Yes, you have a right to finish a 17-miler feeling tired, but you should not finish exhausted. Running steady pace will get you to the finish line on time. Practice not only running, but everything else related to race day. That includes equipment. Test your clothing in training to make sure nothing chafes or causes a blister.
Weather can be unpredictable.
Consider every scenario you might encounter. It will help get you to the starting line and, most important, get you to the finish line. To order an autographed copy of this and other books by Runner's World's best writer go to Books by Hal Higdon . All rights reserved.