2nd Annual Fort DeSoto 15k

Better Weather in Second Year

It was a relatively cool, dark morning. It felt wonderful to be outside about to run in one of the prettiest parks around.

Last year there was a lot of rain. This year it was dry and less humid. It was already 77º at the start, but I felt more acclimated to heat this summer, so the temps didn't bother me.

Runners at the starting line for the 2016 Fort DeSoto 15K. (Photo credit: GameFace.com)

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This is my personal recap. Detailed Race Review —> 2016 Ft. DeSoto 15k Review

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This Old Cranky Runner

I woke late, and that seemed to throw me off my game for this race. Instead of relaxing over coffee and oatmeal for an hour before the race, I gulped, swallowed and rushed around.

I made it to the park in plenty of time, so I thought it would all be fine. And it was, for about 5 miles.

The race course was completely inside Fort DeSoto Park. (Photo credit: GameFace.com)

Somewhere in mile 5 my stomach began to gurgle and rebel. That was the first time in 19 long distance races that I experienced stomach turmoil. I did not like it.

I'll admit I was cranky for a couple of miles. But, I kept running. After a pit stop at the North Pier restrooms, I felt better. I finished the race in 2 hours. Nowhere near a PR today, but that's okay.

I decided to think of this race as a training run. I'll keep running longer distances, and increase my hill and speed workouts to prep for the upcoming half marathon season.

(Photo credit: GameFace.com)

Great on course support is the norm with Florida Road Races. Aid stations were staffed by volunteers who cheered and encouraged all the runners.

(Photo credit: GameFace.com)

I loved running in Fort DeSoto Park. The views were lovely, and since the entire race was inside the park I didn't worry about anything but running.