My one planned run today was scrubbed by a surprise lunch meeting, but I didn't mind. It looks like I'm going into Gasparilla with a serious taper, which is probably a Good Thing.
There are many good and great races in Tampa Bay, but Gasparilla is the one event that sticks out. The 15k on Saturday is the race with history- between men and women the world record was set on the course five times in the early 80s. Gradually the elite prize money went away and was replaced by a very solid local purse for top 5 area finishers ($2000 for first place). So everyone tends to come out of the woodwork for this race.
Last year, both local and elite prize money was introduced for the half-marathon as well. Ryan Vail was the winner, with 3 other men under 1:05.
As exciting as it would be to run the half with nationally-known runners, I came back to the 15k again this year. Partially because of the tradition - and simply - there is a half marathon staged almost every week around here in Jan and Feb.
I managed to snag the 5th local spot last year, which was due at least in part to a softer field. This year looks to be tougher, with around a dozen guys who can contend for a top 5 spot. From what I can tell, only the first spot is automatic. Jon Mott, who recently ran heartbreakingly close in Houston to the OTQ (2:18:12), can tempo the race and win easily.
Irrespective of place, I'm just looking forward to getting out hard. Most of the guys know each other, and it's fun to run with and against them, and this is the #1 chance to do it during the year.
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