Results/Photos

Date: Sept. 20, 2025 Participant: Ken Shimizu #646 Race: 2025 Pikes Peak Ascent Half Marathon Distance: 13.1 miles Weather: Chilly start. Heavy winds (tail/cross wind). Sunny at the finish.

Steady Progress with Strong Placement in Division Ken Shimizu exhibited a strategic ascent in the 2025 Pikes Peak Ascent, navigating the demanding elevation gain from 6,300 feet to 14,000 feet over 13.36 miles. Despite starting at a moderate pace of 9:30 min/mile at Ruxton, Ken maintained resilience and progressed significantly in standings to 33rd place in the Open 25-29 division by the finish. His impressive commitment at higher altitudes, where the pace declined more predictably to 23:47 min/mile, demonstrated endurance and determination. Throughout key sections such as Barr Camp and A-Frame, Ken's consistency in placing shows commendable pacing strategy. He successfully completed the race in 3:55:57, equating to a 17:39 min/mile average pace, while reaching an outstanding 12th place at "1.5 Miles To Go" checkpoint in his division. Future considerations could focus on enhancing speed endurance to sustain a faster pace during the demanding final miles above the tree line.