Heading into CM15, I wasn't really sure what to expect. I was less than a month removed from Ironman Wisconsin, and although my legs felt fresh, I didn't know if I could push them through this race. I planned to settle in around the 3:05 group and see what happened. As luck would have it, my nerves got the best of me and I ended up shoulder to shoulder with Sascha (best running bro) right ahead of the 3:00 pace group. In my head, I thought there was a chance, and would feel better about the race if I went for it. I could always drop back if I wasn't feeling it.
We headed out a little hot, with our first 5k about 10sec under pace goal. We kept talking back and forth about slowing but I'm not sure if it actually happened, or if we were just observing that it wasn't happening. Around mile 8, we ran into our buddy Matt who was using this race as a prep for NYC. He said he'd pace us through the end. Our splits over the next 30k were all within 3sec of goal and while we were both thinking it, but not talking about it, we thought sub3 was a realistic goal. Around 19 I started tightening up a bit, but knew if I could push through for 7 more miles, it would all be worth it. We made the turn on to Mich Ave and with less than 3 miles to go, this dream was about to become a reality. I slowed a bit heading to the last mile, but knew I had plenty of time to cross the line. As I came around the Columbus corner, I thought about this entire season, all the struggles, triumphs, training, friendships...all wrapped into the last crazy 9 months. I slowed as a crossed the line, throwing my arms in the air, trying to savor every moment. 2:57:25. Still can't believe it 3 days later. I couldn't have gotten there without Matt and Sascha - each of us pushing one another til the end.
This race will always be something special. It's in my city, and one of the best organized races in the world. If you haven't, come run Chicago. You won't be disappointed. From a flawlessly run expo, to great race management, you're bound to have the best prerace and raceday experience you can!!