The Lifemark Esquimalt 5k took place on April 7, 2018. It was a slightly rainy morning which paved the way for the sun to come out a little bit later on. Nearly 400 people took part in the race, which is absolutely fantastic!
I wanted to do this race, but then later I found out that the VIRA Island Race Series Bazan Bay 5k would be happening the next day. Therefore, I spent a few hours subconsciously thinking how I could participate in both events.
Then, it hit me. I knew that a few of my friends would be running the Esquimalt 5k and they wanted to be under 30 minutes. With that in mind, I contacted the race organizers and asked them if I could pace the 5k.
I wanted to help people reach their sub 30 min 5k goal. I knew that if I ran the 5k in 30 minutes, I would still have energy for the Bazan Bay 5k the next day. Having been injured in the past, I had to be smart about how I race. I’ve also learned to choose my battles wisely.
Let the fun begin! I “stole” this pic from Marty the Marmot’s FB page.
Prior to the race
When I found out that there was limited parking at the event, I decided to give up my parking spot. I chose to run to the start line from my house instead.
My place is only 4km away from where the race started. I was sure that other people would need parking more than I did because they probably had to travel farther to get to the race. I care about the participants and it cost me nothing to give up a parking spot.
In fact, I saved money that day because I didn’t use any gas! 🙂
It was a nice and relaxing 4km jog to get to the start line. I was glad I chose to run.
When I got there, I picked up my bib and then met up with a bunch of people I know.
At the start line, I just HAD TO keep up with the tradition.
The tradition, of course, is an annual photo with Marty The Marmot! 🙂 Hanging out with Marty is definitely one of the highlights of the event! All the kids (and adults) love his energy.
Photo with Marty= A MUST!
During the race
I intended to finish in 30 minutes so that my friends (and whomever else) could use me as a pace bunny. The course was very familiar to me and it’s always a great atmosphere.
For the first time in a while, I felt completely relaxed. There was zero pressure on myself because I was in this race for my friends as well as whomever else wanted to get under 30 minutes and crush their goals!
By the time I got to the 1st km, unfortunately, my Garmin didn’t match the km markers. So, from that point forward, I had to run it by feel. Over the past half a decade, I’ve learned what it feels like to run anything between a 3:45 min km and a 10 min km. Therefore, I knew exactly what a 6 min km should feel like.
As I moved along the course, I finally was able to take in how beautiful this area is. This is definitely one of the most scenic runs I’ve ever done. The race takes participants on a beautiful journey through through Saxe and Macaulay Point Parks.
In previous years, when I ran it in 20 minutes, I never got the chance to take in the scenery. I’m so glad that I was able to enjoy the beauty that surrounded us all.
In the final km, a gentleman that I know from other races, caught up to me. I told him that if he stays ahead of me, there is a 100% chance he will be under 30 minutes. He said that he has seen me run faster before so he wondered why I wasn’t shooting for a sub 20 min. I told him that my run this time is about helping others reach their goals.
After the race
I’m honoured that Marty referred to me as one of the most dedicated runners in Victoria. I’m also thrilled that my memorable, charitable 500+ km run from Port Hardy to Victoria is remembered, 5 years later!
I finished this 5k in 28:43. Most of the people who were wanting to finish under 30 minutes, finished before me. The ones who finished after me were not too far behind. Overall, I believe it was a successful day of pacing.
Now that I’m able to collaborate in various ways with a variety of gyms, groups and event organizers, I’m always looking for opportunities like these. 🙂
Unfortunately, I didn’t get to stick around very much for the post-race festivities. However, the post race snacks and refreshments were great! With that in mind, I left and jogged the 4km home. It was a Saturday morning well-spent.
It’s definitely a well-organized and fun race for the whole family! I also like that the registration fees are not expensive so it’s a very affordable and healthy way to spend a Saturday morning with friends and family.
So, if you missed out this year, stay tuned for information on the 2019 Lifemark Esquimalt 5k. Then, turn on your computer and sign up. Trust me, it will be worth it.