Philipp Ponomarev

2017 REVEL Rockies Marathon
Published: June 12, 2017, 10:35 p.m.
  1. Overall Rating

    4/5 Stars

  2. Describe your race day.

    The most memorable part of race day were the conversations I had with fellow marathoners before and after the race. Everyone has a unique story about their running and racing aspirations. Everyone I encountered felt connected to each other. The sense of community was humbling.

  3. Did you PR?

    I had already qualified for Boston earlier this year, but I did set a PR by 13 minutes!

  4. How would you describe the course?

    The course is deceptive and brutal down the stretch. The first half is steeper than the second half, so the last 13 miles feel like a gradual uphill (not even mentioning the heartbreaking hills on miles 12-16).

  5. Tell us about your training.

    I was unable to train for downhill racing this year, so my training regimen was similar to regular marathon training. I averaged 50 miles per week, with varying speeds, terrains, shoes, and distances. I definitely paid for not doing any downhill training... I am writing this review the next day in bed. Every time I try to get up, walk, or use the stairs, my poor leg muscles scream at me.

  6. What advice would you give future runners?

    Train for downhill running! Find a long, steady hill, jog up, and race down as many times as you can. For the race: keep a steady pace for the first half, and make sure you are feeling comfortable and aren't working too hard, because the tough part comes around mile 12 when the course becomes less steep and some significant hills show up. The actual race starts right then, so if you overexerted for the first half, then you will be walking...a lot.

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

    I was staying with in-laws close to the bus pick up, so travel was not an issue. It was pretty early, so the only "fun" part about the start area was getting to know fellow runners. Best part of the finish area: beer. Oh, and of course high-fiving other finishers!

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