This is my quick review of the 2nd Annual San Marcos Manufacturer's Association (SMMA) Gear Up 10 Mile Run. I decided on this race because while reviewing my 1/2 Marathon training plan I noticed the 15K race on the schedule. I decided to search the web for a race that was local that day and this popped up. Having done a 10 miler before, I was pretty excited to do another. Here is a quick rundown of the full race details and my thoughts on the event overall.
Registration: Early online registration was done through www.athleteguild.com and was quick and easy. Early sign-up fee was a very affordable $40, race-day registration would've been $50. We received numerous e-mail updates with all of the race day details including course map and profile. There were only 62 runners signed up when online registration closed and grew to 70 on race day.
Packet Pickup: Since the race was an hour away, we opted to pick up our packet on race day; there was no line and the volunteers were great. Most people were hanging out in their vehicles since it was still chilly and foggy out.
"Swag" Bag: The race bag was a reusable tote bag that included various coupons and flyers. It also included a long sleeve tech shirt and the race gift, which was a small pad folio. The race bib also had a small timing chip taped to the back. It was a good swag bag for a race of this size.
Event Organization: The start/finish area was held in the parking lot of the Tanger Outlet Center and was very well organized. They had coffee, doughnuts, and runners were able to use the outlet center restrooms. That's right, no porta potties! The only thing they need to consider having is bananas and bagels instead of doughnuts.
The Race: The race itself was pretty good. After the national anthem the horn sounded just after 0700. Start temperature was around 45° with a slight breeze and some fog. The course immediately went out of the outlet center parking lot and out in to the country. They had the side of the road coned off, but there wasn't any traffic to deal with. It was a 5 mile out and back that had 2 water tables, which meant one every two miles. The course had a good amount of rolling hills, but nothing so steep to dramatically affect pace. Since it was such a small race, it did get lonely out there around mile 6. There was probably a 1/4 mile gap in front of and behind me for the final 2.5 miles. I crossed the finish in 1:21:19, good enough to knock a minute off my PR.
Post-race: Volunteers were handing out water to finishers just after the finish line. They had a table set up with granola bars, fruit cups, and various other snacks. I went for coffee to try and warm up before my wife finished. Most people were finished for the awards ceremony, which was surprisingly 3 deep in each age category (10 year increments). Unfortunately, I was in the most competitive AG and finished 6/8. Overall I was 18/70 and 15/37 males. There were also plenty of door prizes donated by local businesses, almost enough for every participant. My wife ended up with a $25 prepaid Visa card.
Results and Photos: The results were online at athleteguild.com within hours of the race. They did not use a photography company, but pictures were taken and should be uploaded to their Facebook page soon.
Final Thoughts: I would definitely run this race again. It was very well organized and you can't beat the value at $40. Hopefully it will grow to a bigger field in its 3rd year and continue to grow. Check out their Facebook page if you are interested in them for next year. https://www.facebook.com/smmagearup10milerun
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