Fast Recap: Fort DeSoto 15K

September heat and humidity are always a challenge here. Sunday was a cloudless, sunny day with 85% humidity. We had a slight breeze at the start, and a better breeze during the last mile.

The Fort DeSoto Park paved trail is nice, but has very little shade. That was okay, since my goal was to test my hydration and fueling plan in tough conditions. 

I'm a real fan of the Gatorade Endurance products I'm using this year. I've had no stomach troubles, and they're easy to take while running. I used energy gels and thirst quencher during this race.

I started too fast, but calmed down and ran slow and steady after mile 2. I ran one mile with a pacing group which was fun. Most of the time I ran my own race with one eye on my BPM. It was super hot and I wanted to stay safe. 'Cause I'm not This Young Runner.

I didn't think to take pictures until I saw the Skyway Bridge at the 15K turnaround. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

All racers received this sweet medal. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

We ran on the road for a short distance at the 15K turnaround. The race began in the parking lot, then followed the paved trail for an out and back course. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

How Many Miles in Your 15K?

Somehow, I always run too far at Ft. DeSoto. I'm not sure if it's my GPS or if I swerve a lot. I tried to run tangents, but whatever. My race totaled 9.41 miles instead of 9.3.

I managed a slow, steady run and felt good afterwards.

​At the finish line there was cold water, an iced towel, and the big medal. I dunked that towel in every bin of ice water I saw. It felt so good!

Grabbed a beer and a banana right away. The race offered baked goods and pasta, but I didn't eat those. I took chocolate milk for the ride home. I stayed for some awards, but had to leave soon after the race. 

I came in 4th again in my age group. One of these years I'll be old enough or fast enough to get in that top 3. Overall, I feel like this race was a good way to get in this week's long run. 

Thank goodness for recovery sandals and my transition wrap. I used these as soon as I got to my car after the race. You can use my code: “BIBRAVEWRAP” for 15% off all Orange Mud gear. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

This was the first time I used my Orange Mud transition wrap. It was sweat-free seating that kept my upholstery clean. The microfiber is so soft. Feels much better than a regular towel on the seat. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

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What's Next on the Racing Schedule?

The Legoland Brick Dash 5K sells out, so if you're interested go sign up now. The finisher medal is made of legos!

Well, thanks for asking!

​I have one more race before the First Watch Sarasota Half on October 20. It's the Legoland Brick Dash 5K in Orlando. This is a run/walk with my husband for fun. All the proceeds benefit Merlin's Magic Wand which helps kids around the world.

We want to see the park, which includes the old Cypress Gardens property.

​Receiving a medal made of Legos sounds pretty cool, too!