July 4th Watermelon 5k - Run

I didn't realize when I signed up, but this was a "fun run", so no timing chips. There were timing clocks at the start, finish and 1 & 2 mile marks. I heard that there were 4000 registered runners and it seemed like they all showed up. It was really crowded and, as usual, people did not seed themselves properly. There were pace signs and announcements about seeding yourself in the correct spot, but most people ignored that and went to the spot they felt like starting. This really pisses me off. In fact, one stupid man had 3 young boys with him - maybe b/w the ages of 6-10. The youngest got separated from his family almost immediately and kept almost stopping to look around to find them. I felt sorry for him as it had to be a bit scary for him and it was certainly dangerous.
It took until the first mile until there was any room to run and even then the course was packed.
My legs decided that they really didn't want to run this am and would not turn over. I was working hard, but my pace stunk. I assume it is from the kick work in the pool ive done this week, plus upping my bike mileage this week; but regardless the reason, i struggled the entire run. It didn't help that it was really, really, really humid. I'm used to humidity, but his was just gross.

I did this run to help determine my HR zones and I did get them, so that is a win.

As i was running this and feeling like I might puke I was reminded why it has been so long since i did a stand alone 5k - I hate them, they hurt!!!

Talk nicely to my legs to get them to agree to work.

walked around the race site, stretched my quads and calves. As I waited for Janice to finish I hit the Planet Smoothie booth 2x for small cups on really good smoothies. I also got a cherry snow cone at one of the other vendor's booth and picked up a sample of organic hummus at another! I could have gotten some watermelon too, but since I hate watermelon I skipped that handout.


uncooperative legs.


Track Shack always puts on a good race. I can't blame the organizers for my lack of performance and I really can't be angry that 3999 other people also wanted to do this run :)