Tag Archive for: downhill to downtown

PRs Prevail at Windy 3M Half Marathon

The 23rd Annual 3M Half Marathon, produced by High Five Events, endured high, gusty winds on Sunday, January 22nd. The fierce winds didn’t stop the elite men and women from putting in some speedy times or deter hundreds of participants from PRing on one of the nation’s faster half marathon courses.

Happy finishers.

More than 6300 participants registered for the race also known as Downhill to Downtown. Other than the forecasted high winds, the weather was perfect for running. Runners toed the start line at 7:30 a.m. and begin their race to the Texas State Capitol. Navigating their way downtown, runners enjoyed a fully supported course, complete with eight fully stocked aid stations featuring nuun hydration, a CLIF Bar CLIF Zone, and thousands of cheering spectators with hilarious signs.

“I had heard many great things about Downhill to Downtown and am thrilled at the outcome of my first race on this course,” said Samantha Stubbs, who PR’ed along with hundreds of other runners. “This event was very organized, well-supported, and the volunteers were beyond amazing.”

Lauren Smith Stroud (1:17:07) was the overall female winner; with Nora Colligan (1:17:27) and Brooke Slayman (1:18:03) finishing second and third. The top three female Master’s finishers were Chris Kimbrough (1:23:00), Tammy Bogle (1:25:07), and Christina Hughes Babb (1:29:06).

2017 3M Half Marathon Male Champion, Mark Pinales.

Mark Pinales (1:06:51) crossed the finish line first. Adam Waldum (1:08:49) and Daniel Glaz (1:09:03) completed the overall men’s field, respectively. The male Master’s finishing in the top three consisted of: Kevin Kimbell (1:15:55), Hernan Rozemburg (1:16:06), Steven Hernandez (1:16:45).

“The race was much windier than expected, but it was amazing running with so many of the local guys,” said overall champ, Mark Pinales. “I’m humbled to take the win in my hometown. This race will be another crucial piece of the puzzle leading up to the Austin Marathon.”

Participants can see their results on the website and continue to share their amazing experiences on the 3M Half Marathon’s social media channel. For those planning ahead to January 21, 2018, next year’s registration is open and set at the low price of $65. This amazing deal will be available until January 25th. Runners can find their race day photos on Marathonfoto.com. Search for ‘3M Half Marathon 2017’ and enter your last name or bib number.

Team CBS Austin.

The 3M Half Marathon boasts one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the country and will open registration for 2018 on Monday, January, 23rd. Runners will enjoy a point-to-point course with mostly downhill running that showcases some of Austin’s finest locations. Starting in north Austin and finishing in front of the Texas State Capitol, runners will appreciate a 306’ net elevation drop.

Make sure to watch us in the news. Who knows, you might be in the segment!

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An Athlete’s Perspective – Issue 2

An Athlete’s Perspective is a blog series of event and/or training experiences written firsthand by the athlete themselves. An Athlete’s Perspective is a completely unscripted and raw look into the mind and daily life of an athlete as they prepare for their next race. Readers will discover training regimens, eating tips, gear recommendations, and an uncut perspective into the lives of people like you and me.

My Return to Austin

Preparing for Downhill to Downtown

by: Becki Spellman

2nd place 2008 Austin Marathon (2:43:43).

I can not wait to arrive in Austin! The city holds a special place in my heart. In 2008 I begged my way into the Austin Marathon as an elite. It was my first marathon, and while I was unsure about my ability over the distance, I wanted to compete well to thank John Conley, the race director at the time, for the opportunity.  That day, I qualified for the 2008 Olympic Marathon Trials.

I have since gone on to have nine successful years of running, qualifying for the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Marathon Trials. And it all started on the streets of Austin. If I hadn’t already adored Austin for its quirky, fun loving vibe, that race would have made me love it for sure. So coming back on January 22nd is very exciting for me; I am hoping Austin has a little magic left in store for me! I know I will pour my heart out on the course, take some chances, and hopefully come home with a PR!

Training has gone well, I have gone through a different cycle than I have in the past. I came out of the fall very strong, having run four marathons in 21 months, and wanted to work on some speedier things. So I made up my mind to come into the 3M Half under-cooked on the mileage side with more speed in my legs. I have averaged between 60-70 miles per week and have had some of the faster tempo runs I have been able to do in years.

2016 Olympic Marathon Trials (2:44:44).

I am eager to put my mental and physical strength to the test and see what I am currently capable of. As the nerves start settling in over the coming weeks, I will remind myself of the opportunity. It’s a privilege to be able to race and test my limits. I will remind myself of all the times I wanted to back down in training but instead told myself, “No one is going to hand this to you. You do the work, you meet your goals.” I have had to tell myself that countless times, and I am stronger for it. I coming into the 3M Half Marathon with hopes of a new PR (under 1:16:05). I know it will be a fun weekend, full of amazing people, an awesome race, and all in a place that I love!

To everyone racing, enjoy celebrating your hard work!  When the race gets tough, remember you are tougher! Good luck on race day! I am so excited to chase down goals alongside you!

Race Guards to Patrol the 3M Half Marathon Course

High Five Events is pleased to announce the partnership between Race Guards and the 2017 3M Half Marathon. The partnership will provide participants with an extra layer of comfort knowing there will be trained individuals on course should any medical issues arise in between the course’s eight aid stations.

“Ensuring our participants are safe for the entire race is imperative,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “Everyone knows about the amazing products made by 3M and we’re proud to highlight the fact that the certified Race Guards will have 3M ACE/Nexcare products at their disposal.”

Race Guards, an organization based out of San Diego, California, provides in-race first aid for endurance events throughout the country. Race Guards is comprised of volunteers trained in CPR, AED and First Aid. They will be easily identifiable on course by their bright jerseys. Race Guards will be fully stocked with first aid supplies and have a direct line to medical personnel. They will also showcase 3M ACE/Nexcare products at their expo booth.

“Race Guards’ title sponsor is 3M products including ACE, FUTURO and Nexcare, thus it makes a lot of sense for Race Guards to partner with the 3M Half Marathon,” said Janice Penrose, President of Race Guards. “Our team uses these 3M products out on the course and we look forward to helping 3M Half Marathon participants have the best possible race experience.”

The 3M Half Marathon boasts one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the country and will celebrate its 23rd year running in 2017. Runners will enjoy a point-to-point course with mostly downhill running that showcases some of Austin’s finest locations. Starting in north Austin and finishing in front of the Texas State Capitol, runners will appreciate a 306’ net elevation drop. Participants can register and book their hotel on the website.

About Race Guards: Race Guards was founded in 2012 with the mission to “give back’ to running and endurance events by providing in-race first aid from start to finish. Race Guards is comprised of volunteer endurance athletes trained in CPR, AED and First Aid who are committed to assisting race participants with any medical or physical support needs. Sponsored by ACE_Brand/Nexcare, Race Guards run the entire race – at all different paces — stocked with first aid supplies. Race Guards work directly with the race medical staff to provide an extra layer of medical support on race day. For more information on Race Guards visit www.raceguards.org.