Nicole feels

I did it.

I ran my first race this morning. Start time: 7:00 AM.

I completed the 5K in 26:25. My goal was under 30:00. I am not sure where I placed in my age group or overall yet, but should know in a few days when they post the stats on our local running store's site.

I think that makes my pace about 8:30 per mile. I should know for certain when they post the stats, as they include that too.

The course was not completely level; there were several steady upgrades. But this time is pretty good for me considering I ran 3.25 miles in 28:01 on a flat course (HS track) this week.

Overall I am pleased; it really was a rush, though I have to say, it wasn't easy! It got hot pretty quickly - even though it was early, you could tell that today will be a scorcher. Thankfully, there was a nice breeze through most of the run.

What impressed me the most was a 75-year-old man who ran the race in 30:41. All I can say is, wow. He said to me as we were walking back to our cars, "See you next year!"