This was NOT a planned race.

I had planned to sign for a half marathon in Ft. Lauderdale on Feb. 15.

But I surprisingly got into the NYC Half Marathon and it was a week before my race-cation to run the Asheville Half Marathon.

With TWO half marathons in March, I decided not run one in February.

But could I go on a vacation without a race scheduled?

Nope. So I signed up for Race For Hope 5k because:

• A race.
• (Only) a 5k.
• It wasn’t too far from where I was staying in Florida.
• The course was described as scenic (running along the water) and flat.
• It raised money for an important charity. (depression research)
• I had hoped to plan a meet-up after with two former co-workers.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations: 

If you follow my posts, you also know that I had started running again after being sidelined with bronchitis. And the weather has been horribly cold, windy and snowy.

In hindsight, a long run in preparation for my half marathon would have been more beneficial but I had already registered for this race before I got sick.

I arrived in Florida on Wednesday. After viewing the sunrise, the weather was perfect for a short run on Thursday and on Friday.

So delightful to not have to run with a coat on!! You Fkorida runners are so lucky.

Race Description:

Join the Race of Hope crew at the 5k (3.1 mile) run/walk through tranquil neighborhoods and along the beautiful water views of Palm Beach, FL. Participants from across Florida and beyond unite as a community to raise awareness about the fight to defeat depression. This race was built to please professional runners to first-time race walkers. Gather your friends, family, corporate team, and favorite racers for an incredible event for a life-saving cause.

The first 1100 race participants to pick up their packet will receive a race pullover jacket, hat, and shirt. All racers will earn a huge finisher medal at the finish line. 

Although the race sounded like fun, truthfully I was on vacation and it was very tempting to sleep in and hang out with my friends.

But I had made brunch plans for after so there was extra motivation to run the race.

Race Day:

As I always do, I brought my race day breakfast from home: oatmeal.  I was up at 5:30 am in order to be ready to leave by 6:15 am. The race started at 8:00 am and it was about a 30 min drive there. I wanted to get there early in order to find parking and pick up my race packet.

I didn’t even check the weather. I just put on a shirt and skirt with compression socks. I had opted for a red outfit since the race was held on Feb 14, Valentine’s Day.

I had no problems at all getting a parking spot near Bradley Park where the race began.  The parking was even free until 9 am.

You entered the park and you were greeted by enthusiastic volunteers.

I immediately headed to get my race packet. I was surprised when they handed me a bag and it included ALL the swag plus my bib.

There were booths representing organizations that supported depression research.  Many had food or freebies.

There was even a place to relax before the race.

Real restrooms in addition to porta-potties were another perk.

Eventually I retuned to my car to drop off my jacket and shirt.  I decided to wear the race cap and glasses to add some yellow to my outfit.

It was still early so I relaxed by the water until it was time to head to the start.

 

There were close to 1,000 participants (fewer than usual I guess) and many were walkers.  There were signs where to stand based on your predicted finish time.

While waiting, I saw a runner wearing a NYC Marathon tank… Of course, we struck up a conversation and became instant friends. She explained that she would be slow because she was undergoing  chemo. (Her slow would have been a PR for me…)

I had no pace for the race.  I knew that I would start out fast, run as long as I could and then walk whenever I was tired.

I would have loved to finish sub 30 but it’s been a while since I’ve been able to do that and with no speed work and these warm temps, I would be happy to cross that finish line.

And that’s exactly what happened.

I ran the first mile without stopping.  There was a water stop and I was happy about that.

I slowed down during mile 2 and started my walks.

The course was flat and scenic as advertised.

All along the course were signs about depression:

I’m sure that I walked even more during the last mile and stopped at the 2nd water stop. It was warm and sunny and I was wishing that I had worn a tank top and no compression calf sleeves.

I crossed the finish line smiling…got a bottle of water and then my medal.

Post Race Activities:

My new friend Dolores was waiting for me so we took some pics and friended each other on FB.

As I mentioned above, I was meeting old friends at a nearby diner for brunch.

I quickly checked the results.

The awards ceremony wasn’t until 9:30 am and my free parking expired at 9 am so I left.

Additional Race Reflections:

I have to say that this was my 2nd Florida 5k.  And I am so impressed with the organization of their races.

I’m pretty sure if I can, I will run this race again next year.

The Good:

• Easy packet pick-up.
• Pre-race emails with instructions and maps.
• Lots of freebies.
• Great swag – cap, glasses, wind breaker, shirt…
• Real bathrooms at the start/finish area.
• Two water stops along the course.
• Well marked course.
• Timing clocks at each mile.
• A looped course so no repeat views.
• Water views most of the whole race.
• A great variety of pre and post race snacks.
• Nice medal.
• Friendly volunteers and runners.
• Awards announced for top 3 as well as 5 year age group awards.
• 100% given to this important charity – depression research
• Great weather (sunny and not too hot)
• No back or foot pain.

The Bad:

• Medals as age group awards
• My positive split pace.

The Ugly:

• Nothing

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.  For all the reasons above.

Final Stats:

 

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