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Carlsbad,
California,
United States - March
- 3 miles/5K, 12 miles, Other
- Road Race
- Event Website
Mai Khuong
California, United StatesOverall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
Bib Pick Up - Bib pick up was super easy. I opted to pick up my bib on Friday at Fleet Feet San Diego because it was on my way home and there was a 15% discount on their items, so I decided to also purchase some Superfeet for my inflamed fascia. :)
Race day - I arrive about an hour before my race and I find sweet street parking a few blocks from the start line. I met up with my male friends who were running the race before (Men's 39 and under race) and wished them good luck. Then, I stretched out my legs, took my infamous jumping photo, and got ready to run. While stretching, I spotted Meb Keflezighi and was starstruck. LOL. He was at the expo on Saturday signing autographs and since I couldn't attend, I was pretty bummed. BUT luck was on my side because I saw him and I got a picture with him!
The start of the race went pretty much as expected. I started out too fast and got winded a mile in. LOL. I felt extremely out of shape, but pushed on. My fascia was doing okay and wasn't overly upset at me and when it did decide to hurt, I walked. I did take my time and I finished in 27:07. :) Not a bad time considering.
Post - Race: The energy of this race is amazing. Probably because it doesn't start super early. After crossing the finish line, I met up with friends ANDDDDD spotted Meb again and this time, he was signing people's bibs/medals/ribbons so you know I had to get mine signed. He was so nice and patient taking pictures and signing things for us.
The Carlsbad 5000 will always be one of my favorite races. It's short, sweet, and over in less than 30 minutes. :) And there's free beer at the beer garden. I didn't drink, but my friends did and afterwards, we headed over to Pizza Port for amazing pizza. I had an amazing time and honestly, I can't wait to do it again next year. :)