Jan. 4, 2026

Countdown To Dopey Day 3: 10K & Half Marathon Strategy for Smart Execution

Countdown To Dopey Day 3: 10K & Half Marathon Strategy for Smart Execution

Day 3 of the Dopey Challenge is where many weekends quietly unravel — not because athletes feel bad, but because they feel great. In Day 3 of the Countdown to Dopey, Coach Jill Bartholomew breaks down how to approach both the 10K and the Half Marathon with discipline, patience, and intention so you protect your body for Sunday’s marathon. After travel, adrenaline, and one race under your belt, confidence is high — and that’s exactly why restraint matters most. This episode covers: Why feeling good early in the weekend can lead to costly mistakes Why the 10K’s only job is to get you safely to the Half Marathon How racing the 10K too hard can sabotage the marathon Why Saturday crowds, pacers, and adrenaline make the Half Marathon deceptive How negative pacing protects glycogen, legs, and recovery Realistic pace adjustments for runDisney races Why running tangents, etiquette, and execution matter more than watch pace How to recover properly after the 10K and Half to prepare for the marathon The goal on Day 3 isn’t to prove fitness — it’s to protect Sunday. Smart decisions on Saturday are what allow you to show up to the marathon start line capable, confident, and intact. 🎧 Day 3 of the Countdown to Dopey — listen now and keep your weekend on track.

Takeaways

 

You need to have discipline during race weekends.

The 10K is crucial for setting up the half marathon.

It's important to feel controlled during the races.

Starting slow and finishing strong is a proven technique.

Running the tangents can save distance during the race.

Recovery is essential after the 10K and before the half marathon.

Drink electrolytes and feed your body for recovery.

Stretching helps prevent injuries and aids recovery.

Enjoy the race and take in the atmosphere.

The marathon is the most challenging part of the Dopey Challenge.

 

 

If you are training for a Triathlon or Run event of any distance from your first 10k to your first full IRONMAN and beyond, connect with Jill to talk about how to take your performance to the next level! Jill is the Head Coach and owner of Be Fierce Multisport is a full time, professional coach and works with athletes of all skill levels. 

 Click here to schedule a consultation


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