Race: Negative Split 10K
Runner: Adrienne D
Race Date: 04/07/2019
Location: Spokane – Kendall Yards
Results: 01:01:45
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/2272947420
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
1. After race food was THE BEST
2. Encouraging signs and volunteers along route
3. Course had a variety of uphill, downhill, and flat areas
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Rain sucked – but can’t control Mother Nature!
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I kicked ass. Improved my time by 11 minutes from last year and just felt overall fantastic.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Practice hills ahead of time :). There is a decent size struggle hill about mile 2.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Pick up the pace when I’m feeling good! Don’t be concerned about burning out; after mile 3, PICK IT UP.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Follow the signs :). This is a 5k, 10k, and 13.1 course, so runners of all distances are on the road at the same time. There is plenty of visible signs and volunteers pointing runners in the right direction, but just be paying attention.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
This course goes through downtown Spokane, neighborhoods, Centennial trail, and business areas. Very nice!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
There are some tough hills, that if you are not accustomed to, will be tough. Last year, the hills were really tough for me, but this year after some hard training, I conquered them with ease.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
VERY organized. Negative Split runs are always well organized.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
I am not a competitive runner, so I am unsure how the elites feel, but I don’t get a sense of competition during this race.
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.
Easy registration that opens up about 6 months in advance. If you’re from out of town, you will want to book a hotel, but you would have no issues booking a few days (or even the day of) in advance; lots of hotels within walking distance.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
For the 10K (and I believe the 1/2 too) there are aid stations every 2 miles. They include water, Gatorade, and energy chews.
Weather and typical race conditions
I have only done this race two years in a row now and both times it has been a light drizzle. This is an iffy time of year with Spokane weather so it has potential for anything from sunny and 60 degrees, to downpours. I will certainly take a light drizzle of what it could have been!
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
Since it was raining, I made sure to have a hat to protect my face, but it wasn’t raining hard enough to require a rain coat or poncho.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes! There are lots of activities at the start/finish area that can keep spectators entertained while waiting and also PLENTY of areas to take a seat and watch, especially on the Centennial trail portion.
How’s the Swag?
Great! The after race shirts are a lightweight, long sleeve, hooded, spandex material that can be worn during a run or just casual. Medals are always provided too, and if you do the Windermere race in May the medals actually connect together! They have shirts, hats, tumblers, and more for purchase as well.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5!