The Texas 10 series is a series of 10 mile races across the state. Apparently, points can be earned for those that participate in multiple events. In addition to the 10 mile distance, a 5 mile and kids' 1 mile distances are also offered. I stumbled upon this event on a running website, and, decide to give this one a go.
While I'd invited a few friends to participate, only Melody opted in, and chose the 5 mile route.
The race started and ended at Farrington Field, with most of the course taking place on the Trinity Trails. A simple 5 mile loop for the 5 mile race, and, 2 loops for the 10 milers.
I'd been fighting a terrible back pain for several days leading up to this one, but, knew I wouldn't miss. Additionally, it had been an incredibly lazy week workout-wise.
I arrived to a very small crowd. A shame, as this was a well coordinated event. The results showed only 99 total for the 10 miler, and 18 total for the 5 miler.
I got off to a painful start. each step sent shockwaves up my back and hurt like hell. I wondered if I'd made a mistake in showing up. by mile 2 - 3, I'd loosened up a bit, and found a slow, steady pace. The route itself was familiar and easy. I stripped my long sleeved running shirt by mile 3, and carried it until the end of the 1st loop, where I tossed it aside. I also experienced some foot numbness through the 1st lap, which caused me to stop just shy of the 1st lap to re-tie my shoe.
The second lap, like the 1st was slow and steady. One of the challenges with a small event is that there are times that it feels like you are running alone. That can make one feel really slow! While I'd hoped for a sub 1:40 time (10 minute miles), my slow pace took me just over.
The results, 10.1 miles in 1:44:30. Slow, but, done.
A few cool things about this one: they had good options for post race food, they have random drawings for cash ($50 for 5 milers and $100 for 10 milers), they offer pint glasses for those that place. All in all, a good event. I suspect I'll be back.
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