On Friday, July 4, I ran again the Elmhurst 4 on the 4th. Β This is my second time running that race.

I woke up at 5:30am, drank coffee, ate a PickyBar, got ready, and made my way to Elmhurst. Β It took me about 25 minutes to get there.

I found a parking spot close to the start/finish line and went to pick up my bib. Β I then waited for the race to start. Β I had no race plan (smart??). Β Well, Coach SaraΒ told me to push myself at the end and to run the last two miles faster than the first two miles. Β Gulp.

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Finally it was time to run. Β It was a beautiful day for a race. Β It was partly sunny and not too hot.

I stopped to get water at the first water stop. Β Perfect location because it was before an uphill. Β I drank my water as I walked up the hill. Β There were a few spectators and it was great seeing them outside cheering for us on such a special day.

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Mile 2 was the turnaround point to head back to the finish line. Β I did not stopΒ atΒ the next water stop because I was feeling really good and not thirsty at all.

I pushed myself during that last mile but did walk for a little bit to go up a small hill on my way to the finish line. Β I was tired and just needed a few seconds to catch my breath.

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Going up towards the finish line. I know it looks flat but I swear that it isn’t. I took this picture after I was done with the race.

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Below are my splits from this year and last year.

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My finish time is 39:39 which is an almost 2 minutes PR from last year. Β It was a great feeling!! Honestly, I was not expecting it. Β I was trying not to look too much at my watch and instead ran based on how I felt.

Cool shirt!

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I am so glad I had the chance to run this race again. Β I like the distance, location, and price (only $25!!).

Next race is Saturday, July 12, Β Chinatown 5k. Β It will be my first time doing that race.

Don’t forget to enter my giveaway for a free pair of Injinji Toesocks.

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