Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Miler

My first 10 mile race!   It was crisp and chilly this morning.   I decided I was going to run in a singlet with arm sleeves and 3/4 tights.   While I did eventually warm up on the course, it was down right cold waiting for the start.   I stood by the bag check wearing my jacket for as long as I could before bag check closed.  I was in the green corral.  It took around 14 minutes to cross the start line.   The course was pretty crowded but I think it worked to my benefit as I did not go out too fast.  Since I accidentally left my phone at home in NYC, I had to run without music.   This turned out to be a blessing as I focused on breathing and form and ran strong throughout the race.  I ran RnR NOLA without music too (by choice) and also had a great run.  This is going to be my thing for now on.  

I finally warmed up around the second mile.   I  didn't get too many elbows (thankfully) but someone was running so close on my tail that they stepped on the back of my foot but luckily my shoe was secured.  That could have been ugly in more ways than one.  ;)    I actually enjoyed the course.  They were some nice Cherry Blossom in bloom but more are still to come.  Hopefully there will be a nice showing when I am back in D.C. in 3 weeks for the Nike Women's Half marathon.   It was so pretty running along Rock Creek and through the various parks.   I was brave and actually took Gatorade and water at 3 of the 5 water stations.   I used only 3 shot blocks around the half way point and was good to go.   

I am very happy with my time 1:42:16  (10:14 min/mile pace and I was able to push to 9 something miles in the last 2 miles),  considering I had such a different run at the Allstate a mere two weeks ago.  I loved the seeing the D.C. BGR ladies along the course cheering us along.   I didn't get to meet up with my fellow NYC BGRers due to not have my phone on me.  Oh well.   Another race down, and a bunch more to go!