Frigid Five Miler

Frigid Five Miler

Frigid Five Miler

( 1 review )
100% of reviewers recommend this race
  • Pittsburgh,
    Pennsylvania,
    United States
  • January
  • 5 miles/8K
  • Road Race
  • Event Website

Sean

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
6 7
2016
"The Hills Are Alive!"
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
Sean 's thoughts:

The hills are alive, but primarily with the sounds of groaning and grunting runners. The Frigid Five Miler combines two challenges in one race - winter running and a hilly course. However, it's these obstacles that make people want to do this race.

Sign-up for the race was fairly simple, since it was sponsored through one of the local running stores and was able to completed online. This made packet pick-up easy as well so I was able to get my tech shirt and bib prior to the race. Although the shirt was the only piece of swag the event passed out, the entry fee for the race was also pretty low.

Now, part of the appeal of the race is that snow and cold temperatures are expected when registering. This year, the weather chose to reflect its unpredictability and remained in the 40's with overcast skies. Not what may have been imagined by the race directors, but it made for great racing temps.

The course began and ended at the North Park Lodge, which is set slightly apart from the rest of the park making for a little challenge with parking. The organizers recommended ahead of time using one of the other lots that were a little ways away and carpooling to the start. This method actually provided for a nice warm-up and also gave participants a feel for how the race ended, since this was the path we would be running shortly.

The course was one large, very hilly loop. Technical skill was just as necessary in this race as endurance. The first mile and a half was flat and provided a good opportunity to set into a pace. While the next mile after that was primarily downhill, the constant pounding on the legs could easily wear them out and take a toll. The next mile and a half was fairly flat and provided the greatest amount of scenery. All this built up to a little past mile marker four, which began the uphill climb, and a climb it was. Until the end of the race, the only way to go was up, which, after four and a half miles, was brutal.

The aid stations throughout the race were at key points, especially right before taking on the hill. These stations were manned by the recipients of the proceeds from the race - local grade school cross country teams. Refueling at the end of the race was also great, since pancakes and hot chocolate were served to all finishers.

Overall, the race was a great challenge and kick-off for many people beginning their spring marathon training. Maybe next year the weather will be more fitting with the theme of the event.

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