Race Review: B.A.A 5K

I am so excited to post my first race review for  2015! My friend Colleen (Live Free and Run) in Washington D.C. connected with me on Instagram back in January to see if I'd like to run the Boston Athletic Association 5K in April. I love the energy around Boston Marathon weekend, so I thought this would be a great opportunity to take it all in as I don't anticipate running the Boston Marathon any time in the near future. Also, since my physical therapy and recovery from patellar tendinitis, I wanted to start with a low mileage run. Thus, I committed to showing up on 4.18.15 for the start at Boston Common.

Getting to the race is fairly easy if you are already in the Boston area. I stayed at a friend's apartment in Somerville; She was kind enough to drop me at Davis Square on the Red Line bright and early. From there, it was just a few stops on the T to exit at Park Street. I should have warmed up from Park Street to the Boston Common; however, I was distracted by the people watching. I missed any opportunity for a dynamic warm up and stretching, but I did get in the walk. I was a little nervous due to the size of the race and being out of the race scene for some time.

Overall, the race was well-organized for having 10,000 runners/walkers. The t-shirt line moved quickly and the pre-mailing of the race bib was critical for setting up a smooth experience. Additionally, there were plenty of porta potties (which is essential for runners pre-race!). The gear check area was large enough but needed a few more volunteers to direct runners to move through. I did get caught up in that line for a bit, but it did not make a difference since it took about 15 minutes from the race start to actually begin.

Great race Colleen!

8:00 Minute Mile Starting Area

My only minor grouse with the B.A.A. 5K was the self seeding. I am by no means a fast runner, but in a 5K I push myself by jumping in the 8:00 minute mile corral area. However, many people did not self seed correctly. I got caught darting in and out between runners ranging from 10-15 minute speed or slower. I found this irritating. Runners should have a general idea of their pace before a race. As a result, I did miss my PR by 45 seconds. Nonetheless, I did get my second fastest ever 5K time! My average pace was approximately 8:50/mile. After a serious injury in 2014, this felt satisfying. I'm sore today, but I'll do some yoga and most likely the muscles will loosen up shortly.

While I was unable to catch up with Colleen prior to the race, I did find her near the Cliff tent after the race. Her husband, Jim, is running the Boston Marathon today, so we chatted a bit about the big race. I always enjoy hearing about her race experiences--super motivating. Be sure to check out her race recap as well!

We could not have had a better day in terms of weather. It was sunny, but cool enough to avoid getting overheated during the run. It made for a lovely setting post-race.

I may not be back next year, but I will return for this race again! It is pricey at $50, but the finisher medal, t-shirt, and post-race food were very good. If you live in the area or want to come down for the marathon weekend, this is a race you should not miss!

Laura