Stoudt's Brewing Distance Classic 12K - Run

I've long had this race on my 'to do' list but hadn't done it for one reason or another. People often mentioned how hilly it is and is also an 'odd' distance. I decided this is the year I'm finally going to get 'er done.

I seeded myself toward the back and it was a pretty good guess of where I needed to be. I don't think I got passed much nor did I pass too many people but had a few of each. It was a very pretty day for the race but a little hotter than I would've preferred. It was nice running somewhere new but I was also completely unfamiliar with the area and didn't know what to expect.

There were a few hills along the way, as advertised. I tackled them with a mix of walking and running. I didn't feel the need to kill myself on this race as I had a hockey game to play the next day.

Saw more familiar faces from LRRC at the aid stations. I had my hydration vest so I didn't take any water along the route, just used my own. One bottle of Nuun, one bottle of water. Ate a gel somewhere between mile 3-4, used (and spilled) BASE salt some time later.

The downhills were tough - not wanting to shred my quads and also not wanting to take a header on the rough road.

I was mainly looking to complete this race, not so much race it. I knew that no matter what I did it would be a PR because of the odd distance. I would've like to done a little better but I'm not beating myself up over it too much. At least I wasn't last!

Be a bit better prepared for the hills and the distance. I also think I could've been better prepared mentally for it. I had just raced a 5K last weekend and think my head and heart weren't 100% on board with another race.

Walked to the car to drop off our loaves of bread (finisher prize) get our beer glasses and ticket, thankfully a long enough walk to help serve as a cool down. Got a few orange slices and water, then got in line for our beer. Grabbed a table at the outside biergarten, then shared a fresh, local kielbasa with kraut and some green beans as we watched the 'fast kids' collect their prizes of beer for AG and OA placing.


Not knowing the course and not expecting the hills to be quite what they were. My weight.


Check this one off the list! Now that I've completed it, I don't think I need to do it again. Nothing against the race itself - it was very well run and a nice course, just a little more challenge than I was expecting.