On March 1, I paced the Publix Atlanta half marathon. This year Publix was the same weekend as the Olympic Marathon Trials. The race was held earlier than in previous years and is around St. Patrick's Day. I have run this race many times, but was my year as a pacer.
Due to being part of America's Marathon weekend, Publix had a larger expo than in previous years. The expo was held at the Georgia World Congress Center. Packet pick up was quick and easy. There were many vendors and a beautiful #runningcityusa prop for the runners to write encouraging words.
As a member of the pace team, we spoke to participants and encouraged them to run with us at the expo. I co-paced the 3:00 hour group. We decided to run 30:30 intervals to meet the time goal.
Race Day
While Publix is a challenging course, it usually has great weather as a consolation prize. I enjoy running through each neighborhood and historic spots: MLK Center, Little 5 Points, Carter Center, VA Highlands, Piedmont Park, and Georgia Tech (my alma mater). I enjoyed running with our group. They had amazing energy and were very talkative. Thankfully, we met our time goal with our intervals.
The medal this year was super cute and unique. I can say this was one of my best years of running Publix. I am sure I will be back next year for another 13.1 mile trip over all the ATL hills. I am proud of all the finishers.