The game is on!

So my half-marathon was the second round of the San Jose Hat Trick (Almaden 10k, R&R Half Marathon, Silicon Valley Marathon). They sent out an email announcing the top 5 after this round, and guess what? I'm not on it! But it appears that I'm am _sixth_. I'm behind the #5 guy by 3 minutes and 9 seconds.

Checking his recent results, it looks like his marathon PR is 3:45, which was on the same upcoming course. He averages around 4.

So I put in my half-marathon time (which is longer than his half-marathon time) into a 4 second rule calculator, and get an estimated time of 3:22. My only marathon was at the end of July, where I did 4:20. Do I believe the 4 second calculator, and attempt a 3:30 marathon? I had legs after my half-marathon, didn't feel like I was going all out. I also believe my 4:20 had a lot to do with electrolyte imbalance, and will plan to manage it better. I'm feeling much better prepared, in all. I'm curious what other experiences people have had with the four second rule.

I'm excited though! Now I have someone to beat, it's like I'm really competing competitively! Scoping out, analyzing the opponents, coming up with strategies, woohoo!

They haven't announced the top 5 prize, but last year it was luxury suite box viewing of a Sharks game.