Runner: Christopher Russell

Race Date: 06/06/2026

Location: Murrells Inlet, SC

Results:

8th overall, 4th masters, 2nd age group (50-59)

3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?

• Supporting our veterans
  
• Got to meet some great people
  
• Shattered my PR by more than 1 minute

Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you

Nothing. It was great!

Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?

GPS signal was very weak. Couldn’t really rely on my garmin to keep me in my pace zones. I wasn’t able to close out the race on my Garmin until I was on the way home.

Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?

Since I couldn’t rely on pacing from the Garmin, I had to instead rely on all the work I’ve done with my Runrun coach to get myself in what I thought was my correct pace.

Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner

Trust your coach! Whenever I have doubts about my ability to hit goals, Coach Mark always is there to give me words of support and advice.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

This race is very flat, like most races on the coast of SC. However, you definitely want to get near the front at the start because the walkers have the same start time.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

It’s a nice course through a quiet neighborhood.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

The course is very easy.

Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?

This was well organized.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

For such a small race (200), the competition for over 40 was very good. The 20-39 groups were weak though.

Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.

The only thing to keep in mind is that the streets will close to traffic about 45 minutes before the start. Get there early or you will have a long walk just to get to the event.

Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?

One hydration station, which is nice for a 5k.

Weather and typical race conditions

The weather was beautiful. About 75°.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Yes

How’s the Swag?

The swag is good, but only first place in each gender, masters, and age group (10 year increments) get a trophy. Nice t-shirt and the participant medal is nice.

The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?

4 stars. I recommend this to other runners that are looking for an easy course. It’s for a great cause.