Grooved to Run

Saturday was the St. Stephen’s Episcopal Cathedral annual Great Pumpkin Chase 5K in Harrisburg.

It was absolutely pouring rain and about 55 degrees when I woke up. By the time I arrived on City Island and picked up my race packet it had slowed to a drizzle, but everything was wet and people were already looking a bit soggy. I would estimate there were just under 200 people there, undeterred by the weather. After a few words from one of the race organizers, the Great Pumpkin (heh) had the honors of starting the race… and we were off.

The paved path/road loop on the island was pretty much flooded in places. It ranged from large puddles in some sections to areas with well over an inch of standing water. Nate and I traded positions back and forth as we splashed through the water and looped the island. Definitely a blast, but I ended up coming out of the gates way too fast. The first split was just after a hard left onto the Walnut Street Bridge. Considering my 1-mile PR stands at 7:45, I was a little surprised to have a 7:47 first mile.

Crossed the river and made a right onto Front Street, heading South along the river down and under 83. Turned-around and headed back up Front Street through the park, ending across from the cathedral.

My unofficial time was 26:58 (8:41/mi pace) according to the clock. According to my Garmin, I covered 3.13 miles in 26:56 (8:35/mi) with an average speed of 7.0 mph and a max of 10.6 mph. Splits were 7:47, 8:39, and 9:18. Last tenth (0.13 mi according to GPS) at an 8:44/mi pace. Burned about 467 calories.

I’m admittedly rather disappointed in my time because I was hoping for a PR.

But overall the race was really good. It was well organized, had a fun atmosphere, awesome shirts, and a dude dressed like a pumpkin. Not sure what else I could ask for. :)

MB