This was a majorly disappointing race for me. I'm a huge fan of the long course races, and was looking forward to doing three Half IMs after a terrific first Ironman race last year. I did this race in 2004, and it was my best Half IM race yet. After a really good swim, I was able to hold nearly 22 mph on the bike, and I actually PRed my stand alone half marathon time.
This year was exactly the opposite. After moving to Denver in August 2004, I thought the altitude training would have me ready for another PR. But, after good, dedicated winter training, I pretty much lost interest in my workouts starting in April. Although I did most of them, I think my lackluster attention to detail made them mostly "junk" miles, instead of good, focused training.
St. Louis was really hot this year. Although the race was 3 weeks later last, it was a much cooler day in 2004. After a 33 minute 1.2 mile swim, I had a good transition, and jumped on my bike ready to tackle the new 2 loop, 56 mile bike course.
Everything was great until about 20 miles in. Suddenly, I had terrible spasms in my back, and I lost all power in my legs. I managed another 8 miles, and decided to call it a day. No way would I be able to finish the bike, let alone run a half marathon after that.
So, my day ended early, and I watched the other competitors finish their races. I'm glad I didn't push it, but I REALLY hate DNF'ing a race.
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