I really can’t believe it has been over a year since I ran a 10K race. It’s actually probably one of my favorite distances and it’s been over a year. I should run more races.

My dad and sister were visiting, so my dad offered to take me to the race so that TH could sleep in. It was a small race starting and ending at Forsyth Park. Last year I was excited to run this route (different race, same route), because it was close to where we wanted to purchase a house. I’ve run this route many times now, and thankful that we get to live here.

Dad and me

Having learned from past mistakes, I went to the bathroom TWICE before the race started. I am proud to say that I did not urinate on myself at any point during the race.

The Azalea Crimestoppers Race had options for a 5K, 10K, or 15K (doing both 5 and 10K’s routes). I’m glad I chose the 10K, because I really haven’t gotten many long runs in. The 5 and 15Kers started first. There was a decent group of them. The 10kers were a small group!

I listened to music and kept track of splits with my watch. I ran the first mile in 8:52 and the second mile in 8:36 — which was too fast. I went back to the 8:50’s for mile 3, 4, and 5. Besides the second mile, I was pretty impressed with my consistency. I focused on leg turnover to speed up, and purposely slowed if my breathing felt too labored.

I wondered if I could maintain the pace or if I’d crash several times, but I kept repeating to myself:

Races aren’t easy.

Mile 6 I ran in 8:30 which HURT. I regretted starting my last push that early, but kept repeating

Races aren’t easy.

I pushed the last 0.2 miles with my lungs hurting. After I crossed the finish line, I kept walking even though my dad was the opposite direction. I couldn’t even turn around. I wondered if I was going to puke. Running is a gross sport.

I finished in 54:02, a PR by 5 minutes! 8:42 pace (that number boggles my mind!). I didn’t stay for the awards ceremony, because I assumed my age group would be a popular one. But lo and behold, when I checked my time later that day.

I HAD WON THIRD PLACE IN MY AGE GROUP!

I picked up my medal today.

My medal!

There were only 6 people in my age group, but that is still dang exciting. Pretty sure all my medals from childhood are for participation or completion — lol. So this may be the first! I keep telling TH, “Remember when I won that race?” He keeps explaining to me that I did not actually win the race, but I think I did. I at least feel redeemed for that time I peed myself.