2019 Navy 5k Recap

This year marked the 75th anniversary of Operation Neptune at Normandy Beach.  The medal commemorated the event and was quite nice.  This was my first EVER race.  I did the 5k with a 4:1 run/walk interval back in 2011 I believe.  It was also my first EVER 10k...not sure why I decided this would be my race of firsts over the years.

We lined up for a 9:30 start, combining both the 5k and the 10k runners.  This race likes to switch up the direction we run and this year, runners would be heading towards downtown which meant a sharp 90 degree turn about 100m into the race...just great for bottle-necking!  Once cleared of this corner, the runners/walkers do spread out and there is less weaving involved.  My thoughts throughout this run were centered around trying to figure out which direction had more elevation.  According to another runner....it was this direction.  

In past races, I am aware that if I look at my garmin and the pace is 5:15 or under, I immediately panic and tell myself I can't maintain that pace.  Sooooo....I decided early on in this race that I would not look at my watch...not once.  I didn't look at kilometer markings, I didn't look at pace...it would be what it would be.  This direction choice does allow a decline (although slight) for the final 1.5k.  It also affords a loooonnnngggg look at the finish shoot...and it seems to take forever to actually reach it!

Finish-line photos are never glamorous.  I was able to finish in 26.34 (chip time) which earns me a seasons best and a course best.  I'll take it.  My final 2 kilometers read 5:05 and 5:04 which is fast for me...thank god for a decline. :-)

The race shirt was 'performance' cotton.  I was actually surprised at how many people wore the shirt to run in....it was hot and humid yesterday.  Not to mention, I have always felt you have to run to earn the shirt...I never wear a shirt for which I haven't run the race.  Anyone else wait to wear the shirt until after the race...or do you wear the shirt to run in??

I have no other races on the schedule...but I'm sure that will change as time goes on.  I usually always do something at the Valley Harvest...and I might try to fit another race in before that.  Hope everyone is having a great summer!