I just got back from the World half marathon championships in Bulgaria, where I had an awful race......I ran like a complete turd. It took everything in me to not step off the course. I knew about 5k in that it was not going to be my day and I was in trouble. I don't know why exactly but it just wasn't.
I rarely have off days so it has caused me to really reflect on what I have done wrong. After a few days post race, I have come to the conclusion that while there are possibly a variety of factors that I didn't perform to my abilities (head cold, long travel, dehydration) I realize my biggest mistake is that I still have not fully recovered from my last marathon.
 Athletes should never underestimate the power of recovery.
While my mind and competitive spirit are raring to go, my body is not quite there yet.
You would think that by now, as an elite runner I would have all these mistakes and kinks worked out.....but truth is, I am always learning.  Each marathon has left me with different residual side effects. In my last marathon, I went to the well, which meant my muscles and physiological system was challenged to its max.
I am disappointed and frustrated that I had to experience this suboptimal race on such a big platform, but ultimately I am fired up by my turd performance.
Lesson of the day, rest and recovery is just as important as the training.