Yesterday I ran my first 10k race. Even though I have been running 10k practice runs for a while, there is something heart-pumping about running during a race. First of all, the conditions are not usually ideal given that you are up at the crack of dawn and running immediately. Although, that is what I do during the work week, on Saturdays, I like to be a little more relaxed about when I run. I usually have my coffee, cull through my emails, dilly dally a little bit and then run.
Also, race day almost always guarantees I will be running a faster pace–which is a good thing! My competitive spirit jumps to the forefront when I am surrounded by other runners suffering just like me! I like to end my runs with a sprint, but with the faster overall pace, it makes sprinting much more challenging.
I always know I have had a good race when at the end, I want to sign up for another race. That is exactly what I felt after yesterday’s race. I felt really strong during the race and knew that my consistent training had paid off. Of course, runs in the winter in the Pacific Northwest almost always guarantee wet running and I am not sure I am up for that. So, I think I will keep training and sign up for a 15k in the spring. Any takers?
seniyegroff 