Eggs Legs 5K Race Recap - West Jordan, UT

Official Time: 24:21
Placement: 1st in the 50-55 6th overall
Results:  Here
Race Website: Here
Weather: Low 40's, slight wind from the south
Garmin Dump: Here
Previous Years: [2021]

Mile	Time	Comments
1	7:47	Wow. Didn't expect this pace
2	7:46	Still solid pacing -- still had it!
3	8:03	Calf string hit me at about 2.5 miles. Hobbled the last .5 of a mile
3.10	0:39	How much did I trust my calf muscle?
	Total Miles: 3.10 - 24:16

Introduction

So I signed up for the Eggs Legs 10K race back in the winter months.  OnHillEvents, the organizer, always has a sale around Black Friday or Christmas.  I wound up scoring this race for about $30.

I've been dealing with some back issues for well over a month now.  Sometimes I can run -- but always with stiffness and ultimately pain, or sometimes I last about 10 steps.  So doing, let alone racing a 10K, was kind of out of the question.

The race organizer, when I arrived to get my bib on Thursday, kindly allowed me to switch to the 5K. At least if my back didn't hold out, I could get through a 3 mile walk with friends.

So I prepped up the night before the race.  I wound up taking a muscle relaxer (which kind of made me loopy) and then an Aleve the morning of.  I hate relying upon pain relievers and NSAIDs, but this definitely did the trick.  I had zero problems with my back on this race.

Either way, I arrived with the intention that this race was likely going to be a "fun" run or at least a walk at the worst.

The Race

So I rolled into the race just shy of 8:15 for the 9 AM start.  I wound up chatting with plenty of people and getting in about a mile warm-up.  Again, I had zero problems with my back / hip but that didn't mean I was in the clear.

My goal was to go at about 10K pace for the first mile and then if my back gave me the all clear, rachet up the speed a bit.

Around 9 AM, 250 5K runners lined up at the Gardner Village shopping center and bolted out of the starting line.  There was a 10K and half marathon which had started 1 and 2 hours before our race, so while we were heading out, racers were coming in -- it wasn't as bad as it sounds -- the other racers were pretty thinned out and they weren't as highly attended.

I started off strong, racing in my Saucony Fastwitches.  It was cool out so I wore shorts and a short-sleeved shirt.  I had pocketed my thin gloves.

The race starts off at the eclectic shopping center before heading south on the Jordan River Bike Trail.  This is my "home" course, being that I run it quite a bit.  So I knew every crack in the sidewalk, turn and bridge we had to cross. 

This race is also popular with newer runners, so lots of kids and casual runners.  So I wasn't too surprised to be in the front of the pack.  I was all about surviving this race, taking inventory on my back every minute -- wondering how much borrowed time I had.

During the first mile -- as usual - I felt in control. A nice solid pace and it didn't seem to crazy.  I had done a speed workout earlier in the week and I had to cut it short due to back issues.  But as the first mile went on -- my back and hip were quiet.

I was shocked -- no stunned -- to see a 7:47 come up on my watch for the first mile.  And I was running into a very mild headwind.  I thought I was supposed to go at 8:15 pace?

Mile 2 is usually where things get difficult. I was running into returning half marathoners and 10K runners but there really wasn't much competition.  The nearest person ahead of me was barely within shouting distance and I didn't dare look to see who was coming on my back.

Exactly at 1.55 miles, I reached the turn around.  Finally, a full length 5K!  And best of all, I had a nice tailwind to work with and my body was holding up.

I got a sense of who was behind me on this out and back course and from what I could tell, my competition was still in the hunt.  I figured I had a lock on something in my age group (you just never know) but I was running well -- could this be my "day?"

I finally got to the first bridge to cross the Jordan River and I felt something in my calf just tighten up.  Each step it got a little worse.  Last weekend during a training run, I got a very mild calf strain.  For intents and purposes I thought I was over it.

Each step it got tighter and tighter and by the time I crossed the bridge to the final half mile stretch it was hurting.

I glanced behind me, fearing an angry mob of 50+ year old runners chasing me down  I had just blasted a 7:46 mile and if I could knock out the final one at that pace, I'd have a sub 24 minute 5K.  However, no one was behind me.  

I was still running into trailing 5K runners on their outbound and they cheered me on.  It really helped.  But I was definitely running with an odd gait and every step I took with my right leg, hurt.

My paced dropped dramatically.  I had whatever place I was in line for pretty much locked up, but I still was hoping to go sub 24 minutes.

The last quarter mile or so of this race is quite a few turns.  There is also a bit of a hill as you leave the bike trail and into the shopping area.  It isn't bad, but it always slows me down.  Also the finish line is still a solid .1 of a mile after entering the parking lot.

My calf had calmed down a bit but it still smart. I definitely had enough though to crush it to the finish line.

I had finished -- everything had held up! 

 

Conclusion

So my time wasn't the fastest ever - but this was a moral victory.  I think if I had had a choice, I would've sat this race out, out of fear of my back giving me issues.  But I was all in after the first mile so long as my body would hold up.

This pancake flat course today was good to me.  I ran really well all things considered.  I just wish my calf hadn't blown up on me.  I have a feeling I could've taken off a bit more time.

I did wind up winning my age division.  There were quite a few friends of mine at the finish line, so it was social hour.

Post race snacks were cheese sticks, drink, oranges and granola bars.  I was looking for the ice cream sandwiches, but I didn't see any.  

Overall, it was a great morning for racing.  My time was for the most part, pedestrian, but anytime I can knock out the first 2 miles in under 8 minutes I am pleased.  I would definitely like a gimme on the final mile -- I think I could've done quite a bit better.

  

Upcoming Races

06/18: 2022 Lamoille Canyon Half Marathon - Lamoille, NV (Confirmed)

07/02: 2022 Riverton Country Mile 10K - Riverton, UT (Confirmed)

08/20: 2022 Provo Canyon to Pleasant Grove 10K - Lindon, UT (Confirmed)

10/01: 2022 Witch Run 10K - West Jordan, UT (Confirmed)

10/22: 2022 Haunted Emigration Canyon 5K - Salt Lake City (Confirmed)

10/29: 2022 Haunted Half Provo 5K - Provo, UT (Confirmed)

01/14: 2023 St George Half Marathon - St George, UT (Confirmed)

02/26: 2023 Las Vegas Half Marathon - Las Vegas, NV (Confirmed)

04/22: 2023 Salt Lake City Half Marathon - Salt Lake City, UT (Confirmed)

08/19: 2023 Rock 'N Roll Salt Lake City Half Marathon - Salt Lake City, UT (Confirmed)

2022 Riverton Fit for Life 5K Race Recap - Riverton, UT

Official Time: 24:45
Placement: 2nd in age group 25th overall
Results: Here
Race Website: Here
Weather: Low 60's, 12 mph winds from the south west
Garmin Dump: Here
Previous Years: [2021] [2018] [2015] [2014]

Mile	Time	Comments
1	7:32	Off to a very fast start. Aided by a hill.
2	7:53	Some head wind on the way back
3	8:44	Had to climb about .20 of a mile -- 80 feet climb
3.09	0:35	Crush it to the finish.
	Total Miles: 3.09 - 24:45

Introduction

One of the spring races that fall on my racing calendar is the Riverton Fit for Life Half Marathon and 5K.  It comes at just about a perfect time as far as the weather goes. However, the weather can be a wildcard.  It is usually windy -- as most Marches are in Utah and it can also snow or rain.

So signing up for this race when it is cheapest is definitely a gamble.  I usually pull the trigger sometime in January, getting a fully supported half marathon for around $40.

You may be wondering -- "hey Eddie, the title says 5K but you signed up for the half marathon. What's up?"

Well, every since the Winter Striders 10K, I've been dealing with some hip, lower back, hamstring problems.  Since the time I've injured it, I haven't really gone beyond 6 miles and downhill running seems to bother it immensely.  Also, I haven't run over 8 miles since Las Vegas. 

So my confidence in getting 13.1 miles done without have to resort to a walk was nearly nil.  Doing a 5K -- I could get through. Even if I had to walk.  So when I arrived at the race, I was able to quickly change from the half marathon to the 5K.  My ego took a hit, but I think my body thanked me.

The Race

I arrived at the race site and was quickly able to get my bib, shirt and was ready to race.  I took a test of the weather: it was breezy and warm.  I was suddenly glad I wasn't running the half marathon.  A good portion of the course is southward and fairly exposed, so I know I would've hit a lot of headwind in the middle miles.

I did a brief one mile warm-up and it quickly became apparent that I didn't feel bad at all. In fact, I felt really good.  What sore hip, hamstring and back?  Maybe I could've done the half marathon after all.

It's easier to spot myself in race photos with this shirt.

My race started promptly at 9:15 and I had told myself that I'd go out at about 10K pace and see what I had after that. Was I racing? I told myself no, but you know how that goes: once a racer, always a racer. 

Those plans were dashed pretty quickly as I blasted through the park, jockeying for a decent position as we headed towards a road that would take us to the bike trail.

The 5K is primary run through a residential area, past a golf course, and then dumping you onto the Jordan River bike trail.  The first 1.55 miles of it follows the half marathon course and I remembered many parts of it from the times I've run that edition.

The first mile is along residential streets along the golf course.  Just at about the mile position we head down a steep hill -- just shy of a quarter mile in length.  It is a paved switchback and here I was able to let gravity pull me down towards the Jordan River Bike Trail.  I had to hold back a little because of my back, but it seemed to be happy this morning.

By the time I hit the flats, I was still feeling fast.  I had run a solid 7:30 mile and now I had the wind at my back.  I felt like I was running really strong -- how could I not after having executed a fast mile and with a 10 mile per hour breeze at my back.

I wasn't terribly familiar with the 5K course but I recalled most of it from the times I've run the half marathon.  As we came to the first aid station, I glanced at my Garmin and saw that I was half way done with the race.

Over-striding for the win!

I saw the runner ahead of me touch (or come close to the aid station) and turn around.  I got the impression that we were supposed to run a loop around the aid station but I saw exactly no one doing it.  Turns out, we *were* supposed to run a loop around the aid station.  I (and most others) probably shortcut the course by a good 10 - 15 seconds as a result.

Turning around resulted in wind blowing into me, which dampened my spirits.  I tried to find someone to tuck in behind, but I was running solo for the most part.  Also the thought of climbing the hill back to the start had me worried. 

My next mile -- as a result -- was just shy of 8 minutes.  Still respectable, but without the tailwind and the massive downhill, my pace was right where it should be.  Could I manage a fast final mile?

I had measured the distance on the downhill and it was just shy of a quarter mile.  I recalled how many times I had done hill repeats up hills and if I dug deep, I could get up it and then hammer it home.  

The hill eventually came and I got over it.  It was slow going at first and once I got over the steepest part, I wound up overtaking those that had charged ahead of me.  I focused on my form and just getting over it without wasting a lot of energy and when it became less steep, I got my turnover going and pushed a little harder.

By the time I hit the top I hit my next gear and took off.  There weren't many runners behind me now and there weren't too many to try and pass but I bore down, calculating if I could still have a decent race.  I dropped a young woman who was working with me up the hill and it felt good as I got cheers and greetings from runners still heading out on the race.

I knew the rest of the way back to the finish line and the wind was no longer in my face.  Best of all, the remainder of the course was primarily flat.

I had lost a lot of time on the hill and facing a bit of a headwind in the initial part of mile 2 through 3, but I made up a lot of ground on it in the last half mile.  The final quarter mile was a bit tougher, as I had to run through the park's grass.

It was painful, but I got it done.  In the past, I might have given up on myself, but the times I've done quarter mile repeats and strides when I was hurting finally paid off.  I gave it max effort as I sprinted the last hundred yards.

Conclusion

I wound up crossing the finish line in a relatively disappointing 24:45.  It is hard to compare this race to others that I have done -- it was the first time I've run this course.

Despite my pedestrian time (for me) I felt like I had run pretty well.  I ran the flat / downhill parts strong, and did the best I could with the uphill part.  Best of all, my back and hip felt good throughout the race.  This won't go down as one of the best runs of 2022 for me, but I'll take it as a moral victory.

I came in 2nd place in my age division (the 50 - 54 for the half marathon was stacked with talent year).  Unfortunately, awards were only given to first overall.  I was a little miffed about the course confusion at the turn around -- also I was told that the top 3 males all ran a good portion of the half marathon and as a result never placed.

I paid about $40 for the race -- expensive for a 5K -- but a bargain for a half marathon.  I was incredibly sad not to be able to run the half, but my back, hips and my endurance weren't to be trusted that morning.  I still got a nice shirt, a timed race, a well organized race, and a ton of post race snacks at the end.  Plus a pretty nice finisher's medal.  Plus I had a ton of friends there to socialized with.  With the beautiful weather, it was just a great morning for comradery and running.

They also had plenty of free photos to borrow as well.

I am glad I didn't follow my ego on this race and force myself through a half marathon.  I have a feeling I wouldn't have lasted more than 6 to 8 miles.  I was able to make the most of the race, succeed at it and not pay too much of a price physically on it.

Overall, I was really happy with my experience from start to finish.  I plan on being here next year -- once again to try the half marathon.

Upcoming Races

04/16: 2022 Eggs Legs 10K - West Jordan, UT (Confirmed)

04/23: 2022 Salt Lake City Half Marathon - Salt Lake City, UT (Confirmed)

05/01: 2022 Reno Half Marathon - Reno, NV (Confirmed)

06/18: 2022 Lamoille Canyon Half Marathon - Lamoille, NV (Confirmed)

07/02: 2022 Riverton Country Mile 10K - Riverton, UT (Confirmed)

08/20: 2022 Provo Canyon to Pleasant Grove 10K - Lindon, UT (Confirmed)

10/01: 2022 Witch Run 10K - West Jordan, UT (Confirmed)

10/22: 2022 Haunted Emigration Canyon 5K - Salt Lake City (Confirmed)

10/29: 2022 Haunted Half Provo 5K - Provo, UT (Confirmed)

02/26: 2023 Las Vegas Half Marathon - Las Vegas, NV (Confirmed)

2022 Lucky 13 10K Race Recap - West Jordan, UT

Official Time: 48:43
Placement: 1st in the 50-55 15th overall
Results:  Here
Race Website: Here
Weather: 45F, 15mph winds from the south
Garmin Dump: Here
Previous Years: [2021] [2019] [2018] [2014]

Mile	Time	Comments
1	8:12	Hemmed in a bit but tucked in and biding my time with the headwind
2	8:12
3	8:11	Consistency
4	7:59	Got some nice tailwind here. Can I take advantage of it?
5	8:13	Quarter mile here of into the wind. Sort of sucked the life out of me.
6	7:58	Crushing it to the finish
	Total Miles: 6.00 - 48:46

Introduction

During the Black Friday sales around Thanksgiving time, I wound up signing up for the Lucky 13 race - a St Patrick's Day themed race (of sorts).  I've done it pretty much every year since it's inception (It took a break it would seem after the inaugural 2014 race).   It is a local race that is held at a local shopping area in West Jordan -- just a few miles down the road from where I live.  

The course itself is held on the Jordan River Bike Trail and I'll be honest, I've run along the trail more times than I can count.  It is actually my training ground.  It seems weird to pay for a race that I can run on at any time but as someone who loves to race, it is like competing on my "home" court.  On the plus side, as well, there is no course anxiety -- I know it and where it goes.

The Race

I wound up getting my bib the day before the race. The packet pickup was at the Gardner Village shopping center. Running there was a bit of a shakeout run -- 1.5 miles each way.  It helped me avoid the lines and any stress about getting my bib / shirt.

I showed up about 45 minutes before the race, parked and went to the race start.  Normally, the race starts and finishes at a common area in the mall.  But the city is doing sewer work and the walkway from the center to the bike trail was blocked off.

The race started at a clearing about .15 miles from the normal start of the race.  It was windy and chilly but temperature-wise -- great running weather.  Also, unlike last year, the air was dry and not a downpour.  I missed the clean bathroom that the shopping center provided, and I am also happy the air and ground were dry.  It could've been a quagmire.

There were 3 races: 5K, 10K, and half marathon.  The half started at 9 AM and each other race started 15 minutes later.  My 10K started at 9:15 and I was off and running after a very brief warm-up.

I half figured that today wasn't going to be a personal record day.  It was too windy, but I could make a good effort and see what sort of time I could turn in.  My goal was to go out at a dedicated 10K pace (low 8's) and then give it all I had on the way back with the tailwind.

The wind, while strong, wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be.  However, I was running with a fellow who was a bit bigger than me and running a little faster.  I wound up tailing him for a the first mile or 2 -- using him as a shield.  The strategy seemed to work -- holding onto a 8:12 pace for the first two miles.  I couldn't ask for a better time as far as what I wanted to accomplish.

The course is run along the Jordan River Parkway and is a paved, multi-use bike trail.  You are surrounded by scrub, shrubs and of course the north-flowing Jordan River.  It isn't the most scenic course, but it does have its charm -- and it is as flat as it can be.

However, all good things must end and eventually the runner started to pull ahead.  I was really hurting as I approached mile 3.  The wind had taken a lot out of me and the pace was now getting harder.  I couldn't wait to turn around.

The turn around was at the 2nd age station.  I was a little dismayed that it was at 3.03 miles.  I think if the course had been run from the shopping center, it would've been close to a legit 3.10 miles.

As soon as I turned around, the wind stopped and I felt a sense of renewed energy. Finally! 

It was empowering to get some cheers and greets from the 10K runners behind me.  I didn't see anyone in my age group (from my best guesses) anywhere close to me.  But still, I've been wrong about age before and while the last few miles I didn't see another person behind me, I still wanted to try and catch the runner ahead of me.

I did hit a stretch of head wind around mile 4.25.  It seemed like the longest half mile as I ran west near the Sandy City Golf Course.  The wind had been blowing form the south and also evidently from the west.  There was absolutely no way to take shelter.  Hence my mile 4 to 5 time is a bit of a dip.

I knew I was getting close to the finish when I got to the 5K turn around.  I was working on navigating my way through the multitude of 5K runners.  It was also encouraging to speed past the 5K participants.  As a racer, I really do enjoy feeling like an "elite" athlete -- although I am anything but of course.

The final mile I was pushing hard.  While I knew the course was short and no one was behind me, I knew I could calculate what a "real" 6.2 mile race would equate to.  I was loving the tailwind and I was still feeling strong, despite some occasional moments when I thought my heart would jump out of my chest.

Finally I jumped over the final bridge and hauled it to the finish line.  It was a bit disheartening to see that the finishing arch had come down  -- presumably from the wind but I crossed in 48:43 for 6 miles.

Looking a little windblown.

Conclusion

It is never really satisfying not to know your time for an official course.  But running calculators estimate my finishing time of 50:30-ish.  You just never know what final push I could muster up to shave a few more seconds off of it.  This is definitely a sold performance -- despite the difficult circumstances.

Either way, I finished first in my age group and 15th overall.  And to be honest, I felt fantastic when I finished.  Sure I was tired, but I still felt like I had run a nice race -- my splits were the most consistent they've been in a long time.

Post race refreshments included drink and ice cream sandwiches and fruit.  It was chilly but I managed to get 2 100 calorie ice creams down.  My car was parked a bit away, but I trekked over to it and grabbed warmer clothes and my phone.  By the time I got back, awards were being doled out.  

I really like the finisher / awards medals.  They are heavy and well designed. I love t-shirts, but I like the 100% polyester ones.  This was a blended one.  It will go into my St Patrick's themed race shirts collection (I have a ton of them).

Overall, I was happy with my experience.  $30 for a supported / timed 10K race isn't a bad deal.  It was also fun and I got to see a bunch of local running friends.  I'll likely run this race again next year.

March 2022 Running Update

Miles Year to Date: 330 (3/13/2022)

Running Update

Training this year has been good.  I am averaging around 25 - 35 miles per week, with a max of 40.  A little light for my liking but still good enough to maintain half marathon endurance and yet have energy to work on my speed.

I admit, I race too much and this has gotten in the way of extra-long runs and prepping multiple times a week for races.  So I have to count my races as speed workouts too.

Injury-wise I am holding up okay.  A little bit of plantar fasciitis at times but it is still manageable. I am dealing with some hip pain, which erupted a week or two ago and flared up at yesterday's race.  I went for a shake out run this morning and it again made itself known. I had to do a 1.5 mile walk back home.  I am hoping it isn't serious.  It doesn't hurt for ordinary activities -- only when I run.

I am hoping it doesn't derail me too much.

Diet and Sleep

Normally, my sleep would be pretty good.  I go to bed at the same time each night -- about 9 PM.  Sleep is one of the most fundamental recovery tools.  I'll get up just a hair before 6 AM to start my day at 7 AM.

Unfortunately my sleep isn't the best.  It would be described as fitful at best.  I managed about 6 or 6.5 hours, which is definitely less than the recommended 8.  I try different schedules and patterns to no avail.  I think this is a key thing to work on.

My diet is still light years ahead of where it was in the winter of 2020.  I am still down about 10 - 15 pounds.  My scale tells me a different story each day.  When I do consistently get readings where I am a bit heavier than usual, it is a message for me to dial back the sweets and chips and get more vegetables.  I am refraining from eating out -- although I did have some high-calorie meals in Las Vegas.  But maintaining a healthy weight and eating the right food has definitely given me the energy to complete tough workouts.

Upcoming Races

03/19: 2022 Lucky 13 - 10K - West Bountiful, Utah (Confirmed)

03/26: 2022 Riverton Half Marathon - Riverton, UT (Confirmed)

04/16: 2022 Eggs Legs 10K - West Jordan, UT (Confirmed)

04/23: 2022 Salt Lake City Half Marathon - Salt Lake City, UT (Confirmed)

05/01: 2022 Reno Half Marathon - Reno, NV (Confirmed)

06/18: 2022 Lamoille Canyon Half Marathon - Lamoille, NV (Confirmed)

07/02: 2022 Riverton Country Mile 10K - Riverton, UT (Confirmed)

08/20: 2022 Provo Canyon to Pleasant Grove 10K - Lindon, UT (Confirmed)

10/01: 2022 Witch Run 10K - West Jordan, UT (Confirmed)

10/22: 2022 Haunted Emigration Canyon 5K - Salt Lake City (Confirmed)

10/29: 2022 Haunted Half Provo 5K - Provo, UT (Confirmed)

02/26: 2023 Las Vegas Half Marathon - Las Vegas, NV (Confirmed)

2022 Winter Striders 10K Race Recap - Ogden, UT

Official Time: 54:36
Placement: 3rd in the 50 - 54, 33rd overall
Results: Here
Race Website:Here
Weather: Mid 40's -- no wind.
Garmin Dump:  Here

Previous Years:  [2017] [2016] [2015]

Mile	Time	Comments
1	8:10	Decent start -- some rolling hills.
2	9:21	Okay already things are getting hard
3	9:21	Not letting up at all
4	7:36	If only the race was like this the entire time. Fast downhill.
5	9:44	Did a flat loop and then have to climb back up a steep hill.
6	9:54	80% of this mile was up hill. I actually did pretty well.
6.07	0:29	Downhill to the finish. Last quarter mile or so was fun.
Total Miles: 6.07 - 54:37

Introduction

It's been a while since I've been to Ogden to run one of their race series.  Half a decade ago, I was a regular at their races.  The past couple of years though, I've had race conflicts, Covid-delays, or just too many races and not enough recovery to make the drive up there and participate.

This past weekend, I didn't have a race on my calendar.  I had some options -- drive down to Southern Utah and participate down there or sit it out.  I wanted to race but didn't want to spend the money and make the drive to Southern Utah -- having just been down there 2 weeks ago.

I had resigned myself to not racing and getting in a training run, which I was fine with.  However, I started hitting up some of my friends for ideas and discovered that the Winter Striders had their 10K.  I figured why not -- an easy drive, get the race done and maybe grab some food up there.  Sounded like a fun morning.  So I fired up the old web browser and signed myself up.

The Race

So the race is part of the Ogden Marathon series.  They have a 5K, 10K, half marathon and 30K designed to train you for the Ogden Marathon.  They also have a short course for those doing the half marathon.  In the past, they were well attended and extremely competitive.

I hadn't been there for a race of theirs (other than the Ogden Marathon) in quite some time.  The 10K course had changed and I noticed a bit less people.  Also there were no age group awards for this race (only for the entire series).  The course, in my opinion, was a lot harder then the predecessor, but still enjoyable and scenic.

I got there at 7 AM for the 8 AM start, grabbed my bib, used the potties a few times and did a quick mile shake out run. It was chilly but not awful -- with no wind.  I wound up wearing shorts, thin gloves and a long-sleeved tech shirt.  I also tossed on my skullcap running hat.  I was pretty happy with my running choices.

The race started on time and I was off running.  I had studied the new course a bit and I definitely remembered the 10 mile race which I had run a few years ago.  This course shared some of the same streets -- so I knew I was going to be in for a challenging race.

Sure enough, the first mile included a lot of rolling hills.  I felt comfortable as I started the race and told myself to be patient.  I had some idea of how the course was laid out, but I had a few surprises coming at me.  I was very happy with an 8:10 first mile. But how much slower was I was going to go?

Mile 2 and 3 hurt -- badly. I knew I wasn't even going to come close to last week's blistering 10K time of 50:34.  The hills were relentless.  Occasionally, I was treated to a downhill section, but primarily we were climbing.  None of the hills were back breakers but they were definitely hills.  I was gassed and sort of saddened to see 9:21 miles pop up.  I was running faster than that for my half marathon!

Finally we got to the highest point of the race and I galloped down Skyline Drive.  A steep downhill section.  I was flying.  Another guy next to me thanked me for pacing him and I said hang on tight, we gotta go up this thing on the way back.  I don't think he believed me.

The views were beautiful and I nailed a 7:36 pace.  Wow!  The problem was that I had some extreme muscle soreness in my left lower lumbar.  It lit up the side of my hip and lower back.  It hurt.  I cursed to myself more than once.  I wanted to take advantage of the downhill more fully, but every downhill section it let me know it was upset with me.  

After making it to the bottom of the hill, we had to do a flat section.  My legs were pretty gassed and the issue with my back turned to a dull roar.  It actually wasn't bad when I was running uphill or the flats.  And I was still holding a decent pace for the flat sections.  My endurance was still good.

However, the final 2 miles were all up the hill I had hit a 7:30 on, on the way down.  The first section around mile 4.25 was the worst and it seemed like everyone was walking or huffing and puffing hunched over.  I just worked on my turnover, kept a good form and worked my way up the hill.

The course was a loop and it was great to receive some cheers from those making their way down the hill.

At this point, I knew the way back to the finish line and I knew what lay ahead.  The hill -- that lasted well over a mile -- got a bit easier the further I ascended.  I could almost smell the finish line from about half a mile away and my turnover quickened.  I still had plenty left despite some fatigue in my legs.

Upon cresting the hill, I had a section of mostly flat / downhill.  Collectively, the runners around me sped up and our 9:45 pace suddenly dipped back into "real" 10K pace. 

There were no age group awards and I hadn't participated in the 5K race for this, so I wasn't eligible for any awards.  But still, my ego was on the line.  I pressed onwards and smashed the last quarter mile.  I flew under the finish line -- not feeling totally dead, but relieved I had gotten through this race.

Conclusion

So I ran a 54:30 -- a full 4 minutes slower than last week's flat race.  Granted, this race -- according to my Garmin had 700+ feet of elevation climb.  And the elevation was a bit higher.  Definitely not conducive for a personal record race.

None the less, harder races build character and everyone else had to run the same course as I did.  I sort of checked around what other people usually ran a 10K in and my time was in line with what others who finished near me were capable of.

The race set me back $33.  I got a t-shirt, a timed race with results, course support, and coffee / Hostess products at the end.  It was also a fun time with great weather.  I had registered the week of the race, so I wasn't expecting any bargains.  Overall, I was happy with my experience.

After the race I socialized and checked in with a variety of people and just enjoyed the crisp morning air. I didn't know anyone there -- I don't usually race much in Ogden, but runners tend to be a social bunch, so it was easy to chat other people up.

I am at a loss to say whether I ran well compared to other times I've done this race.  The 3 other times are easily comparable.  But this route only shared maybe 40% of the original 10K.  In looking at previous races, it would seem that there was less elevation climb than this one.  Still, it's hard to compare definitively.  

I am just happy to finish strong and get in a tough run in.  The hills build character!  Now, I just need to fix my back!

2022 March Madness 10K Race Recap - Woods Cross, UT

Official Time: 50:34
Placement: 3rd overall, 1st in the 50 - 54
Results: Here
Race Website: Here
Weather: Mid 40's, slight wind from the south
Garmin Dump: Here
Previous Years: [2021] [2020] [2018] [2017] [2016]

Mile	Time	Comments
1	7:59	A little fast but had a slight downhill
2	7:59	Settling into the race. Still feeling good
3	8:06	Finally the turn around -- let off the gas a little
4	8:06	Still fairly consistent but I am definitely hurting
5	8:17
6	8:36	Slight incline. No one to work with.
6.20	1:29	Push to the finish
	Total Miles: 13:05 - 1:53:49

Introduction

For the last half dozen years I've done the March Madness race in Bountiful - about 25 minutes north of where I live.  The location almost always changes every year (to some degree or another) but the race is the same -- a 5K, 10K or half marathon for a bargain basement price -- generally less than $30 for the half and about $20 for the 5K / 10K.

The race also supports the Bountiful Food Pantry, so the money raised supports that organization.

This year, the race was held at West Bountiful Park.  A few years ago, this was the race's headquarters and it moved a time or two to other locations near the Legacy Bike Trail. So large swatches of it remain consistently the same I've run the course (or variations of it) many times over the years in various weather conditions: from rain, gale force winds, to generally mild March weather.

The Race

I arrived at the park about an hour before the race and quickly grabbed my bib.  I made a few trips to the bathroom, did a short warm-up and declared myself ready to race.

I am in green under the arch.

Going into the race, I told myself I was racing it but definitely not all out,  My legs were still beat up from last weekend's half marathon and I definitely didn't feel 100% as far as racing went.  I still suited up for the event -- wearing my racing shoes (Saucony FastTwitches), light gloves, shorts and a t-shirt.  For appearances sake, I was in race mode.

The race started promptly at 9 AM and I lined up about 10 people behind the lead back and started running.

The race had about 200 people (the park's limit) and the participants were running one of three races: the 5K, 10K or half marathon.  It was hard to tell who was running what race but I just worked on keep a low 8 minute per mile pace as I made my way west towards the Legacy Bike Trail.

It took a little over a mile to reach the bike trail and I was hitting what I wanted to.  Despite my reluctance to run really hard, I felt it was easy to hit slightly above my target pace.  The first two miles went well -- 7:59s.  But could I hold onto this pace?

Stretch of Legacy Bile Trail -- approximately mile 1.33

The speedier 5K runners were already headed back and now I was running with the half marathoners and faster 10K runners.  As I got deeper into the 10K I saw a few lead runners heading back.  I don't think I made much of a mental note of how many of them that there were but there weren't that many.  It just looked like I was the only one over 40.

Leaving the Trail and heading back to the park

I reached the turn around point after hitting an 8:06 mile (I was slowing down a bit).  I looked over my shoulder to see if anyone was following me back towards the start line, only to discover that I was running solo.  I could barely make out another 10K runner ahead of me and I didn't see anyone behind me.  Was this it?

I was still feeling pretty strong but I had my doubts that I could hold the pace that I was running. Usually after the turn around is where the pain sets in and you know it is going to get worse.  It takes a lot of focus to maintain the pace.  But at the same time, with no competition, I let myself drop my pace a bit. 

As I made my way back, I was given words of encouragement from those behind me.  I felt like an elite athlete as I powered through another 8:06 mile despite the head wind.  While I was grateful, no one was behind me, I think I needed someone to scare me to not let up.

One of the spectators along the course.

I definitely had to dig deep from mile 4 to 5.  I kept willing myself forward.  If only I could get off the bike trail and onto the neighborhood streets again, I'd be so close (yet, I still had another mile to go once I hit that point)  The bike trail is mostly flat, but it isn't super scenic as traffic from the Legacy Freeway whizzed by me and all I wanted to do was see Pages Lane again -- at least then I'd know I was getting close.

The last mile is a bit uphill.  I knew it would be and it isn't anything substantial, but it wears you down.  Mile 5 is always the toughest of a 10K and I was still shocked that I couldn't see anyone behind me and once in a while I could make out another runner well into the distance ahead of me.  I still had no idea where I was in overall placement, but I figured I had my age group pretty well sealed.

Some of the spectators along the course.

Occasionally I passed some 5K walkers, which was motivating but again, I was running solo  I was dismayed and not entirely surprised to see an 8:30 mile come up on my watch as I lumbered towards the final quarter mile.

Despite not having any competition, I really pushed hard the last 90 seconds.  If anything, I could impress myself with a sprint-to-the-finish photo at the end.  I think I closed the final .2 of a mile at 5K pace.  It turns out I did have a bit more in me than I thought I did.

Crossing the finish line.

Conclusion

I crossed the finish line in a hair above 50:30.  The course was certified and measured 6.20 miles on my watch - so definitely a legitimate time.  Despite feeling pretty beat up before the race, I ran extremely well.  I had predicted I would finish in the 51's, so finishing nearly a minute faster felt good.

I was immediately handed a glass 3rd plate overall.  I knew they gave out prizes almost immediately upon crossing the finish line, but I was pleasant surprised to get this even cooler award (in the past they've given out mugs).  I also didn't think I would be recognized for 3rd overall -- I knew I had the age group win in hand though.  So definitely a bonus.

Plate, medal and smiling runner

The race had some snacks and I wound up socializing for a bit afterwards.  They had predicted some dire weather forecasts for the day, but all in all, it turned out to be a great day for running.  Mid 40's for temperature and only a slight breeze.  I know in the past I've run this race in gale force winds.

This race continues to be a bargain and one that I always put on my calendar each March.  It is cheap, well supported and professionally done.  The stakes are pretty low but I still enjoy it and it makes for a great test of fitness.  It is also a wonderful social event in that many runners of all abilities are able to participate and have fun.

Plate and finisher's medal.