St. Patrick's Day Run

For three days prior to the run, the weathermen of Kansas City have been predicting rain mixed with snow for Saturday morning's run. Friday night as I was sleeping, I woke numerous times to rain and the wind blowing against the house. I knew the next morning would be cold and very damp.
I awoke early (to get a little breakfast well before the run that started at 10am) to find a blanket of snow on the ground and the wind pushing the white stuff everywhere. My original plan had been to wear a light-weight long-sleeved top with my shorts. I wanted to turn in a good time and push myself a little.
I stayed with the shorts but went to a little heavier top; something that would keep me warm along the 4 mile course. The snow stopped blowing about 45 minutes before the race. The race started and ended in Old Wesport.
I started with a buddy from work. This was his first-ever race. I told myself prior to the run, based on the cold and wet streets, I wouldn't go after it and just take it easy today. As soon as the race started, the competitive spirit welled up in me and I had to break away from my buddy.
I didn't start my watch until I crossed the start line (probably a good minute from the official start of the race). We were pretty jammed up within the first mile. My split time was 9:48...I knew I had to get outside of everyone if I was going to make up any time at all. By the time I got to the 2nd mile, my split was 17:18. I stayed outside of the pack, and by mile 3, my split was 23:02.
I knew the last mile had a couple of steep hills over by St. Lukes Hospital and the race actually finished at the top of a hill on Wesport Rd. I took a bit of a beating on the first hill, but when I came to the finish, I passed a handfull or runners as I reached the top of the hill. I finished with a 31:14. Next time I will definately start with my pace group so I don't have to battle all the runners in front of me. It turned out to be a very good run and everyone had a great time. I don't think we got above 38 degrees for the entire run.