I did just run the Rock the Block 10k over the Memorial Day weekend. It was a tough day, but good news is that I was still able to manage my way to a medal!
I wish in college I had learned how to make a proper collage.
As I mentioned in my preview, I was not looking forward to running this race course. I’d run it before and wasn’t a huge fan. Well, be careful what you wish for. Due to all the crazy stormy floody weather we’ve been having in Texas, the course was part underwater. But rather than cancel, the organizers scrambled to get a new certified course.
Look closely folks, the 10k is a two lap course.
First off, kudos to the race for not cancelling, and finding an alternate route. But unfortunately the new route was a 5k distance that we had to run twice. There’s nothing more demoralizing than crossing the finish line and realizing you’re only halfway done. And on the 2nd lap of the race, we hit all the people still trying to finish the 5k. That meant a lot of weaving and missing out on tangents. Throw in a few hills and 180 degree turns, and it was a bit challenging.
Before the race with two normal sized friends and a miniature sized one.
The weather was also a factor. 97% humidity. Ugh. It was like running through pea green soup. Legs felt heavy and when the breeze was at our backs, it was hard to breathe. I saw one guy puking about a mile in. And through a middle section of the race it started to rain on us which made the roads a bit slick.
That all said, I was able to push through and finish 3rd in my age group and 14th overall!
Official stats.
I was hoping to break my PR of 46:00 that I set one year ago, but it wasn’t meant to be. I finished in 46:32, or 7:29 per mile. And I was proud of myself for actually rocking a negative split (I lost those stats doe).
I’ll get you next time, two guys I don’t know!
Not only that, but my peeps from WRRC and TNSR also received age group awards!
Bringing home da bling.
So despite the tough conditions, we had a great time. And they raised a lot of fundage for a good cause.
And best of all, we all went for breakfast tacos after the race!
Racing, medals & tacos…I’ll take it anytime!
How bout you? Race this weekend? Your tips for humidity running? It’s been so long, can anyone tell me what the sun looks like?
-Scott
Piratebobcat 