The New York Road Runner’s Mini 10k was the first women’s only race and has been held annually since 1972. The race was originally intended to be a marathon, but it was decided that a “mini marathon” would be better suited. It’s crazy to think that not until the 1970s did women have their own race. It’s even more amazing now that not only does NYRR still host this 10k, but the Women’s Half Marathon each spring!

This was my first time running the Mini 10k- many of my friends have done this race before (including Pam) and always enjoy it. Naturally I had to join in on the fun. Plus, it was part of girls’ weekend in NYC! Unlike some of the other road races, there is no crazy sign-up rush for this race which had over 8,000 finishers yesterday morning.

NYRR makes packet pick-up so easy for race morning or getting your bib ahead of time at the Run Center. The girl squad met up for race morning and headed to Columbus Circle for the starting line. Even before 8am, it was heating up to be a warm day. Summer is finally starting in New York! The corrals were organized, but separated by flimsy ribbon which ended up breaking and crowding the start. The first mile runs uptown on Central Park West- this part of the race was definitely crowded! I tried to weave through people, but also needed to gauge my speed. 1. It was hot! My body was telling me that I wasn’t going to be setting any records with this warm weather. 2. Don’t try and sprint out of the gate knowing that the steepest hill was coming up in Mile 2.

So Central Park is no joke when it comes to the hills. There aren’t too many flat parts when you are running the big loop. I was mostly excited to run a race clockwise around the park after completing the Women’s Half which runs counter-clockwise. Those big uphills turn into downhills 🙂 By the 5k mark, I was sweaty and in need of some water. Thankfully there are 4 water/ Gatorade stops along the course. Winding around to the east side, the crowd started to grow with athletic supporters. My 5th mile was my fastest mile- probably due to the excitement from the crowd.

Heading around the bottom of Central Park, the Mini 10k has the same finish as the New York City Marathon. With 800 meters to go, the hills keep coming and there is a nice uphill finish. I love to take off as soon as the finish line is in sight! Let’s go- you’re almost there! My personal favorite part of the finish line was receiving my medal from one of my friends who was volunteering! She was also at the finish line of the Brooklyn Half- the best cheerleader there is! Finishers also received beautiful carnations and pink post-race bagels.

Maybe the most important piece of all is the post-race party! The Mini 10k after party was held at the bandshell  where they had a huge backdrop for sweet finisher photos, raffle prizes, and a recovery zone- thanks, HSS! It gets better… the race shirt? It’s a lightweight New Balance tank top and is going to be perfect for hot summer runs while we are training for the Chicago Marathon. The whole race was a great experience and the perfect reason to get together with our girlfriends for a Saturday bRUNch.

Did anyone else run yesterday?! What’s your next race this summer?

❤ Louise