@ CLC Invite

Well, we finally were given the opportunity to enjoy some GREAT weather and solid competition. Our 4X800 started strong with Liana earning a PR of 2:44. Unfortunately, her time was not enough to keep us in contact with the pack.  This left Jo with motivation to try to recapture the pack for her first lap (which was a speedy 76), but no drive for her second.  Janelle suffered from the same problem and did not look as crisp as expected.  After one solid lap, I asked Julia to save some juice for her open 800.   Overall, our team time is not yet where it needs to be.  We need to find a way to push harder--to stay in the mix, or to get back into it. That baton needs to mean something more than just a way to hand off...it needs to symbolize maximum effort for one's teammates.  All that being said, this crew earned 6th place and a point for the team, AND we are faster than last year.  With the right mindset, we will continue to improve.  :)

In the 3200, our two racers started strong, but then fell into no man's land.  Although Shayla earned an LPR of 13:26, and Karyn ran an SPR of 13:18, I know that they are both more fit than those numbers indicate.  I am yearning for the same grit that Shayla displayed at Carthage--with their current fitness and THAT type of racing, I know that some serious PRs will occur. 

The performances by the twins in the open 800 made my night! Janelle, unsatisfied with her split in the 4X800, ran a gutsy race. She got out fast with a great split of 77, and closed with guts.  Her racing earned her a new LPR of 2:42!  Not to be outdone by her sis, Julia followed the same blueprint.  She got out hard with the pack, running a speedy 73 split.  She ran sub 80 for her second split as well, earning a new LPR of 2:31!  One lesson to learn from her last 100 meters is to beware of drifting wide--it allowed her competitor to pass her on the inside.  While this can be a good tactic to keep a challenger on the outside from passing, it can be difficult to hear someone coming on the inside.  Food for thought!

In the 1600, Jo and Lainey got out hard and were on pace to go sub 6:00 at the 800 mark.  I was pleased to see them working in tandem and pressing the pace!  Laps 3 & 4 showed me that we still need work on dealing with the pain of racing.  Our workout on Wednesday will reflect that need, so no fear!  :)  

Our day was not done after the mile.  Julia ran a courageous 3rd race in the varsity 4X400.  Her lead leg was the fastest of the relay--a speedy 66!  Her service to the team is making her faster in her other races...a great lesson to learn.  When you lose yourself in serving the team, each step feels a little easier.  

​Overall, a good effort on a beautiful night from our crew.  Proud of you all!  :)