The Firecracker 5K Beach Run used to be a fundraiser for the Daytona Beach Track Club. 2019 marked the first year this holiday race was put on by Red Pointer Productions.
Training & Goals
Still wonky in the Achilles. I planned to follow my slow and easy 1:2 run:walk ratio for the race. I'm also working on a July runstreak so this was my 6th day in a row running at least 5K.
Race Day: July 6, 2019
The race start/finish was at Frank Rendon Park, which I have visited plenty of times during the winter to see the massive gull gathering. I was glad I arrived by around 6:45AM; I think the lot may have filled up. I got a sweet parking spot and picked up my bib and shirt. It was a beautiful morning out on the beach waiting for the race to begin. The temperature was about 79°F with 100% humidity and full sun at the time we started running.
Mile 1: 12:41
Mile 2: 12:46
Mile 3+: 12:53, 1:22
I was glad to come in under 40 minutes. Next stop, sub 35, and maybe someday I'll hit a sub 30 again.
After the Race
Cold water, watermelon, and cookies were availble for runners after the run. It was a nice atmosphere for this small race that had a lot of out-of-towners in (6+ states were represented in the awards ceremony!). It's also always nice when Race DJ is present at local races.
Recommendation
If you want to run in Florida in the middle of summer, you might be insane. But you can't go wrong with this race. Red Pointer puts on a smooth production. Recommended.
Chip time: 39:38
Placement details: 8th of 14 in Age Group, 151st overall out of 224 finishers
Race Amenities: Super soft unisex shirt, finisher medal for all
Cost: $33.75
Report written July 6, 2019
Featured and me running photo (c) Almost There Photography
