Clove Run 10 Mile Race Recap

Yesterday I ran the 10 mile Clove Run in Castleton. I ran the 5K race last year, and I remember watching the 10 milers line up and take off since they started 15 minutes before the 5Kers. I specifically remembering thinking, "Wow. I could never run 10 miles. Ever." And now here I am - running 10 miles one year later - just for the heck of it.

I was by no means trying to race the 10 miles. I was using this race as a training run since I had 10 miles on the schedule anyway. And keep in mind that I was in the ER last week and all week my side had been hurting every time I ran. Not a good sign. I honestly wasn't sure what was going to happen.

I woke up and switched up my normal breakfast of Special K and OJ. Instead, I had an english muffin with peanut butter and OJ. I also took 2 Tums. I am not sure why I did that. But I felt it would help my stomach. Felice picked me up a little after 8 and we were on our way. We met up with Elisa, Karen, and Amanda. We also ran into Jen M. (She was running the 5K).

Soon it was time to start the race. As soon as we started, I felt great. There was no pain in my side and I was relieved. Amanda, Elisa, Karen and I stuck together and trotted along. The miles flew by and the course was great. Except for the fact that there were two gigantic hills that I had to walk up. There was no way I could run. These hills were long and steep. The second hill was at mile 9 which kind of stunk since no one wants to walk at mile 9 when it's the final sretch.

Around mile 7, we passed Jen Mac's house and she was out there rooting us on with her kids and with a sign. Thanks Jen! You gave me a boost!

I was impressed with the course. Despite the fact that it's a VERY small race (there were only about 50 people running the 10 mile race) - it was well marked with nice volunteers along the way. There were about 4 water stops and afterwards, there was a band, and lots of food.

My time was around 1:42. I was happy with that. Next race: Schroon Lake Half Marathon in just 4 weeks!!!