88 replies to this topic

[BTONE]

Just wondering if anyone knows when the entries will be available for this event?

Also, what is the course like - it looks pretty flat around the lake.

[allrounder]

it's a fastish course - my HM PB is on this course...it's not completely flat though...

entries are due to open "early Feb" so any day now I guess!

Edited by allrounder, 11 February 2009 - 02:09 PM.

[dmnz]

http://www.canberrar...p...index&id=11


Not familiar with the area but it can't be too bad running around the lake.  When they say path/bike trail does anyone know if that really just means hard concrete footpaths?

allrounder, on Feb 11 2009, 03:08 PM, said:

it's a fastish course - my HM PB is on this course...it's not completely flat though...

entries are due to open "early Feb" so any day now I guess!

[chisholm]

dmnz, on Mar 28 2009, 04:37 PM, said:

http://www.canberrar...p...index&id=11


Not familiar with the area but it can't be too bad running around the lake.  When they say path/bike trail does anyone know if that really just means hard concrete footpaths?

This was my first HM last year. From memory the first few kms are run on blocked-off roads, then it's all on the bike paths.  It's quite a scenic route, and whilst there were hills, it wasn't too bad.

I'd love to be doing it again this year but have spent months being a lazy sod on the couch. It's the first time in ages I really wish I had kept running. (I am back at it now but only up to 6km).

Good luck!

[dmnz]

chisholm, on Mar 28 2009, 06:07 PM, said:

This was my first HM last year. From memory the first few kms are run on blocked-off roads, then it's all on the bike paths.

So these bike paths...are they hard concrete narrow walkways or dirt path style?

[TechGirl]

Hmm.. as I start my new job in Canberra on May 18th, looks like I should add the Canberra HM to my running calendar.  I bet I'll really enjoy the cold conditions after 2 years in Brisvegas!  

TechGirl

[chisholm]

dmnz, on Mar 29 2009, 05:58 PM, said:

So these bike paths...are they hard concrete narrow walkways or dirt path style?

Hard, concrete and narrow!

[dmnz]

chisholm, on Mar 30 2009, 06:20 AM, said:

Hard, concrete and narrow!

damn! but tahnks for the info

i might give it a miss then.

think the glasshouse race is on that weekend...maybe hit that instead

[allrounder]

dmnz, on Mar 30 2009, 09:58 AM, said:

damn! but tahnks for the info

i might give it a miss then.

think the glasshouse race is on that weekend...maybe hit that instead

the paths are more like roads (asphalt) than concrete...concrete in a few places though...

[MikeMSM]

G'day TechGirl
Sounds like it might be you and I wandering about looking for the start line.
I'm flying in Saturday night, running Sunday and starting work Monday.
The weather here in sunny Perth as been a more pleasant than a cold morning in Canberra too.

What sort of times are people looking for?

Mike

[deadcat]

last year it was bitter waiting for the start.. so cold..
the course is on asphalt bike path mostly but not too narrow.. i don't remember any congestion except for the usual starting shambles..
as for times, i'm on a quest to break 80mins and although i've been off injured recently i'm pretty happy with how my training is going so i should be there or there abouts..

[TechGirl]

MikeMSM, on Apr 12 2009, 10:43 PM, said:

G'day TechGirl
Sounds like it might be you and I wandering about looking for the start line.
I'm flying in Saturday night, running Sunday and starting work Monday.
The weather here in sunny Perth as been a more pleasant than a cold morning in Canberra too.

What sort of times are people looking for?

Mike

Yep, we will be the ones shivering even more than the others. I will be moving down from Brisvegas, so it will seem a wee bit colder  . That said, I tend to run better in cold conditions, so all I am hoping for is a PB, around 1:40 would be nice.  I won't be quite as rushed as you Mike as I will be moving down a week or 2 before starting work.

See you at the start.

TechGirl

[BTONE]

Just wanted to know, are there really 'hills' on the course, or just slight inclines?

I've never run this half before, but I ran the marathon in 2007 and I remember the turn around point on the big loops to be a bit painful - are these the hilly bits or are there worse ones lurking out there?

[kene]

dmnz, on Mar 30 2009, 08:58 AM, said:

damn! but tahnks for the info

i might give it a miss then.

think the glasshouse race is on that weekend...maybe hit that instead

The 40th Canberra Half Marathon (Yes 40th) has 7.1k on roads. These roads are closed to traffic. The remainder of the half is on bike paths/recreation trails.  There is very little concrete except for a dam and bridge crossing.  Less than 600m on concrete. The bike paths/recreational trails are about 2m wide.  The course is undulating in parts but if you look at the fastest times you will see it is a fast course.  Canberra like all places in Aust within the Great Dividing Range is cooler than coastal areas in Winter and drier.  In May the conditions are normally ideal for running good times.  Added to this it is a one lap course   Cheers Kene

[BTONE]

Thanks Ken - really looking forward to running the half on the Sunday........ and as far as I'm concerned the cooler the weather, the better.

[Zorica]

BTONE, on Feb 11 2009, 01:15 PM, said:

Just wondering if anyone knows when the entries will be available for this event?

Also, what is the course like - it looks pretty flat around the lake.

Hi there, the on-line regestration is available now. It is $35 to reg. The course is good very flat. This is my first half marathon. Have checked out the course.

[kene]

  Just like to remind everyone that you have just one week before to enter the 40th Canberra Half Marathon before the late entry fee applies.  Check out our finishers medal on our website.  Entries to date indicate another record number of entrants and finishers.  Remember no cut off time and no parking fees.  Cheers Kene

[catgirl]

chisholm, on Mar 30 2009, 05:20 AM, said:

Hard, concrete and narrow!

Also note that last year the paths were not closed off so you will have to deal with Sunday cyclists and people walking their dogs etc. I was on one of my training runs going the other way! Needless to say I made sure I got out of the racers way!

It's a beautiful run and very picturesque - I went for a run on the course today and all the trees are dressed up in their autumn colours. Pity I didnt know about this race when I registered for the Sydney HM on the same day. Duh!

Edited by catgirl, 27 April 2009 - 05:19 PM.

[MikeMSM]

kene, on Apr 27 2009, 02:57 PM, said:

  Just like to remind everyone that you have just one week before to enter the 40th Canberra Half Marathon before the late entry fee applies.  Check out our finishers medal on our website.  Entries to date indicate another record number of entrants and finishers.  Remember no cut off time and no parking fees.  Cheers Kene

G'day Kene
The medal looks great. Quite a distinctive profile rather than the standard round shape.
Can I order a singlet now, or are they an on the day purchase?
You wouldn't see too many of them in Perth so I'd like to make sure I have one.

Thanks
Mike

[Eckyb]

Drat!  The Million Paws Walk is on the same day at Lake Burley Griffin.  That is going to serious affect my time- I will have to stop at pat all the cute dogs

[BTONE]

While I love dogs (and equally hate cats ) I would rather NOT be having to thread my way through a pack of them - and their owners - during a half marathon.

Does anyone know if this is likely (pleeeease say no!)

[bmac]

The Half course will keep you out of the way of all the dogs, and I am pretty sure that people will be well and truly finished before the walk away - perhaps that could be a cool down!  Hope everyone has a beautiful morning for it (has been perfect running weather the last few mornings nice and cool with no wind!).

[allrounder]

last year some of the backmarkers had to deal with the dogs on Commonwealth Ave bridge...

the dog walk should use the eastern side and leave the western side to the HM...the walk starts at 11am...

[kene]

allrounder, on May 6 2009, 10:39 AM, said:

last year some of the backmarkers had to deal with the dogs on Commonwealth Ave bridge...

the dog walk should use the eastern side and leave the western side to the HM...the walk starts at 11am...

Hi All,

I have spoken twice to the RSPCA about the dogs. They have assured me that they (the dogs and handlers) will stick to the Eastern side of Commonwealth Ave Bridge. We changed our course at great expense to avoid the dogs last year by incorporating an additional 4km on the road.

Looking good for a great half marathon weekend.

Cheers,
Kene

[allrounder]

kene, on May 6 2009, 05:51 PM, said:

I have spoken twice to the RSPCA about the dogs. They have assured me that they (the dogs and handlers) will stick to the Eastern side of Commonwealth Ave Bridge. We changed our course at great expense to avoid the dogs last year by incorporating an additional 4km on the road.

good work Ken, I figured that was why the course was changed last year...hopefully the dog handlers will do the right thing this year!

thankfully you no longer have to worry about things like the renovation work around Regatta Point etc...will make the Mother's Day Classic course interesting this weekend!

[Eckyb]

Thanks Kene.  That's good to know.... I will be bringing up the rear and have "sucker" written all over me in dog-language so I was imagine running a couple of steps, side stepping a yap-yap-dog, couple more steps before a labrador-cuddle

[Rico]

I'm sure the dogs on this event couldn't be even 1% as bad as the walkers in the Canberra Times Fun Run last year.

[catgirl]

BTONE, on May 5 2009, 04:52 PM, said:

While I love dogs (and equally hate cats ) I would rather NOT be having to thread my way through a pack of them - and their owners - during a half marathon.

Gee BTONE I dont think there is any need to be species-ist! Cats are people too, you just need to get to know them on their level.

Edited by catgirl, 08 May 2009 - 10:52 PM.

[prostiak]

Does anyone have a full-proof race strategy in place yet? I'm looking to PB here and go AROUND 1:27 flat. I'm not sure exactly how to break it up and pace myself. I was thinking 3 x 7k chunks getting progressivley faster.  Like 4:15, 4:09, 4:00 - 4:05...

Anyone else have a strategy? I know there are a boat load of studs out there judging by last year's results.

[MikeMSM]

prostiak, on May 12 2009, 04:37 PM, said:

Does anyone have a full-proof race strategy in place yet? I'm looking to PB here and go AROUND 1:27 flat. I'm not sure exactly how to break it up and pace myself. I was thinking 3 x 7k chunks getting progressivley faster.  Like 4:15, 4:09, 4:00 - 4:05...

Anyone else have a strategy? I know there are a boat load of studs out there judging by last year's results.

G'day Prostiak
Whilst not a "gun" I have found racing at a set pace works for me.
I have a nasty habit of going too hard too early so this slows me down.

Every Km at the same pace. First Km or so is usually a bit out there then settle down to the race. With a couple of Km or so to go, look whats in the tank and burn it.
You will be surprised how many people you can pick off at the end when they have nothing left  
This has worked for half and full marathons also for tri's and half ironman events, both run and bike legs, the swim is always a lottery.

Have you run this race before? Always an advantage.
What is your best previous time over this distance?

I should finish a couple of minutes behind you 1:29ish

Enjoy the run and I hope you pull a PB

Mike

[Rico]

I aim to beat 95 minutes by running every km in 4.30.

Same strategy as last year, though up and down hill kms mean not every km can be at the same speed.  Overall it worked out last year. I felt good at the end and sped up but waited until 18 before I allowed myself to push it any faster than my goal pace.

[BTONE]

Hey Rico - what do you mean "up and down hill "   - I thought it was flat!

[prostiak]

Hey Mike,

That sounds like my "strategy" from my only other half marathon to date, and I guess it worked, but I guess I also thought there was a better way to go about it. That race I just went out and ran hard from the gun and held on. I ran as hard as I could comfortably handle and then saw the average pace after a while was decent so I tried to keep it at a certain point and just keep pushing... My only other half (two years ago) was 1:27:47, that was in Ottawa Canada, and it was a relatively flat course as well... I've been doing longer stuff since though, marathons, ultras and HIM and IM events... We'll hafta see how she goes I guess, I'll probably just end up doing the usual in these sort of things and just going out and running and trying to get the avg pace UNDER 4:10 by the end of it... I think I can put up with any discomfort for the remainder of the race as by the time it really starts to hurt, the end should be somewhat near.

MikeMSM, on May 13 2009, 12:54 AM, said:

G'day Prostiak
Whilst not a "gun" I have found racing at a set pace works for me.
I have a nasty habit of going too hard too early so this slows me down.

Every Km at the same pace. First Km or so is usually a bit out there then settle down to the race. With a couple of Km or so to go, look whats in the tank and burn it.
You will be surprised how many people you can pick off at the end when they have nothing left  
This has worked for half and full marathons also for tri's and half ironman events, both run and bike legs, the swim is always a lottery.

Have you run this race before? Always an advantage.
What is your best previous time over this distance?

I should finish a couple of minutes behind you 1:29ish

Enjoy the run and I hope you pull a PB

Mike

[allrounder]

BTONE, on May 13 2009, 01:52 PM, said:

Hey Rico - what do you mean "up and down hill "   - I thought it was flat!

nope, definitely not flat...

[murphytarian]

In for this one, doing this event for the 5th time. Looking at around doing 1:40 to 1:45 (under 1:40 would be a bonus). Bib number 401.

[Bunyip]

allrounder, on May 13 2009, 05:28 PM, said:

nope, definitely not flat...

I wouldn't say the hills are that steep either, more like mole hills.

[catgirl]

Slightly undulating!

[Rico]

Yes I found my pace sometimes deviated from the target due to slight undulations.

[MikeMSM]

I've been doing longer stuff since though, marathons, ultras and HIM and IM events...

G'day Prostiak
Its too late to recommend some interval sessions to get used to the increased leg speed.
I'm guessing you have been doing some anyway.
You are obviously used to the "pushing on even when it hurts" part, so its all go from here.

Food is my biggest problem.
I land in Canberra at at 8-9 pm sort hire car etc, drive out to Queanbeyan
find some carbs. Find some breakfast that early. Oh find the start.
A day in aircraft and airports is not the ideal prep but life's like that.

Mike

[prostiak]

MikeMSM, on May 14 2009, 01:18 AM, said:

I've been doing longer stuff since though, marathons, ultras and HIM and IM events...

G'day Prostiak
Its too late to recommend some interval sessions to get used to the increased leg speed.
I'm guessing you have been doing some anyway.
You are obviously used to the "pushing on even when it hurts" part, so its all go from here.

Food is my biggest problem.
I land in Canberra at at 8-9 pm sort hire car etc, drive out to Queanbeyan
find some carbs. Find some breakfast that early. Oh find the start.
A day in aircraft and airports is not the ideal prep but life's like that.

Mike

I've done some interval and tempo stuff in the past coupla weeks, but this is also a part of my training for the Gold Coast Marathon so THAT race is the TRUE focus. But I still wanna go fast here...

I say just pack a bunch of food that you can bring with you, maybe some powerbars? sip on gatorade? Hit a grocery store ASAP when you get in.... And most of all keep positive!

[Rico]

Hmmm, weather turning a bit ugly ...

[Bunyip]

Rico, on May 15 2009, 05:16 PM, said:

Hmmm, weather turning a bit ugly ...

Mean't to be improving Saturday afternoon for a balmy 2 degrees on Saturday, but mainly fine. Top of 16.
Last year froze to death waiting for race. Weighing up weather to wear skin or not.

Received email from Ken Enyon regarding late entrants won't recieve medallion till at least June as entries have exceeded 800. Didn't have enough made!

[TechGirl]

I'm looking forward to my first Canberra event regardless of the weather.  However, I think I'll make use of my cycling arm warmers for this one. Easy to remove if it gets warm enough.  It's awesome to see so many entries.  All the autumn colours are out in force, everyone enjoy    

TechGirl

[djsherly]

Is it too late to enter?

[MikeMSM]

G'day Guys
Well its into the big tin duck tomorrow (another wasted day of my life) and off to CCCCanberra.
Still havn't had to light the fire here yet so the weather will be a bit of a wake up.
Hope everybody has a great run and enjoys the morning.
Sounds like it has been a great success for the organizers which has got to be a good thing.

I'll be wearing a blue and white singlet with SUB 3:30 on it. Say Hi as you go past.

Mike

[Bunyip]

djsherly, on May 15 2009, 11:21 PM, said:

Is it too late to enter?

Hi djsherly,
You can enter on the day, just make sure you arrive no later than 830am to register. Roughly $45 I believe. Hope you can make it!

[Bunyip]

BGC1968, on May 16 2009, 07:35 AM, said:

Hi djsherly,
You can enter on the day, just make sure you arrive no later than 830am to register. Roughly $45 I believe. Hope you can make it!

Will be wearing 97, I'm the guy with the large melon head, slightly unshaven, large frame and not quite in peak condition.

[djsherly]

BGC1968, on May 16 2009, 07:38 AM, said:

Will be wearing 97, I'm the guy with the large melon head, slightly unshaven, large frame and not quite in peak condition.

I'm not quite doing optimum prep - I'm having a couple of beers right now, but I did manage to squeeze out a 18k run last week when I found about the race. I would hope for a sub 2hr run which should be doable from a fitness point of view, anyway. I've been doing a lot of cycling because my knees are pretty much shot.

Making the event might a bit touch and go as my mother is visiting for the weekend. The wife would prefer my presence. I wonder why that is?  

[Bunyip]

djsherly, on May 16 2009, 06:36 PM, said:

I'm not quite doing optimum prep - I'm having a couple of beers right now, but I did manage to squeeze out a 18k run last week when I found about the race. I would hope for a sub 2hr run which should be doable from a fitness point of view, anyway. I've been doing a lot of cycling because my knees are pretty much shot.

Making the event might a bit touch and go as my mother is visiting for the weekend. The wife would prefer my presence. I wonder why that is?  

I thought having a couple of beers was optimum prep, anyway I prefer several rum and cokes before race day as last weekend it worked a treat on my build up run. I am looking for sub 2 hr as well, anything under 110 minutes will be good however aiming at 105 which would be a PB for me.
Maybe your mother can come along and give you support.

[bear]

very much looking forward to this one!!!!! Bugger the Sydney one, this one ROCKS!