Not sure why, but July in Virginia Beach typically means a drop off in the number of weekend races. Luckily we have a great series of races put on by the local running club that take place every Tuesday evening in July at the beautiful Norfolk Botanical Garden.
Tomorrow is the first Summer Series event – the Countdown 4 Miler – and is traditionally a lot of fun. Here’s how it works:
The race clock will start at 60 minutes and begin counting down. You pick when you want to start the 4 mile run with the goal of crossing the finish line when the clock strikes zero. Everyone should finish together!
My plan tomorrow is to arrive early at the Botanical Garden, run my specific McMillan marathon training workout and then run the Countdown 4 Miler at around 7:00 to 7:10 pace – probably starting when the clock reaches 28:30. The usual problem is getting talked into running faster than necessary and waiting until the last minute before starting the four miles. Not tomorrow though, I promise….
It’s a really fun event (no official results are published) and a great way to spend a Tuesday evening. The finish line is usually the most crowded finish line you’ll ever experience too!
The Series is FREE to Tidewater Strider members (sign up at the event if you’re not a member) and starts at 6:30pm. Random prizes and gift certificates from Running Etc. will be given at each event to registered runners and volunteers. Food (fruit and pizza) and liquid refreshments (beer and soda) will also be available.
Note: there is a fee of $1.00 per person to enter the Norfolk Botanical Garden
Possible explanation: Perhaps people are away on vacation, or lounging on the beach instead of running on it? 😉
Good luck, Steve! Sounds like a really fun race.
This race sounds very people friendly. Regardless of your physical condition you can partake. This would seem to be more effective and motivating to some people who are just starting out in their healthier lifestyles.