Turkey Swamp Half Marathon

On Sunday, August 18th I participated in the Turkey Swamp Race Day.  Turkey Swamp is a multi-race day of trail running in Turkey Swamp Park, Freehold Township.  It was my first trail running in some time and my first trail half marathon, ever. Imagine 100 or so of your friends all coming together for a footrace and a barbecue.  That's the Turkey Swamp experience.

The day consists of 10 mile, 13.1 mile, 26.2 mile and 50K races all run simultaneously via a 2.5 mile loop through the park.  As a beginner, I wasn't sure whether I was getting beat or not because I wasn't sure who I was running against.  All the participants start at the same time to "Ready. Set. Go!"  Within the first loop you are spread along the race course running at your own pace.  I was lapped by more experienced and faster runners and I also lapped a few people. The lap system is fun because I enjoyed running through the timing mats and seeing my progress.  Plus once you finish, you can watch the other participants complete their race. It lends itself to camaraderie.

What I liked About this race:

• The trail running experience was a blast, beautiful scenery and great food with a very supportive running group. 
• I loved seeing my coach win the 50K (yes, she's an ultra runner! see Coach Shannon at her blog). 
• Meeting Tom in the parking lot and swapping running stories.  He ran the ten miler and was leaving when I finished up.
• Meeting Paul, a fellow beer aficionado and the winner of the marathon.
• Meeting Yvonne and Lucimar and driving them north.  These dedicated runners took a taxi from Queens and didn't have a way to get back to NYC.  They are great company, if you get the chance, give 'em a ride!