Ran the first ever Bellator Wounded Warrior 5K to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, a national organization supporting wounded veterans. The race started on the boardwalk at Neptune Park on 31st Street and attracted over 700 runners/walkers – quite impressive for a first time event, and several hundred more than than the race director initially expected.
With so many late entrants and several announcements to get through, the race was delayed slightly and didn’t get underway until 9:15am – not a huge problem, but I did find myself getting thirsty as we waited in the sunshine.
Finally we were on our way, heading south on the boardwalk towards the turn around point at 9th Street. I guarantee you won’t find a flatter, straighter 5k course anywhere and all you can really do is focus on your form and count down the streets. The first mile came in at 5:37, and despite the slight headwind, felt pretty easy.
I reached the halfway mark still feeling good and in second place overall after passing several of the quick-out-of-blocks younger runners. The slight tailwind on the way back felt good and it was reassuring to see the third place guy about 20-25 seconds back. Mile two was also quite quick (5:40), but with no hope of catching the leader I decided to ease off slightly and save something for Sunday’s duathlon.
The third mile split was still under six minute per mile pace (5:54) and I coasted home for a 17:39 finish.
For a first time event, everything appeared to go smoothly and everyone seemed to have a good time. Before I publish this post, a special mention to my wife Ally who ran a great race and comfortably won the 40-49 age group! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – all the hot yoga Ally’s doing is making her stronger, more flexible and a better runner and I guess it was quite apt that Zen Hot Yoga were one of the race sponsors! Maybe I should give it a go…..
Race photo: TriDuo Sports Photography