Earth Day 5k Race Report – Jennie Bromley

Race: Earth day 5k Trail Run event (Hartford County Running Club)

Runner: Jennie Bromley

Race Date: 04/22/2023

Location: Hartford County, MD

Results: 1:01:36

Strava Activity Link: https://strava.app.link/4g90HNHckzb

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

  • The trail was at a Regenerative Farm. The support from the farm community and from the Hartford
  • Running club were amazing!
  • The trails were maintained and well marked.
  • Beautiful sunshine day and got to see farm animals throughout the trail run.

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

A donkey trying to get my attention. Lol!

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

  • Finishing my first trail 5k was the biggest highlight. Even though I was slow, I kept a decent running pace throughout the course. Except for the inclines, I had to walk up. The trail did have rolling hills which made it more challenging but good for a beginner such as I.
  • I prefer trail running because being in nature is in my element.

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

Doesn’t matter what fitness level or if you are a beginner runner. Just go out and run if it’s on pavement or on trails. Take it slow and enjoy the process. I came in last place from the trail event but I persevere and finished it. People are there to support you.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

Beautiful cross country course

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

The course had rolling hills so that made it challenging but it was not a technical trail. To me, I thought it was a good trail for beginners.

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

Very well organized

Competition – Is there a strong field?

Not competitive at all. Laid back event

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.

None

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

One aid station. Nothing fancy. Yummy pumpkin spice muffins!

Weather and typical race conditions

Beautiful sunshine day! Around the low 60s

Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?

I just wore my Altra trail running shoes and running vest.

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Yes

How’s the Swag?

No swag

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

How many stars is the max? Lol
Yes, I do recommend this event