Race Recap: Paint The Towne 5K 11/5/17

Sunday 11/5/17 was the Paint the Towne 5k race at Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach. This was also the third event in the Daytona Running Series. I've heard great things about this race from fellow runners, and it certainly did not disappoint.

Pre-Race Goals
I certainly didn't have the best training week last week. My legs were more sore than usual, and I had a hard time meeting my mileage goals. I also happened to eat bad all week (county fair food bad). I knew I could only set a reasonable time goal of around 21:10.

Mile 1  6:34
This November morning in Florida was a hot one which meant it would be even tougher to meet any goal. I didn't feel fast during this mile. I felt tired and unable to keep up with the strong runners. My best races are when my first mile is around 6:20, but this was not one of those times.

Mile 2  7:01
The first part of mile 2 wasn't eventful until BAM out of nowhere I tripped (over gravel I think?) and fell on flat on my face. I've fallen running sidewalks before but never on a clear road and never during a race. I didn't have time for that to slow me down, so I quickly rose to my feet, checked for injuries and just kept going. I only bruised a little (my knees and my pride) nothing severe or especially painful.  I couldn't slow down now, or I would lose any lead I had. 

Mile 3  7:07
I was a little shaken from my fall but tried not to get it get to me. Subconsciously it was hard to run at full speed, but I told myself not to use any excuse and finish strong. 

Mile .10  6:14
I knew there was someone right behind me, so I had to speed up as soon as I saw the finisher clock. It was in the late 20-minute range so pretty much on target with what I expected. I was able to keep my lead despite not having much left in the tank. 

Final Thoughts
A far cry from a PR, but on target with my race day goal nonetheless. I will take it especially considering all the craziness that went on with my fall which shows how important it is to be adaptive to all situations that come at you. The course through historic Old Daytona was lovely; everyone was right about this race being one of the best locally. 

The Swag
Long Sleeve race shirts are a favorite among runners because they are rare, so I'm excited every time I get one. I liked it so much I bought last year's shirt for $3 at the start. The finisher medals were so nice and went along with the theme of Paint the Towne. The award plaques were stunning, and I received a Bonefish gift card, movie ticket, and running store gift card for my overall win. Our goody bags had these yummy, cookie protein bars  that I need to buy. This race gets an A+ for swag that's for sure. 

Results
Time: 21:17
Pace: 6:51
Overall: 11th out of 141
1st Place Overall Female