Run For Steem: A Soggy 5k :)

Ok, on to race day!  I joined in for my third year at one of the local races on Memorial Day.  Besides just giving me a way to make sure I get in my activity and test my running fitness, I enjoy taking part in races that give back to good causes.  This particular race not only supports veterans by donating proceeds to charity, but they also gave free race entry to any active or former service member.  I can't lie--it was a nice bonus to be able to opt for a tank top as the race shirt, too.  I will wear t-shirts around the house, but prefer to work out in a tank when the summer really starts heating up.  I am a total race swag hound.

Despite the dreary weather, there was a pretty good crowd.  Gotta love the solid running community that won't let a little moisture get in the way of their racing!  Given the conditions and my current conditioning, I knew I wouldn't be going out for a PR this time around.  Luckily it wasn't totally dumping rain, but pretty much kept up a light drizzle throughout the entire morning.  The roads were just slick enough to have to pay attention to footing and though the temperature was pretty comfortable, humidity never helps speed in my experience.  Not that any of that kept me from lining up at the front of the line to go out strong. ;)

The course is a straightforward out and back, with some rolling hills throughout.  Nothing too ridiculous as far as a climb, but enough to definitely notice.

I felt strong going out, so I tried to maintain a quick pace for the first mile.  I think I was at just under a 7 minutes at the marker, but then had to slow down a bit after that.  I ended up averaging a little under a 7:30 pace for an official time of 23:17 (according to official race chip time).

Not a bad result for less than stellar conditions, and it snagged me first in my age group (4th female out of 141).  I think I will probably set my sights on a fast course in mid-September for my goal race that I have done before, but may still scope out the summer running scene to stay on top of my short, speedy training.  I'll start mapping out my next phase of training this week to start June fresh!

Thanks as always to @dksart --my loyal personal race photographer and key holder. ;)

Happy running!