Warren Park 4k
“My lungs were the limiting factor today,” said Tom, one of the participants of the Fort Collins Running Club’s Warren Park 4k run.
“Really?” I replied. “Both my lungs and legs were feeling it…”
Never mind that this race was not even 2.5 miles. Such a short distance pretty much meant that we had to go out hard from the get-go, and after only about five minutes my breathing was already at a four-count pace (one inhale/exhale cycle every four steps). After thirteen minutes, my legs started to feel like they were slowly being clamped in a vise when David — not only the “male hare” (fastest man) but also the eventual winner — caught and passed me.
“Sometimes the short races are the most painful,” observed Nick, who with Dana was once again administering this run. Agreed.
Still, considering that I only ran 3 miles last week, and 2.5 miles the week before, I was happy with my effort. For the second Tortoise & Hare race in a row, I had the second fastest overall time and even crossed the finish line second, instead of second-to-the-last as was my customary position in these “handicapped,” staggered-start races. I also didn’t get lost!
Afterwards — as is the custom for the FCRC — we all went to Gib’s Bagels and had breakfast over friendly banter. The food and liquids was much appreciated by those with winded lungs, sore legs, or both.
Statistics
- Distance: 2.43 miles (average of two participants’ GPS readings)
- First half: 7:45
- Second half: 8:04
- Overall time: 15:49 (6:26/mile pace)