It's become a bit of a tradition to participate in the Thankful 13 event here in Utah. It's one of the few events that run this late in the year and the only half marathon distance that falls into the Turkey Trot category. Plus there are no buses involved which means no super early wake up call. The night before arrived and I regretfully set my alarm for what I thought was the latest possible time but still enough to arrive with time to spare. Alas, I forgot how LONG my husband takes in the mornings. Unlike me he doesn't get all his gear together the night before. So while he's pooping and yelling at everyone because he can't find his stuff (not at the same time), I'm getting quickly irritated because he's going to make us late. We needed to drop the kids at my parents still and I was STRESSED!
We were blessed with a beautiful sunrise as we drove up to my parents. Quickly dumped the kids and were back in the car racing down to Thanksgiving Point. To be honest I've had issues every year with this race series. Historically they run out of medals as well as the correct size shirt that you ordered with your registration. This year however this wasn't a problem. We literally arrived with five minutes to spare. Threw our gear on and walked down to the starting line. I don't think there were as many people as last year. Within minutes we were off. This was to be a training run for us. I wanted to have a pace right around 10:30. My husband likes to go out fast and it was cold so I was anxious to warm up.
It wasn't long before I heard what sounded like a stampede of horses coming up behind me. As I turned my head I saw that it was actually a group from a National Guard running in their combat boots, carting along flags with them.
So. Cool.
My husband can be pretty funny sometimes. At one point we were approaching a team of military folks. My husband goes on to thank them for their service and pass comment on my lack of American citizenship. I reminded him that although I'm not an American I am British and by definition one of America's closest allies.
We were not spoiled for views along the course. The course itself was about the same as last year. As we passed through the 5 mile mark we picked up a couple GU's. I always bring my own, just because I'm used to races running out. I think I'll always be finishing in the back half of the pack and that always means provisions can be questionable. But when they're available I pick up a couple since that's what I feel like I pay for as part of my registration. When we came back through the same aid station on the return trip they were out. So I was glad we got some when we could because we would have been hurting on that back half otherwise. I felt strong until the last mile. It's solid uphill and a killer. At that point I was tired and Jeramie was starting to race ahead a bit. I just didn't have the gas in me to race uphill at the end.
We finished with a solid time however.
Finish Time: 2:16:56
Age Group: 34/70
Average Pace: 10:29 (SPOT ON)
As we approached the finishers chute we saw our oldest son with my Dad and he jumped in and ran the rest of the way with me.
My outfit was pretty perfect for the weather conditions. It was in the 40's. My legs had been a little chilly early on but I was comfortable most of the time.
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Jackson came down with my Dad and they ran/walked the 5k. Jackson surprised my dad by running a good 2/3 of the course. So I'm excited to sign up for another and RUN the whole thing together. I totally think he could do it! Maybe even pick up an age group medal! Sailor (my mum's dog) raced with them as well. So proud of this guy! He's already excited to do it again.
Love this family of mine.
We went on to spend the day with my family. Stuff our faces full of turkey and then Mum and I hit up Target and Walmart for a little pre-Black Friday shopping.
I absolutely LOVE getting up and knocking out some decent mileage before the Thanksgiving Day activities begin. Overall I would totally recommend this race to any locals. It's not a "big" race with "big race" frills. I think the post race goodies are lacking. However, I also think Pumpkin Pie is disgusting and therefore do not see that as a fun post race treat. My husband would tell you otherwise!
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Would you race on Thanksgiving morning?
Do you like Pumpkin Pie?
Do you pick up "your share" of race fuel?
This race looks awesome! I can't imagine getting to run with those views. (So Midwest, so flat farmlands!) And I like the outfit, too.
ReplyDeleteActually, I like everything. Great job!