NHTI 5k

 Quick turnaround from racing last weekend to racing on Friday night. I think this is the shortest time between races in the CARS (Capital Area Race Series). I don't do well racing at night since I'm usually asleep by 7pm. Friday started as usual with a 6m run at 430am. I followed that with my usual lunch run at 1130am. I was feeling a bit tired (maybe I ran a bit too hard on Thursday?), I kept the pace in control and spotted the lucky white squirrel as I closed out the run.

After work I drove up to Concord with a quick stop for a haircut. I was still among the first to arrive for the race. I got organized, got my number, and did some extra hydrating as the 70 degree temps and sun made it feel warmer than it was. Dave La joined me for a warm-up/course preview. We bumped into John Tuttle and chatted a bit about lifetime miles (John has about the same miles as I have, just not as well documented as mine). I put in another mile in flats and headed to the line.

There was a big field (275 finishers) and it seemed like everyone shot out. I counted 26 at the first turn and tried to settle in. It felt so FAST. By the half-mile (307) things had shaken out a bit and there was a clear path ahead. I could see Sam Wood a little ahead, my goal was to keep him close. I slowly moved up through some of the early fast starters but never gained any ground on Sam. I ran as hard as I could and never felt comfortable. I guess that is good but would like to see some better results. I can't complain too much as this is only my second road race of the year. I'm hoping to get down under 19:30 sometime this year. I'm not sure what is up next, but I'm signed up for the NE 5k champs in mid-May.