Results/Photos

Date: Sept. 20, 2025 Participant: Mark Koch #452 Race: 2025 Pikes Peak Ascent Half Marathon Distance: 13.1 miles Weather: Chilly start. Heavy winds (tail/cross wind). Sunny at the finish.

Consistent Strength in High Altitude Mark Koch completed the 2025 Pikes Peak Ascent half marathon, traversing a challenging 13.36-mile course with an elapsed time of 4:27:53. Mark maintained a solid pace averaging 20:03 min/mile, earning him 7th place in the O65-69 division out of 2049 total participants. Noteworthy splits included a brisk start at Ruxton (9:11 min/mile) and a steady pace up to Barr Camp (17:18 min/mile), despite increasing elevation. The final miles slowed (29:09 min/mile at the finish) as he climbed to 14061 feet. Comparatively, his 2024 performance saw a faster elapsed time of 4:03:15, securing a 2nd place in the same division. Mark's strategy to manage altitude early allowed for an overall strong finish. The splits suggest a need for a more consistent pace in the final miles to mirror last year's success. Continued focus on adjustments in these key areas may enhance future performance in similar events.