Just before the start of the run, in the pre-sunrise darkness, there were only a few minutes left to try to warm up those quads, hamstrings and calves (video).
Following the National Anthem, the countdown to the start (video):
A short time on the back straightaway gave everyone a chance to feel their leg muscles again, before heading to banked Turn 3 -- which came with a bunch of photo ops (video):
If you've ever watched the Daytona 500 or any race at the iconic Daytona International Speedway, you can appreciate the turns. Although I've been on the track before at two prior Daytona 500 events, I've never been "up close and personal" with the turns. What an experience to be there first-hand!
While driving to the packet pickup at Gate 70 along the backstretch the night before, rows and rows of campers and tents were in their spots in and around the Speedway (had to be a night for extra sleeping bags and blankets, and probably a few spirits, too). Here's the scene on Saturday morning from inside the track:
And, yes, there was a sunrise that happened over the backstretch:
It was a wake-up call! (video):
The run route continued around Turn 4 and across the Speedway checkered flag:
Stopped long enough for a photo:
Wrap around the infield and head to the run finish along Pit Road:
Kids lined up for the Kids Run Run at Pit Road:
Pit Road, all quiet at the time:
A real-time look at Pit Road:
Another chance with the checkered flag track finish from the grass infield:
I had to come back to get a photo with the run finish line after it was clear:
It was a chilly tram ride back to the parking lot -- by the way, if you haven't done that, make sure to hold on to your hat -- literally -- as the wind, especially through the tunnel, will lift that hat from your head, never to be seen again! (actually happened to me a few years ago). That top photo was the only time the vest and hoodie came off, just long enough for a photo in the event race shirt.
It was one cool experience!
The Speedway hosts the Daytona Beach Half Marathon Weekend, featuring two more runs at the track on February 10, before the Daytona 500 Qualifying.
Hey, running or walking events are a great way to not only get or stay in shape, but to have fun and travel around Florida! Tune in to the Beer Run page here on brewnymph.com for running links ... find an event, and get going! (And, yeah, you can usually find a beer or two around also!)
Escapades, Brews and Running Shoes™!
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| At McK's Tavern on Beach St in Daytona Beach the night before the Daytona 5k -- I only had one, but there were many to choose. NEWS: McK's Tavern is brewing beer now, and look for it to start serving its own house beer soon |
Til next time,
Linda
Linda Johnson, Certified Cicerone®
Escapades, Brews and Running Shoes™
www.brewnymph.com
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