Race: Popsicle 5k
Runner: Sandy Hernandez
Race Date: 08/19/2023
Location: Atlanta
Results: 26:54
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
The race takes place on the Atlanta Beltline. Mostly flat, which is nice compared to the usual Atlanta races.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
The organizers ended up having some connectivity issues so the times weren’t available until much later in the day.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Completed this race mainly to compare progress based on last years results. In 2022, I ran it at 30:30. This year, I accomplished a HUGE PR with 26:54!!! I honestly was not expecting this.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Ran this race without a watch. It was nice to strictly go by feel. This allowed me to see where I am at holistically with my fitness.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Trust your training. Trust the steps you took. On the way back, I could feel my energy drop. Told myself to trust the steps I took to properly fuel and to push. So happy that I did end up trusting my abilities.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
It’s pretty decent. Love the art throughout this course.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not really. Some short hills after you hit the one mill. Would highly suggest hills training for any ATL race.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
It was organized well just some technical issues towards the end.
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.
No, this is a very small race.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
One aid station at the turnaround point.
How’s the Swag?
Simple swag. Worked for me!
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
I would give it a 3.75. Still plan to return, mainly to continue using this as a way to compare my progress.