This past Saturday was the 32nd (I think) annual Rattlesnake Run 5 miler over the hills and through the woods of San Antonio.
Bested last years' time by 1:24 posting a 31:29 good for 2nd in age group and 12th overall.
I took a bit different approach to the race this year. I went out very conservative as the 1st two miles is where you can ruin your day if not careful. First two mile splits were 6:24 and 6:29. The race starts on a small but steep hill for about 50 meters. As you get down the road, you peel off into an orange grove and run behing St. Leo University. You really have to pay attention to your footing and also jump a ditch along the way. This leads you to the make or break hill. It is a 3 tiered hill that isn't real long but is steep. Take this one too fast and you will be gasping for air.
You get some time to recover with only one small hill leading up to the 2 mile mark.
Mile 3 has the next big hill that gets you coming and going. After taking a turn, you have a nice down that goes straight into the up. Run further to the turnaround and do it again. If you can get through here in good shape, you can cruise the final mile where it is mostly flat to downhill with one incline before a downhill finish. I did the last mile in 5:56, so was better than I expected but pretty much as planned.
Nice burnt orange shirts this year. Medals were the same design but different color than the last two years. They are one of the nicer medals you will get.
For only $20, one of the better races around. Wasn't as many runners this year though. Didn't seem like there was as many people at the festival either.
Next up is the Tower 10 miler in Clermont in 3 weeks. Looking forward to a fast time on that one!
Great report Neil and awesome job on the PR, maybe I'll get to run it next year!
ReplyDelete