Based on the success of NYRR's Manhattan R-U-N 5K, the running organization decided to follow suit and have this evening race in Brooklyn. I'm all for diverse locations for NYRR's runs, because so many of the NYRR runs are performed in Central Park.
I was pretty excited because this was my first race of the season. Yes, I am a little late to the game for my 9+1 race schedule. The NYRR has a program where one can get guaranteed entry into the following year's TCS NYRR Marathon by running 9 qualifying races and volunteering for a race. Based on this race, I have a long way to go, in terms of training. Another finisher said it best "I did not run the race I wanted, but I ran the race that I deserved". I think this race gave me the kick in the pants to make some changes and better my training for the TCS NYC Marathon.
I really enjoyed the race in Prospect Park, except for the 3/4ths of a mile climb right after the first mile.
Going forward, I have told myself that I will incorporate more hills in my marathon training. Unfortunately for me, my left hip started to hurt during the end of the second mile and I had to walk a little :(. I do not think that I ever walked any portion of a 5K, but the pain was kind of intense. I know that I did not stretch very well before the race, because I was in a rush to get to Prospect park. I work close to the park, but there is no direct public transportation options to the park, so I had to walk about 2 miles.
A couple pre-race photos:
I probably should have been stretching more rather than taking selfies.
A couple post-race photos:
Since this was a fun run, the NYRR had a lot of games for the kiddies (and adults) and food vendors.
All in all, it was a nice experience to participate in an evening race. I wish that the NYRR would host more of these types of events, but I understand the logistics for holding these type of races can be a little difficult.
