I knew I was great shape as I had run 3:36 for 1500, and 7:39 for 3k in Monaco. Also, training and health had been good, running 4x1200 (400) 3:07, 3:09, 3:09 and 3:09 in 85 degree heat a few weeks before the event in Chicago.
I focused on thta Belin would be in the 50's and I would have people to pace and run with. We were sub 8 at 3k, but then the rabbits dropped out. I thought about taking the lead, only to keep the pace going so I could get a PR from age 23 (1319), but was to more concerened about paying the price and missing the chance to PR at age 34. So I sat.
Everyone in the lead pack also thought the same, and I was 9th at the bell lap. Had a lot left, running 57 seonds for the last circuit to run 1315.86 PR.
What I learned:
1. From earlier years of racing - I knew I was in great shape, and was excited to see what I could run.
2. Be confident when you have the opportunity to run your pace, even if only for a lap before slipping baak into the slipstream of the pack
3. As much as I enjoyed the process of training, the end result affirms the process is correct.
4. PR's run at 9pm = no sleep until the flight takes off the next morning - the adrenaline is too high.
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