The Great Pumpkin Run

Hi everyone! I know it's been way too long, and I really have no good reason, but I'm going to really try my best to get back on the blogging bandwagon. Especially since running really does give me so many ideas and things I want to share. Like the race I just ran this past Satutday, The Great Pumpkin Run!

I had first seen this race pop up on my Facebook feed and figured it was out of state. It is a series of races held in different locations. (Think The Color Run, The Hot Chocolate Run, Spartan Race, etc.) Out of curiosity, I clicked on their link and was absolutly thrilled to find out there was one only 40 minutes from me! I signed up the next day, and patiently waited for race day...ok maybe not so patiently, lol.

 

The race was held at Maize Valley Winery in Hartville. A beautiful vineyard/Christmas tree farm/pumpkin patch. I had picked up my packet early, so on race morning I got there early enough to settle in and enjoy the scenery.

Now I have to admit, I was a bit disappointed (partly with the race, partly in myself for not reading this), but for spectators to get into the start/finish area cost $6. It was because they have fall activities on the weekends, and I'm sure they didn't want people sneaking in and taking advantage of the activities others would pay for in the afternoon. Not a big deal, other than J was unable to get a finish line photo for me. I just chalked it up to something to keep in mind next time. I stayed with him until very shortly before the race, then made my way to the starting area.

There was a threat of rain all morning, and I was hoping it would hold off. I figured as long as it didn't start raining before the race started I would be happy. Luckily it didn't rain at all! The race did start promptly at 9am, but once again they surprised me by not playing the national anthem before the start. I thought it odd, but once the countdown was done, the first wave took off. 

This was my wave and I expected the first wave to be a bit of a competitive one. The pace per mile was to be 9 minutes per mile and faster. For that reason I positioned myself toward the middle. I'm glad I did! The start was crowded, which I expected since we were running through the vinyard and cornfields, but it seemed like many who were in this wave weren't on pace. Passing was difficult in the first half mile and I tried my best to find my pace, pass when I could and be a courteous runner. 

The course was well marked and laid out. We made our way around the property, between rows of growing pines (which was probably the most challenging part...serious hills and long grass), around the back of the property then through the corn maze to the finish. I will say the corn maze was probably my favorite part. Zigging and zagging on narrow paths and not being able to see where the next turn was taking me. I was alternating between thinking I was an wild animal and someone being chased in a horror movie. Way fun!!

I finished in 27:58.7, an average pace of just over 9 minutes per mile. I finished 42/1009, not too bad for my first cross country type race!

I found J and we made our way to the free pumpkins and cider, stopping along the way for a freshly made pumpkin donut, and enjoyed walking around the property and winery store.

Overall it was a great experience. I did learn some things, though. The biggest being that this run really is more of a fun run event. Lots of costumes, activities, and runners there just for the experience. That's not a bad thing, actually, I think it's awesome! I just have to keep that in mind next time I run it. I am a competitive soul, and I just need to adjust my mindset. Also, really READ the flyers. When we got to the race area and were stopped and told spectators needed to pay to get in it caught us off guard, but we weren't the only ones. We watched several others who hadn't realized this give the same reaction. Like I said, no big deal, just something to keep in mind for next year.

Yes, there will be a next year for me. Running like a free spirit through the countryside was way too enjoyable for me to NOT do it again! For that reason I would definitely recommend giving it a try if there is one near you :)

At this point my next live race isn't until Thanksgiving Day. My Runstreak is still going strong, today will be day 335. I've  also been thinking about some things I want to do. Changes to make and challenges and other fun stuff, but I'll save that for the next post ;) 

Until next time live happy and run far my friends!!