Kerstetter 5K Race Report

In March of 2010 Elyria Police Officer James Kerstetter was shot and killed in the line of duty.  Each year since 2010, there has been a 5k run in his memory.  The race takes place in downtown Elyria near the police station and you finish on Kerstetter Way (the road was renamed to honor James' memory).  I have run the race three of the four years it has taken place.  We were on a family vacation in 2011 so I was not able to participate.  For the last two years I have participated with the Lorain County Blue Foundation Team.  This past Saturday I met up with my fellow team members to honor Officer Kerstetter and all other fallen officers. 

Source

We had some pictures taken before the race and talked about our goals.  I mentioned that I seem to be struggling to run fast ever since I turned 40.  I decided that I would be happy if I finished in 25 minutes or so.

Lorain County Blue Foundation

Stonebridge Girls

I started in the back with my team which was a nice change of pace from starting closer to the front.  I went out too fast as I always seem to do in shorter races.  I was definitely working for the miles.  Right around mile 2, my neighbor Chris passed me and told me to come with him.  I may have told him that I was too old for this sh*t.  He quickly reminded me that he was just slightly younger than me.  In the end I couldn't catch him to save my life.  I did manage to have a kick at the end in spite of the fact that I slowed down each mile and finished in 25:57.  I definitely cut it close with my goal of being in the 25's.  Of course I was not happy that Chris beat me as this was the first time he had done so in a race.  My running friends reminded me that I had said I would be happy to run in the 25's and I had done that so I should be smiling.  I was actually surprised to learn that I had finished 1st in the 40-44 age group.  This was my first win in my new age group as I turned 40 in May.


Receiving my award



1st place 40-44

Couldn't catch Chris but I still won my age group!

I really enjoy this race and I'm looking forward to running it again next year!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!