race report: snow.

So, first race of the season, Shamrock Shuffle 8k, and my goal was about 48 min. Then it snowed. Alot.

Woke up this morning to a whiteout. I've run in worse, but I've never been stuck in a start corral for 30 minutes in worse. The problem I had to solve was how to be warm/dry enough for the ride there and the corral wait, yet be dressed ok for the run. I decided to forget the gear check- that would leave me cold and wet in the coral- and run with a backpack instead. Dressed for a wet windy run, then bike raingear and overshoes, and rolled out.

It was cold. And wet. When we slow folks finally got to go, it was a good half hour after they corralled us. I took the waterproof layers off, shoved them in the bag, and crept forward.

There was a distinct soundtrack to this race, something like "schlook schlook schlook." The whole way through, 1-2" of slush. Hard on the knees and ankles at places. Really loud. Didn't get to look around at all, spent the whole time looking down and watching the pavement and trying not to get run into. I don't think I want to run the Chicago Marathon anymore. These crowds, they're not for me.

Aside from that, what's to say? it was 5 miles, I run that almost every day. I could have gone faster, I didn't really push. Conditions sucked. 51:02, slower than even my morning training runs (with stoplights and Molly stops.) Still in the top half of both women and my division, which at least offers some comfort.

They were giving away free Michelob Ultra at the finish, but I made a beeline home for a hot shower and accompanying shower beer instead. Half Acre love.