Race Report: St. Patrick's Day 5K

What a great race this morning! It was my first time lining up for the St. Patrick's Day 5K and possibly my first time really doing anything to celebrate my inner Irish (OK, I know, I have zero Irish heritage, but who doesn't like an excuse to have fun, in green!).

This race was a bit of a "speed tuner", leading up to my next longer distance race - the BMO Sunshine Coast April Fool's Run on April 6th. I went in feeling good as I am getting stronger and being able to run harder with much less discomfort these days. I was pretty confident I could finish this race with a personal best, and possibly break the 25-minute mark. There were several weather reports predicting lots of rain for the event too, but I was confident the coming together of people wanting to be active and have fun would inspire the skies to keep dry. It was in fact a successful day.

I didn't study the course map/profile beforehand so I was unsure what to expect. It had a few rolling hills, which made it interesting. A big downhill to begin with which was uncomfortable for achy hips, but once I got my groove, I appreciated all the downhills. But the last haul uphill on Pipeline Rd was rough - even though that's a hill I've run repeats on and know well. I'm thrilled that my pace was averaging under 5:00/km until the 4km mark, but I couldn't hold that up that hill to get my sub-25. Next time! Regardless, this was a personal best and a finish time that gave me a confidence boost at 25:17.

This race was also a really good time - most runners choosing to wear green and some festive St. Patty's themed embellishments (or full on costume). There were may familiar faces there at the race, friends to catch up with, and an excellent post-race party. I wish I could have stayed longer, but we sure enjoyed ourselves. What a great idea to give souvenir beer glasses at the finish line, and hey, it was 5pm somewhere.