First 5k

Yesterday's weather was quite cloudy and cool with the clouds occasionally spitting at us. We left pretty early since its a bit of a hike from Brooklyn to Harlem (Riverside Park). Arriving right on time for registration (though haven't take a wrong turn or two) we waited about an hour for the official start time of 9am. Turnout was strong with a total of close to 300 registered. Thankfully it didn't rain at all during the run itself.

This was my first 5k mind you, so I'd set the expectation low. I'd hoped that there would be a good showing of portly folks who would surely be slower than I. Sadly, few if any of these people showed up. In fact, 99% of the people were in great shape. I was even more disconcerted by the various runners club jerseys. It was clear we were to be outclassed and outranked - and we where. While the dust the other runners left behind was indeed eaten and enjoyed by yours truly I definitely picked up the pace myself versus past attempts. I ended up finishing out at 35:15 which is an improvement from my loops in prospect park (generally 10 minutes longer on average).

Overall, I loved the event and am planning on taking part of several more 5k in the next few month. The point afterall is to better yourself - so it's not worth beating yourself up over not being in first place (at least not yet?)

Pre Run Foods: Banana, Coffee and home. Maplet Nut Clif Bar (in transit)

Knee Brace Yourself

To fulfill my knees constant need for attention I caved in and bought the right one a brace (at Paragon Sports from Stromgren). After a quick measurement, I selected the medium. It was a snug fit. Very snug. Cutoff circulation snug - but I think that's how these things work right? In any case, the first run around Prospect Park was a success. The main areas where the knee would act up was the main incline and decline on the outer loop and your center of gravity shifts. The brace help in ease that. Additionally, if Riverside Park is as hilly as we've been told for my upcoming 5k I want to be prepared.