So, we signed up for the Celtic Solstice 5 Miler as our December race. We had been doing the Jingle Bell 5k the last couple of years, and I will admit, I kinda missed running with bells on. But, sometimes you have to sacrifice...
We got up really early...5:30 am....to get to the race area in time to pick up our shirts, bibs, and tags. With it being about an hour from home, it was an early start.
We got there and I was nervous because it seemed like we parked soooooo far away from the start. But, we got there, grabbed our stuff, and realized there was a bag check. Doh! Since we didn't have time to drop our stuff off at the car, I tied my beautiful new shirt around my waist. It worked especially since I could push it up under my jacket. LOL!
We hit the port-a-potties, then got in line. It wasn't a bad wait. A bit chilly, but really not all that bad. The start of the race is pretty cool. As I was standing in my spot at the back of the pack, I heard bagpipers and people parting to form an open path. And next thing I see is two gentlemen with bagpipes leading the way.
Following the bagpipers were two massive dogs, Wolf Hounds I believe. They were taller than my hip! They seemed friendly enough though. They were in the finishers tent afterwards and seemed very happy. I'm thinking it's from all the attention they were getting!
Shortly after they went past, we got ourselves back together and the race started! Took a couple minutes to get to the start, then it was up the hill.
I did not realize how hilly this race would be. It is part of the course for the Dreaded Druid Hill 10k, which is promoted as the hilliest race you will run. Hubby ran that back in May and did great! But, after running this race, I realize the Dreaded Druid Hill 10k is not for me. LOL! This is just one of the hills involved.
I walked more of this race than I wanted to. The hills got me. At one point I had to stop and get to the side because I had a post-nasal drip issue that kept me from breathing. I thought how embarrassing would it be to die from post-nasal drip at the race than from a race-related issue? Yea, I think these things when I'm all by myself.
After all the hills, you run around this nice little lake. We had about a mile to go and I thought there is no way this race is really 5 miles. The lake looked way too big!
But, turns out it was about right. After going around the lake, you run down the hill you ran up at the beginning. Ahhhh....so nice.... Our friend Ada came to cheer us on at the end and got this great action shot as I came to the finish line. Brian and Ada say I was booking it. I felt like I was running in molasses...or maybe egg nog (in honor of the season).
Afterwards, we all headed into the tent for post-race festivities. We had yummy hot wassail wine from Boordy Vineyards, delicious cookies from I have no idea who, and a glazed donut from Ada!
I was very happy with my race. I felt like I was slow the whole time, but Garmin said I was at 1:05:45 for 5 miles (best 5 mile time EVER!) and the final race chip time was 1:06:24 (2 seconds slower than my previous 5 mile time). So, either way you look at it, a good run. :-)
Afterwards we headed to IHOP for breakfast. Had a great breakfast with Brian and Ada and yummy food!
For anyone who wants a challenge and a great shirt with post-race festivities, go for this race. I may even do it again next year! LOL!
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