California

This inaugural event faced several obstacles: Balboa Park's 35-minute delayed start, the first couple of water stations depleted, sponsors who failed to provide adequate supplies. At least the weather cooperated, clear and lovely at the outset. This would creep up into the mid-70's by mid-day.

By m7 I almost wanted to drop out due to sock problems and stump pain. Persistent dry mouth after halfway troubled me; by m16–17 I already felt the fatigue I normally get at m21–23. Mind-body link went fuzzy. Running felt easier but I found it hard to start back into it. Mile 24 (I think) brought a very unwelcome climb up and then down a pedestrian bridge constructed for the event.