One Step Closer to the Cure 10K 5K

Adjusting Distance to Meet the Heat

I'm jealous when I see people posting cool temperatures in northern states. Here in Florida it's still Summer. This morning was the Celma Mastry Ovarian Cancer Foundation's One Step Closer to the Cure 5K and 10K.

I consider the One Step race an unofficial kickoff to my Fall racing schedule. Not that it EVER feels like Fall! This morning it was 79 degrees with 87% humidity at the starting line. 

This race is special for lots of reasons. I think my favorite part is when ovarian cancer survivors walk while holding teal helium balloons. It's moving when you see someone out on the course with a balloon. And, it's touching to read the shirts racers wear to honor people they love. It all tugs at my heart. 

St Pete's downtown waterfront never disappoints. It was a beautiful sunrise before the race today. In the distance you can see the new pier in progress. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Early in the race I decided to shorten my run to the 5K. It was a good test for the 2nd week of half marathon training. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Switching to a 5K

Early in the race I decided to run a 5K, rather than the 10K. It gave me a chance to test my race pace in the heat and humidity. The 5K was flat, but still a challenge: because high temps. My pace was faster than expected. Now, I have a starting point for this half marathon training cycle.

Target Heart Rates

I wanted to keep my heart rate at the low end of Zone 4 for the entire race. My average was 145 BPM, except for the final kick at 167 BPM. So, that was on point. It feels like my summer training is working.

Below is a heart rate chart from the American Heart Association. This chart shows AVERAGES. You'll see acceptable heart rates differ by age. Other factors like medications and weight come into play, too.

I'm still learning about running by heart rate. It's been a useful guide in the heat and humidity of Summer. You can learn more about heart rate training and it's purpose by reading this Runner's World heart rate training article or reviewing the heart rate calculator info on Active.com.

Chart from American Heart Association

Charming Race for a Good Cause

Overall, the One Step Closer to the Cure is a charming race. Both the 5K and 10K start and end on St. Pete's waterfront at Albert Whitted Park. It's always a good view when you run around #dtsp. So much is changing downtown, it's good to get a foot level tour of the changes.

​Thanks for a good race, CMOCF.org —see you again next year!