Race One: The Shamrock Shuffle 8k

I did it. I not only survived my first race back in the running world, I PR'd and I didn't murder my knees in the process. 

So due to all of the lateral movement across the wide course, I ran an entire half a mile extra. My official time with the Shuffle was 47 minutes still, but they logged my pace as 9'32"--still excellent but not quite accurate. 

I'm very proud of this race. The expo was amazing, packet pickup was easy, and the Nike+ Services tent at the race was perfect. The worst part was waiting for the start in the corral. I definitely was in the wrong corral (I put my pace as a full minute and a half too slow) and as a result I had to wait in the cold for extra long. 

But the race was great. I'm so happy with my time and I felt so amazing when I finished. Additionally, my parents were able to see me run and I was able to celebrate with the Nike Run Club after at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel! 

My first race was perfect, and I'm excited for many more to come!

Jenn and I at the after party. Photo courtesy of Nike+ Chicago

Mom blinked and I'm smiling waaaay too big.

-B