in the 50s. This was perfect for running, not so much for waiting to start and I didn't bring enough warm clothing. Doing a warmup run in the dark, with traffic still on the highway was a bit scary. I think the hardest part of the race was the last 5k because my legs were pretty exhausted. One suggestion: starting waves based on pace. The most frustrating, and slowest, mile was the first because of trying to navigate through so many slower runners. Great race overall.

  3. Did you PR?

    I originally signed up the the full as my 3rd attempt at a BQ this year. I qualified in May so went down to the half at this race. I had a 7 minute PR in my half marathon yesterday and came in 8th my division!

  4. How would you describe the course?

    The course was beautiful! We drove it the day before so I was able to enjoy it twice. The steep grade made for interesting running...my coach had said "don't go too fast." How do you not go too fast with that grade?

  5. Tell us about your training.

    I trained on hills near my home, and ran a downhill marathon in May, but still wasn't prepared for the grade. Because I do regular strength training my quads were fine during the race. I discovered that below the knee wasn't nearly as strong and so I'd suggest more strength and endurance to build calves and shins.

  6. What advice would you give future runners?

    Since you have a drop bag, take advantage of it and bring warm clothing even if you don't think you'll need it.

  7. What fun things did you do in the area before or after the race?

    We came from Oxnard, CA (coast, north of Los Angeles) stayed in Park City for a few days making it a nice weekend.

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