11/9/2024

REVS 22K

Elyria, Ohio

Brittany Kiehl

Finish Time:  2:51:37

Overall Place:  84th Place / 84

Division Place:  3rd Place / 5

Race Recap By Brittany Kiehl:

So many words and feelings about this race…

On any given day, approximately 17 veterans commit suicide. This race supports the cause of putting an end to this horrible scourge afflicting our veterans, their families, and communities. I’m so thankful I was able to be apart of it.

Going into the race, I knew there was a 3 hour cutoff. I knew that my pace would be just under the allotted time. They started 10 minutes late, which made me nervous because I knew I would need that extra time. Going into the first loop, I felt so strong, and there were about 10 people behind me. So I figured I should be okay with my time. I couldn’t believe how good I felt. Going into the second loop, I suddenly realized I was the last one. (I am not sure if they made the other people turn around.) My heart sank, and I wasn’t sure if they’d cut me off too. I felt like I was keeping a good pace. And I had even PRd my previous 10K time. There were two guys rucking it in front of me, so I tried to stay just behind them. Those guys were so encouraging, which helped push me through the last few miles when I wanted to quit. They were sweeping the course behind me, and I even had a cop car follow me in. That last mile going uphill was rough, but I finished and PRd my previous half marathon time. They told me I would receive my medal later because they didn’t have enough. So I had to give it back. They had food and drinks inside a nearby restaurant. However, my anxiety got the best of me because I didn’t know anyone, so I left. I also felt embarrassed that I was the last one. Found out later, I placed third in my age group, so fingers crossed, I can still pick up my award.
(Also, I was so bummed that the Floral Fox mobile coffee trailer said they’d be there until noon, but they left at 11am.)