Minute Man 5k Race Report – Devora Courtney

Race: Minute Man 5k

Runner: Devora Courtney

Race Date: 04/30/2023

Location: Westport, CT

Results: 25:16

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

  • Scenery: beautiful 5k route along the water and through a gold course.
  • Size: small and local (350ish runners total)
  • Options: 5k, 10k, kids’ fun run

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

It was cold and rainy.

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

I ran this race because my sister in-law wanted company as she ran her first race postpartum. I knew nothing about it and just sort of threw it into my schedule for fun. I wound up coming in first in my age group!

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

Get there on the earlier side to park. Parking is right near the start but there is no bag check so you want to be able to access your car easily.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

I need to run some smaller races more often. They’re fun!

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Nothing crazy. Mike 2 has some inclines but I really went in just looking to enjoy a brisk run and support my SIL.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

Yes

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

No

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

Pretty well-run and friendly. Nice refreshments and freebies at the end.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

If I came in first in my age group then no :).

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.

You can register the day of but can only get there by car.

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

There was one water station on the course. Food at start/end as well as bathrooms.

Weather and typical race conditions

It was 50 and rainy but anything goes in late April!

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

None

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

Yes

How’s the Swag?

Free t-shirt and good snacks

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

4/5 – This is a fun, friendly low-pressure race in a lovely area of CT. I wouldn’t have known about it if my SIL hadn’t asked me to join her and I’m glad I did!