Run race (Rocky Raccoon) 17:30:00 [3] 80.0 mi (13:07 / mi) +4400ft 12:29 / mi
slept:6.0 shoes: Altra Superior 2.0
First DNF
Started well, first two 20-mile loops (3:32, 3:26) just tried to be breathing comfortably through my nose, ran everything - still probably too fast - legs feeling a little fatigue and had random tight/sore spots - arches, knees, calves - but nothing persisted, except right hip/IT band, which hasn't bothered me for years and took me by surprise. Decided to walk up hills for third loop, still feeling fine, little more tired, but that's to be expected! (~4:15) Hoped to have a similar fourth loop, but half way through, right hip was really getting angry and my downhill running deteriorated rapidly. Last 8 miles of the loop was walking - figured I could walk the rest if needed. Final mile+ of the loop was barely inching along, literally pulling my right leg up over any step higher than ~2", and lots of sniveling - realizing I couldn't go another 20 miles like this. Right hip was just stuck. (~6:15) Checked in with the medical tent, they didn't offer me anything besides rest, which was not enough to get me out for another 20 miles, so called it quits.
Positives: minimal chafing, stomach great with gels, fruit, and bars, then a little mashed potatoes and broth after dark, energy OK, I needed an ego check
Negatives: muscles, fascia, whatever didn't hold up, wasn't even able to walk at the end - not enough training miles? not enough shoe support? too aggressive to start? Maybe some stretching or something during the race would have helped?