The Elusive under 30 minute 5K

Today marked the 3rd Annual Doggie Dash held in the Southwood Community. The Florida Department of Corrections sponsors the race each year. It was an extremely well organized event which I appreciate. This is a race I look forward to running again next year.

My goal today was to come in under the 30 minute mark for this 5K. Earlier in the week Scott ran the course in preparation for his 8K so I knew it was fairly flat. This seemed like a great opportunity to push for that 30 minute mark. After snapping a few photos with all our friends at the start line, we were ready! The race started promptly at 9:00am. As we expected it was flat, only one hill for the 5K - YAY! I felt great the entire race. Legs were holding up really good and I felt like I was headed for a strong finish. As we made the turn at the 2.5 mile mark I had the pleasure of running beside a friend daughter, Lauren. As I rounded the corner at the finish line and saw the clock said 29:55. I pushed hard to get there by 30:00 but the clock read 30:09:00 when I stepped across the timing pad. This is still a PR and I finished in the top half overall! I quickly grabbed a bottle of water and my cute little dog tag/medal. I returned to the finish line to cheer on the rest of my MRTT friends, my hubby and my best friend.

One by one they all started coming in, everyone was smiling! Noone more so than Crystal. She had set a goal for herself and thanks to me she was running her 5k today minus compression sleeves. She ran the entire 3.1 miles without stopping and came in under her goal with very little pain in her legs!! I was worried that her shins would act up without the compression sleeves, she proved that she can do anything she set her mind to. Great Job Crystal!

This proved to be a great course, a great run and a great morning for ALL! Another weekend of PR's for the group! Scott finished his first 8K in 47:46. He was pleased with his time and his placement in the overall standings.

 Here's a few highlights from the Doggie Dash

Run for God

Logan, Becca, Gina and Scott all had a great 8K run!!

My sweet friend Lauren, Great job today!

My Hubby! You rocked today!

MRTT Group Shot - Post Race

My girl, Crystal, rocking that dog tag!

We missed our 3rd BRB today!

 

Now we have a two week break before the Springtime 5K (or maybe we will push for the 10K). Hopefully, Riley will be back in the swing of things with us well. My legs are feeling great! I will be a little cautious with them over the next two weeks but overall I am feeling good!

 

Can't wait to hear about everyone's weekend runs!

Mitzi