I was nervous going into this race because my training had totally derailed over the last 6-8 weeks and it was going to be a hot and sunny day in Vancouver. But while I didn't get anywhere my best time (nor was I expecting to), I had a great time and I'm glad I raced. The course was beautiful, especially coming through UBC and looking out at the water. The first half wasn't so bad for the heat as it was frequently shaded by trees, but I really hit the wall and the heat during the second half. Some of the hills by Jericho Beach and especially Burrard Bridge totally killed me, and I had severe abdominal cramping during the downhills so that wasn't such a good time.

One thing that I would have liked was more water stations, given the heat. That would've helped a lot in the latter half of the course, when the heat was worse, less shade, and obviously more fatigue.

But I survived! 2:02:55. Eleven minutes slower than my PB but this race was more about finishing injury-free and enjoying the journey. Mission accomplished.