Going into the race I really didn't know what to expect. My hamstring has been really holding my training back and making running a chore. I knew that my indoor 3k estimated the ability to run 8:40 for the steeplechase and my training up until 2 weeks ago had been going great but obviously with the hammy issue, I was questioning my ability.  I knew the field was rather weak except Luke Watson who runs for Adidas. I assumed he would take it out quick and I could either run by myself in 2nd or go for it with him.

The Race: As I expected, Watson took the lead almost right away. I relaxed behind him knowing the pace was manageable and allowing him to cut some of the strong wind. We hit the mile around 4:45 (splits are always hard to judge with the steeple) so I knew we were on decent pace but probably not going to go 8:45 tonight. I felt good, I told myself I barely feel this fatigued in the middle of 4mi tempo runs. 2 laps to go, I was getting tired but I could tell by Watson's breathing that he was tiring also. I told myself to stay strong and you will have something in the tank for the last lap. On the 2nd to last water jump, I knew I had a good finish in me. I almost went right then but decided to hold off since the wind was strong on the homestrech. I took the lead just after the bell sounded with a hard move (cant see it in the video). With about 275m to go I was going hard into the barrier and bashed my knee on my trail leg, it hurt pretty bad but I pressed on, I lost some of the gap I opened up. The last water jump was coming up and Watson was right on my heels. I decided to hurdle the water jump to try to gain a step but it really didnt help (or hurt) me. With 100m to go I stated to sprint hard, feeling pretty good. Watson came up beside me and I tried to dig deeper but it wasnt there. He got me by .2 or so.

All considering, I think it was a good race. I am happy about how comfortable I felt during the race. If I can get my hammy 100% I think I should be able to drop the US Outdoor Championship qualifying time of 8:45 no problem.

My knee hurt pretty bad trying to cool down. Pretty swollen today (Friday) but wasnt too bad on my 60' run.

Results

Video