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This Old Runner Writes

Hot Chocolate 15k Announced for Tampa in December 2016

7/28/2016

 

This is Sweet News!

Today it was announced that "America's Sweetest Race" is coming to Tampa on December 18, 2016. Yep, that's right — it's the Hot Chocolate 15k/5k. Hooray running and chocolate!

I've been eyeing this race for awhile. Sadly, the closest event was in Atlanta, and conflicted with another race on my schedule. Now I can run it right here in my own backyard.

15k and 5k Races

There are two distances: 15k and 5k. The course starts and finishes in the same place. The exact location of the USTAF certified course in downtown Tampa hasn't been posted yet.

There will be pacers for 7 min. up to 15 min. per mile runners. Sign up for live runner tracking during the race.

Swag (Stuff We All Get)

According to the website, all participants receive a zip front Hot Chocolate Race hooded jacket, AND a keepsake finishers mug filled with hot chocolate, chocolate fondue and dippable goodies. There will be DJ playing music and a kids play zone at the finish line. Free race photos will be available for download.
Hot Chocolate Run Tampa 2016 Goodie Bag Hoodie
Photo from HotChocolate15k.com

15k Finishers Medal

Only the 15k finishers receive the unique candy bar medal shown below. It has a removable Tampa insert you can pop out and use as a fridge magnet.
Tampa Hot Chocolate Run 15k Finishers Medal
Photo from HotChocolate15k.com

Register before 8/14/16 for the best prices

Registration begins at $69 for the 15k, and $39 for the 5k if you sign up before August 14th. After that prices increase a couple of times and top out at $79/15k and $54/5k. You can register for the Hot Chocolate Run here. #HC15kTampa

What Equipment Do You REALLY Need to Start Running?

7/8/2016

 
While it's true you don't have to buy a bike, boat, clubs or a racquet to become a runner, you will need some equipment. My recommendation is to get the right shoes, socks and clothes to improve your chances of success.

If you fall in love with running, you'll get plenty of use out of your new gear. If you decide you don't like the sport, you can look fast while running errands.

Must Haves for New Old Runners

1. Real running shoes.
Not walking shoes, not yard shoes, not plastic molded shoes. Real running shoes.

• Go to a specialty running store and get fitted.
• Don't be shy, everyone there wants to help you. They love new runners.
• Learn about your stride and what shoes work best for your feet.
• See what size you need for running. You'll need a larger size than everyday shoes.
• Expect sticker shock. You don't have to buy the shoes today. Think about it.
• Right now, you just need information specific to your feet.
• Once you know your size and type of running shoes, research deals online and at other stores. Watch for discounts, closeouts and tent sales. I've purchased $110 shoes for $30 at end-of-season tent sales.

2. Socks that wick away sweat.
These used to be hard to find in mainstream stores, but I see them everywhere now.

• Materials that are a combo of polyester, nylon and elastane.
• Look for cushioned heel and toes.
• A heel tab prevents the sock from sliding down into your shoe.
• Names like Drifit, Hidden Dri, Friction Free.
• Synthetic socks will wick away sweat and prevent blisters.
Bonus Tip: I always wear two pairs of socks and have been blister-free for years.

3. Clothes made from performance material.
Lose the cotton. Seriously. I don't care if the shirt has a hilarious saying about running on it. Cotton is not your friend when you are running and sweating.

• Performance materials are synthetic and lightweight. They help pull away sweat.
• Why is that important? Because wet cotton next to your skin will lead to chafing and blisters and overheating.
• You can find affordable performance active wear in outlet stores, discount stores, and online.
• Enter a race and they usually give you a performance wear t-shirt. Boom! Now you have another workout shirt.

Okay, so what is this going to cost you?
These are generalizations on pricing. I've found terrific deals at specialty store tent sales, and outlet stores. Look for good prices at the end of season sales.

Shoes: $30-$150
Socks, 2 Pairs: $6-$20
Shirt: $5-$50
Capris: $20-$100
Shorts: $10-$50

Remember, these purchases are an investment in your success. You are so worth it!

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    Upcoming Races:

    March 8, 2019
    Grand
    ​Prix 5K

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    This 5K is part of the #StPeteGrandPrix. The race course is in downtown St. Pete on the Firestone Grand Prix track. Proceeds benefit the Police Athletic League of St. Pete.

    March 17, 2019
    Valspar 5K​

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    The Veterans Alternative Copperhead 5K kicks off the Valspar Golf Tournament. It's Sunday at 4 pm. The race is a scenic 5K through the Copperhead course at Innisbrook. #Valspar #Copperhead5K

    March 29, 2019
    Robinson Preserve Twilight 10K

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    This family-friendly event is in Robinson Preserve on a Friday evening in March. The 10K sounds perfect to me. There's a 5K, 10K, and Kids Dash. #RobinsonPreserve

    April 20, 2019
    Rugged
    ​Maniac

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    I'll be spectating this one, but if you're up to the task use RUN10 to Save 10%. It's 25 epic obstacles + all day festival. #RuggedBR

    May 5, 2019
    Pittsburgh
    Half Marathon​

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    That's right — it's time to hit the hills and bridges in the Steel City! I'm training to run the Pittsburgh half marathon at last. #MOVEPittsburgh #SteelCity

    Oct. 20, 2019
    First Watch
    Sarasota Half

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    The beloved First Watch Sarasota Half & Relay move to October in 2019. It's a great time of year to test yourself on the Ringling Bridge! Use BRSARASOTA19 for $10 off the half or relay; $5 off the 10K. #RunSarasota

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DISCLAIMER:
Remember, I am not a running coach. I don't even play one on TV. Please ask your doctor or professional for advice specific to your body.

I just want to share what has worked for me. It's my hope that this website informs and inspires so you can enjoy an active, healthy and happy lifestyle.

Please feel free to contact me by email or social media with any questions or concerns.

Copyright © 2016-2018 This Old Runner. All Rights Reserved. St. Petersburg, FL 33701
  • BLOG
  • Races
    • 2019 Races >
      • 2019 Best Damn Race Half
      • 2019 St Pete Beach Classic Duo
    • 2018 Races >
      • 2018 First Watch Sarasota Half
    • 2017 Races >
      • 2017 Madeira Beach Sunset Series
      • 2017 Best Damn Race Leftover 5k
      • 2017 May Day 10K
      • 2017 5K on the Runway
      • 2017 Valspar Par 4 Miler
      • 2017 Sarasota Music Half
      • 2017 SPB Beach Classic
      • 2017 Kettle Krush 5K
    • 2016 Races >
      • 2016 Caladesi Island 10 Miler
      • 2016 Ronnie's Run 10 Miler
      • 2016 Weedon Island Preserve 8K
      • 2016 Fort DeSoto 15K
      • 2016 One Step Closer 10k
      • 2016 Hippie Dash 5k
      • 2016 May Day 10K
      • 2016 FL Beach Half
      • 2016 SPB Beach Classic
    • 2015 Races >
      • 2015 May Day 10k
      • 2015 Weedon Island Preserve 8K
      • 2015 Fort DeSoto 15K
      • 2015 Honeymoon Island Half
  • Places
    • --> Seen On A Run
    • Azalea Park
    • Crescent Lake Park
    • Demens Landing
    • Riviera Bay Park
    • Walter Fuller Park
  • Race Discounts
    • What's Bib Rave?
  • Brand Discounts
  • My Story
    • Contact
    • Reviews and Sponsored Posts