Securian Winter Run 2014 was my very first race. I had only
just started running last month and wanted to get some race exposure for
excitement. The fact that it was an open outdoor race in January in Minnesota,
in the middle of polar vortex, did not discourage me – maybe because I was
naïve and also because I had trained outside (flying hifi). Nevertheless, I
started small and went with 5K.
It was an instance decision because the date was of
significance to me. Inspite of that, the fee was not so high. Securian had a
great parking space; covered, spacious and accommodated nearly all runners
cars. That was connected to their warm, indoor pre-race space; again huge with
all facilities in there. Late packet pickups, bag check and stretching areas
were running smoothly. Family warmed me with their hugs to calm my nerve and
waited for me here while I ran.
Race started in the downtown outside the Securian center and
winded out of the downtown to Shepard Road. 10K and Half Marathoners continued,
while we 5Kers could turnaround back to the same place for finish. Towards the
end I happened to see the clock and nearly stopped to curse; it was incredibly
over my expectations. After a pause, realized it was for the other race and my
race clock showed 48 minutes. Phew that was a relief. It’s not a great record
but it was my first time racing in my adult life.
Temperature for the duration of the race was closed to 10F.
Remember we were still in the middle of Polar Vortex i.e. we were colder than
Antarctica that January. So my running gear was:
1. Bulky
wind proof winter jacket layered over fleece shirt, full-sleeve tech shirt and
half-sleeve shirt.
2. Winter
cap & neck gaiter for my face
3. Now
this was my first race in Minnesota winter, so in my anxiety I was trying out
new gloves. They did not work. For the initial 15 minutues I was scared I might
lose them to frostbite. I kept thinking I should have stuck to my
gloves-&-mitten combo from my training run. But after some distance, my
fingers warmed up.
4. Lower
limbs were protected by C9 Compression pants and wind-proof track pants.
5. Reebok
shoes with thick soles & compression socks.
Race goodies: There was no medal for the 5K category. But
they gave a Headband which has been useful for me for my runs across the chilly
part of the year. That and the ceramic mug. This run is part of Saint Paul
Winter Carnival. and so there were other promotional goodies. Their
waiting area had numerous food offerings.
