This race took place at the Freedom Elementary School in Deland. Proceeds from the Falcon 5K were to benefit the school's technology fund. There were a lot of kids in this race, plus family members of students, as well as school faculty and staff.
Training & Goals
The Star Wars Dark Side races at Disney World were just a week away. I was in taper mode for the half marathon. With ideal race conditions this morning -- certainly the last such cool Florida morning we'd have for months -- I hoped to PR on this race.
Race Day: April 9, 2016
It was 55° and sunny at the start -- perfect conditions for running and ideal for those hoping to PR. The race would take us from the school into the neighboring subdivision of Victoria Park. Before the race began I asked a fellow runner to take my photo. I think it was the first time he used a smartphone camera... it seemed to be taking too long so I smiled and said it was okay. I like how the photo came out. :)
Mile 1: 9:22
Woo, I was feeling really good in the cool weather. But could I keep up this pace for the entire race? No walk breaks here, but I was doubtful I could keep the pace.
Mile 2: 9:18
Woah, faster still? No walk breaks in this mile either, but I definitely started to feel fatigued here. I figured I had "banked" some time so if I needed a quick walk break later to keep me going, it might help.
Mile 3+: 9:30, 1:58*
I took a super quick walk break by the water stop to take a drink and then sprinted to the finish for my first sub 30 5K! So happy!
Chip time: 29:39 (1:14 PR)
Placement details: 4th of 17 in age, 40th overall out of 164 finishers
Race Amenities: Swag included a short sleeve cotton t-shirt. No finisher medals.
Cost: $20.00
*I often forget to turn off my Garmin after a race, so the final time is skewed.
Report written April 21, 2016
Finish photo (c) Almost There Photography
The Naughty or Nice 5K in Lake Mary was my third race. Costumes were encouraged, and lots of people dressed up as elves or Santa Claus. One woman dressed like an angel and I heard a lot of jingle bells on the run. I wore a festive outfit and got photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and a candy cane stilt walker.