I did take a look at last year’s results, and, okay, you’re right…it’s pretty unlikely I’ll be last. And even so, finishing the race is really all that matters! Why do I torture myself with all of these worst case scenarios?!

I think I’m going to take your advice about walking through the water stops…I try not to allow myself to walk during races, but then again, I’ve never run 12 miles straight before, so what do I know? Haha. I’m pretty sure it’ll make those two hours a little more pleasurable if I at least allow myself to stop for a quick breather.

Thanks again for your support, I really appreciate it!

Were there results posted of last year’s race that you could check to see what the slowest finisher was? I’m a slower runner, and while I’ve not yet come in last place (I did come in second-to-last once), this is something I constantly stress about and I check previous race results often to help calm my fears or to set expectations that I *might* be last so I’m not shocked if it ever were to happen.

Also, I incorporate walk breaks into all my long distance races – even if it’s just ten steps to catch my breath. Maybe decide to let yourself walk through water breaks if you really can’t bring yourself to let yourself have walk breaks. I can absolutely understand the desire to run the entire time!

Good luck! I’m sure you’ll be great – and, I would be with a 10k time of under an hour, there’s no way you’ll be last!!