The races keep getting smaller! This was a tiny field of just 51 runners. The Stone Island 5K was to benefit the DeBary Volunteer Fire Department. I was happy to support our local firefighters and get a nice timed race in a pretty location. Let's run!
Training & Goals
My first half marathon was just two weeks away. I had my longest run (12 miles) the previous week, and was starting my taper, with just 16 miles under my belt in the week leading up to this race. I told myself I'd take this race easy, especially considering the conditions (see below), but it sure is hard not to race a race!
Race Day: April 2, 2016
At 75° and muggy, running conditions were not ideal at the start. At least the sun wasn't shining. In fact, it was threatening rain and quite blustery. The inflatable finish line arch wasn't put up due to the unfavorable conditions.
Mile 1: 9:27
This was a new way to time a race for me - we had a gun start but chip-timed finish at a different location. I tried to position myself near the front, but with such a small group running, everyone had a good spot, and I guess everyone was over the start within just a few seconds.
Mile 2: 9:53
Stone Island is a really pretty community on the shore of Lake Monroe. The course took us past the lake and through the tree-canopied streets. Very pretty.
Mile 3+: 10:13, 1:54*
I took a couple of walking breaks in mile three. The humidity took a toll! I was happy to see I had a new PR (by just 2 seconds!) and placed first in my age group! I think half of the runners got medals. :)
Chip time: 30:53 (0:02 PR)
Placement details: 1st of 6 in age, 15th overall out of 51 finishers
Race Amenities: Swag included a short sleeve cotton shirt. I got a first place age group medal (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
Racing photo (c) Almost There Photography
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