I did this race on Saturday, April 16 and finished in 1:49. I am somewhat happy with my time. You see last year I finished this race in 1:47:57. My last two races I have finished in about 1 minute slower compared to last year. What is going on? My goal for each race is to always improve on last year’s time but so far I have done two races and it is not looking good.
Let’s go back to Sunday’s race. I almost did not make it because it was raining. Ugh, I am not a fan of running in the rain, especially if it is cold. I got to the race early because I got an email letting me know that the parking lot was not going to be open but instead to look for street parking and/or parking at other lots. I wanted to get a good spot so I would not have to walk too much hence getting there early. I waited in my car hoping that the rain would go away. It finally did but it was mostly drizzly and that was fine with me. I got out to go to the bathroom (loved it no line at all) and got some coffee. I was so cold so I went back to my car to warm up for a little bit. I left again about 7:45 and I went to the bathroom again, stretched, and waited in line.
The race began and I made my way. As usual I started off too fast and paid for it later on. I still do not know how to stay on pace. I took my first break after 2 miles and then began running again. I took a break every 2 miles or so but I think I need to stop doing that if I want to improve on my time. 🙂 The weather was great. It was not pouring and not windy at all. It was a good course with no incline and enough space/room to pass other runners. I did not pass a lot of runners but at least I had the option of doing so if needed. Last year I ran a race that was so crowded that it was difficult to pass anyone at all!! Anyway, at the end of the race there was beer but there was a long line and I did not want to wait for it. I did get bottles of Muscle Milk (love it!!) and FRS Health Energy Drink. I had a good time at this race and will definitely do it again next year but next time it will be less than 1:47:57!!!!
My next race is the Wrigley Start Early Run 10K on Saturday. This year is the first time I do this so I am looking forward to it. I hope the weather cooperates since we have been having some crappy weather here in Chicago.
I have the same mentality to better my time, even if only a second difference. But sometimes we get into a rut. It will get better! Just keep running! 🙂 great job on the races!!