Winter Pickle Run 5K

With new goals perched on the mirror, I found myself itching for a race.  After reading a unique write-up on a local winter running series called the Pickle Run, I was all set to find out what 2010 would have in store. 

Race morning brought a break from the frigid temperatures that have been blanketing the area.  Sunny and in the 40s, it would be ideal running conditions.  I got to the park with plenty of time to spare, after mentally noting the hunters gathering near the park entrance to hunt deer.  I guess there would be no lack of motivation to run fast!

After a little over a mile warm-up, that included the steepest and longest hill I can recall running on, I ditched my watch (a rule for the race since a prediction run was also taking place).  This would be a rare time for me to run with no idea how fast or how far along I would be.  Without a lot of expectations it didn't seem like a bad idea.

After a few administrative items, the races finally got under way, and I found myself fairly alone off the front of the pack.  I could feel the morning chill on my lungs, but I just kept pushing, while holding a relaxed and furious tempo.  A duo passed me just shy of the halfway point, but with the return stretch being uphill I was confident they wouldn't get too far away.

I was able to run in their draft for a bit, but eventually they pulled away.  Around this time we were passing the rest of the field running in the opposite direction.  It provided a nice level of encouragement and a realization that I wasn't very far from the lead.

I had noted a few landmarks on the opening stretch and as they came back into view on the return, I knew that the finish wasn't far off.  I was able to reel in a member of the pair that passed me early on and did my best to do it decisively, so as not to have to run shoulder-to-shoulder with him over the closing quarter mile or so. 

As I crested the final rise, I could see the finish and put in the best kick I could muster.  I was shocked when I saw the time clock still showing 18 minutes.  I was sure it was about to click over to 19, but I was quickly proved wrong as I crossed the finish line in a very surprising 18:50 (6:03/mile). 

That's a new PR (by :37), the first goal to get crossed off in 2010, and the second goal to get crossed off in 2010 (care of my first place finish within my age group).  Overall I ended up finishing in a very surprising 7th place.  I guess I'm capable of some pretty fast times, so long as I don't psych myself out when I run fast splits. 

For my efforts on the day I received a very unique first place trophy.  It is in fact, the very sought after frozen pickle in a jar with glitter.  I knew you were jealous!

In an effort to celebrate a little more when I accomplish my goals I promptly headed over to the store to pick up a filet and some asparagus (to be joined by mushrooms and onions, a yuengling, and some green onions).  It was a very savory and rewarding celebration!  Here's to many more filets in 2010!