I don't usually do larger races (not much for crowds) but I wanted to do this one since it was a unique opportunity - the first All-Star Charity 5k. And the race will be held in different cities every year, so who knows when I'd get the chance to do it again.

I hadn't slept well the night before (issues with 15 yo daughter) and I think I was a little dehydrated going into this race so wasn't sure what to expect. It was supposed to be a little warm but overcast so I figured the temp wouldn't bother me too much. Unfortunately the sun decided to come out as the race started and it was pretty hot on the course.

They told at the start that there were 8000 people registered for the 5k and fun run so things were pretty crowded. I'm not sure why they asked for an estimated finish time on the registration because there were no corals or pace signs - everyone just lined up wherever they could find room.

It took me probably close to 10 minutes to finally cross the start line and about 1/2 mile or so before I could actually run at a decent pace. Unfortunately, that 1/2 mile was about all I could do at the time. I knew it wasn't going to be a good day at that point, so I decided to just take it easy and enjoy the run/walk through downtown. I ran when I felt like it and walked when I needed to - it's not like I was in any danger of losing out on an AG award, lol! I think the winners had already crossed the finish before I even got to mile 1. I did run it in the last 1/2 mile or so and got my finisher's medal, then tried to find my husband in the sea of people to head back home.

My time is an estimate since I didn't wear my watch and forgot to look at the start time when I finally got across the line. I don't have an official time yet - they haven't been posted, but it should be pretty close.

Hydrate properly and try to get a good night's sleep the day before.

The 2 mile walk back to where my husband had parked the car.


For a first time race, I thought they did a decent job. The start was delayed a little bit due to all the speeches beforehand but it wasn't too long.