This was the first race I’d ever traveled for, and the certainly the first one I’ve done out of state. It just so happens that my husband likes gambling (responsibly!) and I had heard of this race from Hollie. Thought it would be a great little long weekend!
Packet Pickup and Expo
When we arrived into Atlantic City, the outlets are one of the first things you come to, and we had packet pickup at the Nike Factory Store. It was relatively organized. Although I had my bib number, they still looked up my name and verified my number, then I had to go to another table to get my shirt.
Race Day Conditions/Attire
It was forecast to rain for the race. It was going to be in the high 40s/low 50s, so I opted for long sleeves and my rain jacket, a hat, capris and my compression sleeves. Since I had just lived though rain at Shamrock a few weeks ago, I thought I was prepared for what was to come.
Why do I look so happy to be going out into the rain?
Pre Race
Since it was raining, I decided to stay indoors as long as possible. We were staying at the hotel right next to the starting line, so I didn’t have far to walk. When they called 5 minutes to race time, I headed out there.
I tried to start up my garmin, but it had died. When I tried to charge it the night before, it said it was charged! UGH. I decided I would just run blind and hope all the mile markers were up so I could gauge my time.
Race Time
The 7k and 11k started at the same time. I lined myself up about 2/3rds of the way back. I planned on walking/running intervals. I got started and the rain picked up even more. I was very impressed with the amount of runners versus walkers at this race…but I guess the weather probably scared off a lot of the would be walkers.
After about the first mile, I was so over the rain. I tried to run as close to the buildings as possible, thinking that maybe it would shield me from some of the blowing wind and rain. It didn’t.
It was really nice to run down the boardwalk and take in all the sights. Most of the shops were not open yet, but the shop owners were standing in the door ways watching and cheering us on. All of the volunteers were rockstars as well, cheering us on and braving the weather.
At mile 2, I was waiting for the turn around to show up, and I realized that I had been running/slogging the entire time, no walk breaks. I was relieved to hit the turnaround and was glad to be halfway done.
I didn’t know this, cause I’m a wuss and don’t choose to run in the rain, but when you where a rain jacket, the rain kind of collects in your elbows. I had to empty out my sleeves of water puddles about 10 times.
I took a very small walk break after the 3 mile marker…maybe just a tenth of a mile. It was a nice break, but I got right back to running because I was ready to be out of the rain!
The last mile was tough, but I dug deep and kept pushing on. I finished in 1:00:26. I had hoped to be under an hour, but with the conditions, I can’t be too upset with myself.
After Party
I totally had zero interest in an after party. I grabbed my medal, food and headed straight for my hotel. I looked for Michael in our designated meeting spot and he wasn’t there. Turns out he had headed toward the finish line to look for me, and I had already finished!
I was soaked through and through, not a dry spot on me!
We caught up with each other and I headed back for a nice warm shower before going to a nice big lunch!
Showing off my well earned medal!
When was the last time you had a Garmin fail? When was the last time you traveled out of state for a race?
coolrunningsjourney 