Yesterday, I ran the Hatfield 5 and Dime race. I've run this race for the last 2 years (although doing the 10 mile distance previously). I've scaled back my milelage this year and have only been doing short runs (i.e. less than 6 miles) since the Disney Half.
The Hatfield Hat Trick series is one of my favorites...flat, great amenities, and local! The course is a short 15 minute drive, has ample parking, indoor restrooms, good food, and a great DJ.
I wasn't expecting much in terms of my performance yesterday. I had been struggling lately to even high 10:30s on my 3 mile runs. A few of the runs were in the 11 minute per mile pace and one even crossed the 12 minute per mile pace. I seriously contemplated giving up running after that debacle of a run.
Yesterday's weather was perfect...50s and slightly cloudy. I started near the back of the field since the race is chip timed. I went out strong and was pleased to see 9:30 as my pace at mile 1. I was hoping just to keep it under a 10 minute mile...but didn't really expect to since I knew how slow my training runs had been. I promised myself I would only look at my watch at mile markers. Mile 2 came up and revealed a 9:32 average pace. The miles ticked away quickly and before I knew it I was at Mile 3. A quick glance revealed a 9:36 average pace. I was stunned...it didn't even feel like I was working that hard. Mile 4 was next and I was still holding a 9:36. At this point, I broke out into a huge smile, told myself I had this in the bag, and took off. I crossed the line at 47:32...holy crap...I just ran 5 miles at a 9:30 per mile average pace! SO PROUD!
Gotta love any day that starts with a PR!
