In the grand scheme of things today’s race wasn’t really a big deal. It was just another local 10K road race. But, in many small ways, today’s race was important. Today’s race was going to be a test for me. This was my first 10K race since returning from my injury. I also ran today with some seriously sore calves.
I’ve been working on my stride lately and in an effort to decrease the chance of reinjuring my tibias, I’m trying to do away with my heel strike stride. Thursday night I ran 5.4 miles all on my forefoot (felt like on my toes), and ever since Friday morning my calves have been screaming. Now I know I’m not INJURED, I’m just sore and hurt. So, today when I ran the race, it wasn’t about running injured (stupid) it was about running sore. This was a good chance to work on my mental toughness, something I’m going to need come marathon time.
As far as the race itself, the 10K was organized to raise money for low-income students who cannot afford the school fees associated with school sports. It started on the street just outside of the town carnival and ended inside the carnival. It was a gentle rolling hill loop course typical for this area and nothing too special. Straight road running and with no real scenery. There were multiple water stations throughout the course. Only 81 people showed up to race, but there were some familiar faces including Peter, a physical therapist who works in the department that helped put me back together when I was injured.
I also had some fun battling competitors out on the course. Stephen Duval passed me around mile 4, but I was able to pull ahead of him shortly before mile 5. Alison Bartelettodo proved to be more difficult. I first passed her on mile 2, she nipped at my heels all the way to mile 3+, and she did pass me around mile 4. I caught up to her and passed her after mile 5, and she was right with me the rest of the way. I only beat her by 8 seconds. After the race I waited for her and thanked her for pushing me along. I love the competition and sportmanship. Alison, if you ever read this, thank you again.
So, how did I do? Not bad, not great. I finished middle of the pack 40/81 with a 50:57 (8:12 min/mile pace). I guess I’m happy with this, since it’s not too much different than my 5K pace. I was able to push through the sore legs and I had fun. After the race, participants were given free entry to the pancake breakfast, so I hung out with a few people before heading home to wash off the stink. Ultimately, it was a good way to spend a Saturday morning. I’ll run this race again next year.
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