REVEL Rockies

Virginia Thomas

2017 REVEL Rockies Marathon
Published: June 11, 2017, 9:24 p.m.

Overall Rating

5/5 Stars
Describe your race day.

It was cooler than forecasted and overcast until mile 20, making for perfect conditions! Felt good and just rolled with the downhill, which put me ahead of pace. Because of the continued downhill at the end, I surpassed my goal time and felt great! Beautiful scenery in the beginning and end!
Did you PR?

Yes, by 8 minutes and got a solid BQ. I chose this course because my BQ from another marathon 5 weeks ago was only by 90 seconds, so I wanted a bigger cushion to guarantee I could actually register for Boston!
How would you describe the course?

Steady downhill until the town of Evergreen, then 4 or so rolling hills followed by another steep downhill. It mellows our from Kittredge to Ideldale along the river, but then a fast 4 final miles.
Tell us about your training.

Hanson's method leading up to a May marathon, then just maintaining fitness til the Revel. Don't forget it starts at 10,000ft, which even Coloradans might feel.
What advice would you give future runners?

I felt the altitude some at the beginning despite being from Ft Collins, so don't discount that. But it's beautiful and a quick course with frequent, great water stops, so enjoy!
What fun things did you do in the area before or after the race?

Margarita on the rooftop patio of a restaurant in Morrison!