5k shamrock run 2011

i really hadn't been training as well as i would have liked. i think i can count on 2 hands the amount of runs i had gone on in the last year. it didn't stop me from trying my best, and i am very happy with the outcome.



it was a soggy, chilly morning. according to my iphone it was in the low to mid 40's and was raining/sprinkling on and off. my rain prep really paid off and i am so happy with my decision to get a hat and light jacket. it worked perfectly.

there were about 35,000 people taking part in this years run. it made for fun crowds, but the start took forever. i think i was lined up and ready to go for about 30 mins before i actually was able to pass the official start after being herded with the rest of the 5k-ers.



i was pumped. my playlist was packed with great music including young the giant, taking back sunday, florence and the machine, and even nicki minaj (to name a few). slow and steady was my mantra. i started right off the line with about 4.5 mph speed and tried to keep it at that, because i knew i would be able to stay there. i didnt want to hurry and then end up walking to catch my breath. i ended up staying at the same speed (basically) for most of the race. there was a slight incline that i know i slowed down for, which was ok. i didnt stop running, but i am pretty sure people could walk faster than my speed. there were a few different places that i got stopped at for traffic, and i kept my feet moving. there was only one break- about 10-20 yards- that i walked. it was at the top of the incline and my legs felt like jello. a quick cooldown later, and i was back at it. i felt so good!



i crossed the finish line at 00:39:58

i think i can do better. i know i can do better. the last quarter mile or so i pushed myself. i was feeling good and barely out of breath so i just went for it. according to my iphone runkeeper, i did a 7 minute mile pace at the end.



my goal was just to finish. i did finish.  and next time? i will finish with a better time. i know i can do it- this one was almost easy. i just need to push myself a bit more, and maybe get some more running in.

i already signed up for the next 5k! The Race for the Roses, April 3! Wanna run it with me?

pssst, see a video of the 2011 Shamrock Run HERE.

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