Chelmsford and friends Alumni XC meet

 My final race of the month was the Chelmsford and friend's alumni XC race.  This was the 13th time I've had the pleasure of racing over the Chelmsford XC course the day after Thanksgiving.  I did a short workout earlier in the week in the hopes of getting my legs turning over.  Maybe that and a long run (12 miles which was only the sixth time I've run longer than 10 all year) on Thanksgiving were not the best ideas leading into the race?  I cut out of work and zipped over to Chelmsford.  It was a little over 40 degrees and sunny, but the wind was gusty making it feel a bit cooler. I quickly said "hello" to race director and long-time friend Keith O'Brien and headed out for a course preview.  The double loop course was in very good shape with only a little slick mud around home plate, otherwise the footing was good.  Mark B and Kevin C were also out blowing the leaves off of the single-track section which was much appreciated.  I felt okay warming up, but after switching into race flats, I did another 1.5 miles and felt flat and sluggish.  O'B lined up the 23 runners for a group picture and sent us on our way. I found myself in the front right away, trying to get out strong but not stupid fast.  If anything, I was a bit conservative. I was surprised to be in the lead, I'd not won here since 2017.  My goal based on my time from last year was to average 640s. I knew from the varying terrain that should be a 630, 700, and 630.  I passed the mile in 638 which wasn't too far off goal pace and pressed hoping for the best.  I was almost dead-on with a 650 second mile but I think the wind on the field really slowed me down and I had a 3:30 next half mile split despite some downhill.  I had glanced back at the end of the field and saw that Kara Haas was maybe 20-30 seconds back.  I was pretty sure if I didn't fall apart, I'd be able to hold on for the win.  The next half was in 318 but I struggled on teh final hill in the last .2 (long course) which was nearly 7-min pace.  That hurt!  I managed to get the win with Kara 44 seconds back (and she had raced on Thanksgiving)!  I closed out the morning with a short 2 mile warm-down with Kara, Jim R, and Kevin C.  We got back just in time for the awards ceremony where I won a "yard of Twinkies".  Sweet!