Saturday, September 21, 2013

Showmars 5K

301 Enthusiastic Runners / Walkers for the 2nd Annual Showmars Pediatric Hearts 5K.  Right on target with the last years' 299 runners.  Excellent turnout for Mr. C (Couchell, owner and founder of Showmars Restaurant) and Levine Children's Hospital. Mr. C himself was once again present at the race festivities, supporting all and encouraging runners.

This race runs through a very beautiful neighborhood off of Park Rd in Pineville NC.  Lots of trees and well groomed landscaping, gorgeous brick homes and a fully paved route from beginning to end.  
There were moderate hills, the steepest of which seemed to be the final hill to the Finish line as it appeared after a steep decline. 
Shirts improved greatly this year.  A nice dark gray New Apparel shirt made of 50% Polyester, 25% Cotton, and 25% Rayon. Shirt were also available for sale post race for $10.

Timing was off once again by one minute, just as the previous GPX race, Hog Jog, was short by one minute, this one was over by one minute... exactly.  As of right now, all results for both races remain "as is".  It was a chip timed race and it did utilize correct start and stop times (minus the overage).  As per my previous posts related to the GPX series this year, the point system has not been updated and complaints are growing to that end.  Runners did receive an email notification post race (9:28 AM) with finish times, results link and actual points for the GPX (this race only).  It is the total scoring system that has not been updated for participants.

I was truly glad to see a consistent turnout for this race and I very much enjoy the course.  Relaxing.  It's also an easy drive from Charlotte.  I 485 to the Pineville-Matthews Rd Exit and one turn.  'Eazy Peazy' from I 85 or I 77.

Post race amenities included pancakes with butter and syrup, oranges, bananas, Gatorade and bottled water.  The restaurant was closed but the doors were unlocked allowing visitors.  Porta-Jons were available behind the restaurant and a kid's Fun Run began at 9 AM.

I did not linger after crossing the Finish.  Grabbed a Gatorade and a banana and headed out.  I enjoyed a late night with family at Scarowinds the day before and finally went to bed at 3AM.  My goal was to show up this morning.  Mission accomplished.
CHIP TIME:  46:24
OVERALL PLACE:  270/301
OVERALL GENDER:  118/140
PACE:  14:56 per mile



No comments:

Post a Comment