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Bobby Porter
2018 REVEL Big Bear Half Marathon
Published: Oct. 15, 2018, 2:15 p.m. 
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Overall Rating
5/5 Stars
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Describe your race day.
My friends Kristin ( veteran of 120+ half marathons and multiple marathons ) and Bob ( 80 year old L.A. Marathon Legacy and veteran of 150+ marathons and Ultras, including 5 Boston Marathons ) carpooled with me to what we would later agree was one of the best events we have participated in. She was very excited and encouraged by her effort. He ran an Age Group course record of 2:11:11and I was 2/21 in 1:40:44 in the 65-69 A.G. I AM, however, questioning just how important going downstairs in my house truly is for the next few days!
The complete experience, including pre event correspondence with Anna, was professional, educated and worthy of sharing with our friends and teammates. We're looking forward to Mt. Charleston! I SHOULD be able to walk by then! Thank you, ALL, including the great volunteers! -
Did you PR?
I did not P.R. But I've been racing since 1967 and Father Time frowns upon P.R.s at this stage in life. It WAS, however, about 10 minutes faster than I expected! ( 1:40:44 ) Had I not cramped at mile 8, I would have easily gone sub 1:40. The goal was to see how well my 80 year old training buddy of 35+ years would handle a Revel "downhill" event. We will be trying to get hime to Boston one more time in Mt. Charleston as a result of his terrific 2:11 at Big Bear!
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How would you describe the course?
FAST, IF you don't break! Especially fast in the first three to four miles. Very scenic in the first half and friendly fans in the second half! Despite being a veteran of 51 years of racing, the course reminded me that sub 7 miles come at a price when you're 66! But, like childbirth, the pain will eventually go away and I'll likely be back for another go!
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Tell us about your training.
Do NOT underestimate the value of training on long downhill routes! I live in the hills and thought I would be well prepared. But the ease of running fast early in a race has it's price. The advice given to us prior to the event was spot on. Take it seriously. I would have been 3-4 minutes faster had I not cramped in the 8th mile. Patience is a virtue.
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What advice would you give future runners?
Read the previous comment AGAIN! Be prepared for any and all weather conditions. And, above all, HAVE FUN!
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What fun things did you do in the area before or after the race?
We're local So Cal runners and had about an hour drive to the busses. Pre race routine was, well, routine. Fortunately, the rain had just passed and the conditions were ideal. The trip home was pleasant and uneventful until I realized I lived in a two story house! What was said next need not be repeated here!
If you are looking for a high quality event and a very fast course, DO THIS ONE! But come prepared! You will not be disappointed.