Race: Running of the Bulls 8k
Race Date: 06/04/2022
Location: Durham, North Carolina
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- The shirts were super nice.
- A lot of people cheering for you as you pass check points, water points and circle around at the finish.
- It was a nice course.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
- Probably my own newness, but it took me a while to figure out where the tent was to get your bib and shirt. It was down an opposite street around some buildings. They did it to keep the crowds separated but, on the website, it said packet pickup was under the tent.
- There were many tents with no distinction lol.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
- I’m glad I showed up. I almost didn’t.
- The race started at the bottom of like a 2-minute hill run. My mindset was pretty negative but after I got to the top, I was like oh…It actually wasn’t that bad. It set the tone for the rest of the run, and I knew I’d be able to finish.
- At the end, I realized I actually did way better and it was a way easier race then I planned or thought it would be, and I was pretty cocky and in a good mood for the rest of the day. This is the first time I’ve ran this far. More races to come 🙂
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
- Stay positive.
- Don’t look at the 600 million hills and you won’t even realize they are there.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
- I should have gotten there earlier.
- I forgot to start the GPS for my watch because I was rushing and missed timing like the first 2 minutes of the race.
- Do a cooldown. I was sore all day.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
- Hills.
- Hills everywhere.
- Everywhere……
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Yes
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
- In my opinion, yes.
- Also in the words of the lady I called a couple days before about it. She said it was pretty hard lol.
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.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
The top male finished in under a 5 minute pace. Uh yeah. Lol One day
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.
Just registered online
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
There probably was one but I didn’t notice it. There were vendors set up everywhere. Many tents.
Weather and typical race conditions
7 am run. Cooler temperatures.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
I know a lot of people just drink from the water stations, but I’m glad I brought my own hydration. I’m sure the 20 minute finishers don’t need it but as a newbie I’m glad I had it. Most people would stop to grab one and walk while drinking it. I was able to avoid all of that.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes
How’s the Swag?
Brooks Shirt and Medal. Winners got Brooks Shoes.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
4 Yes
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