KC Groundhog 10k : Race Report

The 27th annual running of the Children's TLC Hunt Midwest Groundhog Run took place early this morning in one of the most impressive venues -- The Hunt Midwest Subtropolis. The Subtropolis is the world's largest underground business complex, featuring 5 million square feet of lease space and nearly 7 miles of paved roads. With year-round temperatures between 65 and 68, it is a great chance to run in shorts in January!

Rob, Steve K, Becker, Dan and I drove up in the wind and light snow for the 10am start (5k starts at 9am.) I was excited to start the year off right and was interested to see where my fitness was. I threw out my back 5 weeks ago and had a toe problem after that, so I haven't had too much time to get back on track.

After the singing of the National Anthem, we were off. I took out the first couple miles strong and hit the 5k mark at 21:40ish. I struggled a little after mile 4, but rallied for the final 1.2 miles. I finished in a PR of 44:47 (7:12/mi.) Overall I was happy with my fitness, but a tad disappointed in how I raced...I could have pushed harder.



If you ever get the chance, DO THIS RACE!!! It is amazing. Oh, and they gave out Powerbar Gel Blasts in cola flavor with caffeine...they were good! Give them a try.