First 5k

Before the Race

I COMPLETED MY FIRST 5K!!!  It was held at Water's Edge on June 2nd at 7:30am, as mentioned in my previous post.  I was SO nervous that I wouldn't be able to run at all because of my shin splints being so bad.  I did a lot of stretching and a little jogging before the run started which I think greatly contributed.

The run started off great!  It's SO different running with such a large group.  It distracts you from the fatigue and/or pain which makes you want to just keep going.  This particular 5K path was up one road, turning around half way, and running back past the other joggers to where it began.  The last mile, for me anyway, was rough.  I started to get a little fatigued and wondered if the finish line was anywhere near...lol!

After the Race

I'm TOTALLY satisfied with my performance being my first 5K and only have been running for about a month at this point.  I ran 3.12 miles in 37:50 minutes at a 12'07"/mi pace.  For those of you reading this thinking "Oh I'd never be able to keep up with my friends or my friends would never be able to keep up with me."  THAT'S OKAY!  I didn't keep up with Amy as she's been running for a year now and has already done a half marathon.  Even though I was surrounded by people I ran the run by myself at my own pace.  I had my headphones in, rocking out to my favorite music and it was great!  We started together and met again at the finish line.  If you're thinking about trying a 5K then DO IT!  I didn't run the whole time and I certainly wasn't last.  Even if you were to come in last, at least you're out there doing it and trying!

After the race there were complimentary massages!!!  Talk about spoiling me right off the bat!  I was told that's definitely not the norm at these runs though :-(

I'm so happy I tried the 5K and am very much looking forward to my next one!