Race Review: Railroad Run, Labor Day 4k

Hi Everyone! 

Doing some backlogging, all the way back to September 2015!  

This was my first finisher’s medal! Railroad Run, Labor Day 4k! 

My first 5k was just a couple weeks before this. I had been running for a couple years, and my co-worker had been twisting my arm to do a race. Well, signed up for another race a few weeks after this one, and figured while I’m at it I might as well sign up for this one.

The race is hosted by Gilmore|Henne community fund. John Gilmore/Chad Henne, local (Reading, Pa) high school football players that went on to the NFL. I was on the same team as a NFL player for a year! Their community fund focuses on “improving our community and the lives of children through the revitalization of parks and recreational facilities”

Elevation/Scenery: course is relatively flat. No noteworthy hills or inclines. The course starts at The Railroad House bar and grill. There’s about a half mile straight away from the starting line to a nearby neighborhood, zig-zag a few blocks through the neighborhood, back on the straight away to return. 

Aid/water: at least one water station mid course. Water, bananas, and soft pretzel post race.

Parking: the restaurant has ample parking for the race. If you arrive last minute the roads may be closed, you may have to walk a few blocks. 

Expo: you may pick up your bib the day before and grab a drink.

Race Management: smooth process throughout, managed efficiently. I would recommend this race. It's for a good cause, it's a good time, you get your money's worth. Small race, approximately 200 people, you may even win a prize. 

My race: 
Let’s first go into what you shouldn’t do. The race is held on Labor Day. The day before the race, I attended a college buddy’s annual party. All sorts of summer BBQ food and several beverages were consumed. From there, drove (actually my dd drove, I did not drive) to my dad’s house, who lives close to where the race is held. We went out to dinner, another beverage consumed. 

Race day: race didn’t start till 10 am, plenty of time for coffee, light, breakfast, and hydration. I was ready to go way before race time. 

I needed to pick up my packet before the race, and saw the emails regarding street closures. So, of course I got there way too early. 

During my previous race, I learned the hard way that race speed is different than training speed. It may be/feel fast, but need to pay attention to pacing so you’re not dragging at the end. Did a little better at pacing myself, but was still something to work on.

Looking at the below pic,couple more things to work on over time. Love fluorescent shirts, they don't do well in pics. I made this comment in another post, basketball shorts? Oh, and try to stop messing with your phone when there may be a finish line pic. lol 

Shirt/Swag: The Tee shirt featuring their Railroad Run train and their G|H logo is very soft and comfy, still holding up after two years. The Railroad Run train and logo is also featured on the medal as well. Plus a “free beer” post-race. 

Good luck to everyone with your training!

If you do any races, please remember to review them on BibRave.com! Your opinions help other runners decide what races to run! #BibChat Follow me on BibRave: Joe G