Occoneechee Relay 2025 : Insane Running

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Occoneechee Relay 2025

This is the second year of running the event. Last year, we did a two-person relay, which was a total of 5 repeats of 2 laps. This year, we have a team of 4, so each one of us will be doing just a total of 5 laps. Chad is the captain of the team, with Phil and Dave joining us this year. This event was delayed due to dangerous weather late in January. So this will be a back-to-back event, given that yesterday I participated in the Ghost Road Trail race.

I warmed up for two easy miles, and the temps felt a tad on the high side compared to yesterday and a few weeks before, the sun was shining, and there was not much of a breeze. But it was ok, the route is mostly in the shade, and since each loop was only 3/4 of a mile, it was going to be more like a speed workout. Well, at least that is how I was going to tackle it.

The order is the following: I did not want it to be 1st or last, so Chad, Me, Phil, and who brought it home for the team to the finish, Dave. There were lots of other teams, some track teams, cross country, as well as some families participating in this fun event. After a few announcements and off we went to tackle the laps of Occoneechee Speedway Relay Event.

Loop 1: The initial loop felt good, although even with the warm up, it felt rushed. I held a decent pace and was able to pass three to four runners, but already the youngsters where also zooming by.

Loop 2: All is good, I landed on an 8:00 pace for the most part steady. Still passing a few and being passed by others.

Loop 3: Time flew by and I am back to do the 3rd loop. Chad was doing phenomenal. Phil and Dave were speedy and getting us back on track. This loop again held a 8:00 pace, tad slower than 1st loop but consistent to the second loop.

Loop 4: My watch was on low battery and ran out of juice, so running these next two laps by effort. Once I get the results, I will see if I was able to hold a decent pace. I was getting thirsty and, sugar were hovering on the high side. Grabbed some water after I was done with this loop. One more to go. Dave and Phil were flying.

Loop 5: Last loop by effort. Once I get the results, I tried to push the pace, but there was nothing left in the tank. Not moving as quick or fast. The form did not felt flowing like other times. Still glad I was done and finish with my last lap, it was great to see the other teams and our team going at it.

It is a very well-organized event that I would recommend for beginners and veterans if they want to test team relay fun and some short speed workouts. The team hung around for a bit at the finish line area, talking to a few people and having a late lunch/Dinner before I headed back home. Excellent BBQ, similar to last year, with some coleslaw and beans. There was cornbread, but I opted not to eat some. My CGMS sensor stopped working again, I had a feeling that sugars were rising at the end.