Cpt Gregory T Dalessio Memorial 5k Run (20:33)
Last weekend I ran the Cpt Gregory T Dalessio Memorial 5k. I actually planned to do a different 5k, but I was too lazy to drive far and with this race, I could make it to work on time. I’ve run the Cpt Gregory T Dalessio Memorial 5k before and for whatever reason, never felt that great. The course has a lot of turns and finishes on grass, so it’s not the easiest 5k course either. That being said, I still ran the exact same time as the Medford Turkey Trot the week before, so I can’t complain about that.
I got to the Cpt Gregory T Dalessio Memorial 5k around 7:15 am, signed up, and warmed up. One reason I like the Cpt Gregory T Dalessio Memorial 5k is that the entire racecourse is marked with American Flags. This is done as a memorial to Gregory T. Dalessio who was killed in Iraq in 2008.
After a few announcements, the race started at 8:10 am. When I started, I didn’t feel as bad as I anticipated. I thought my legs would be sorer than they were. I wasn’t really paying attention to my watch and was gliding by people. I thought, did I start too far back? It felt like I was jogging a 7-minute mile. Then I crossed the first mile of the Cpt Gregory T Dalessio Memorial 5k in 6:34. Funny enough, it’s the same time I’ve run the last 2 5ks in.
The next mile went through a lot of turns. I knew the course was slow and there were a lot of turns and small inclines and declines. I hesitate to call them hills, but just gradual climbs. I didn’t feel bad and I caught a few more people. I hit the second mile in 6:34 and felt surprisingly good.
I knew the course was slightly long and finished in the grass, but I also knew I could run my fastest 5k in a while if I continued at this pace. I just focused on the finish. Towards the end, a young kid and I were going back and forth. I could tell at the grassy part he didn’t want to be outkicked by a female and finished right ahead of me. I ran the last mile in 6:40.
The finish .25 was around a giant loop of grass. I didn’t want to hurt myself and roll my ankle, so I ran smart.
I crossed the finish in 20:33, just like the Medford Turkey Trot. I know this course is slightly long as well as more challenging so it’s a harder effort.
Cpt Gregory T Dalessio Memorial 5k Thoughts:
I’m happy with my effort at the Cpt Gregory T Dalessio Memorial 5k. Of course I’m looking forward to the days that sub 20 minute 5ks are the norm again, but this is where I’m at now. It was great to see so many friends and coworkers.
Questions for you:
What is your next goal race?
Do you have any races for the rest of December?