"Mama goes Masters" Virtual Race Report

I have to admire and support anyone who celebrates a birthday with a running related event. So when I heard that MCM Mama was hosting a virtual race in honor of her 40th birthday, I figured I'd be a participant. Even though I am currently in no type of racing shape, I was happy to be out there doing what I love best, running.

The race I chose was The "Mama Goes Masters" Four Mile Dash and Crash. Like most races I do, this one started in Central Park. But instead of a morning race, it began at 6:00pm. The evening air was cool, breezy, and humid. After a warm up half-mile to the start, I was ready to get going. There was minimal fuss at the starting line..no long-winded speeches, no jostling for position, no color-coded bibs--just a peaceful evening breeze and an overcast sky.

The Dash

The official "horn" sounded at 6:01pm, and I was off. If I'm being honest, I approached this race like I typically do: underprepared (this time for speed), excited to race, but eager to be done, and with a "take it easy" mentality. The first mile was decent, and I held steady for miles two and three (Cat Hill was a real b!tch, as usual..) I was thankful to have my garmin because there were no mile markers on the course. Then I hit up a water stop briefly. It was here that the course went from the roads to the dirt bridle path. It had rained most of the day, so the path was wet and puddle infested. I did not let this stop my consistent pace and carried on to the finish. My time for the four miles according to the "official timing system" was 37.11 (9:16 pace).  

The Crash

After grabbing some water, I jogged about a quarter mile to the finish line festival where I enjoyed Amy's Cheese Pizza and chilled watermelon. There was also Gus soda on hand! This was the perfect recovery mix for a four mile effort -- I applaud the simple, yet refreshing finish line food choices of the race committee!

Happy birthday, MCM Mama! I enjoyed the chance to participate in your race. Thanks for hosting!