Groundhog Run 10k Race Report

We were excited to race the 31st Annual Children's TLC Groundhog Run in Kansas City on January 27th.  My sister lives in KC and graciously hosted 3 silly runners and 4 sillier children for the weekend.  Thanks sis!!

This race is a unique fundraiser that is entirely underground in the Hunt Midwest SubTropolis.  It is a two loop course that began near the mouth of the cave and wound around and past the many business that make their home underground.

We passed Hallmark, a U.S. Post Office and many more.  The floor of the cave is paved as a street would be and the pillars are covered with a protective coating to (presumably) combat crumbling.  The ceiling was unfinished and reminded us, as we ran, that we were in a cave!

The mouth of the cave.

We parked across the highway and were bused to the entrance of the cave.  It worked out great!  The weather was a little chilly, but the buses were heated and we didn't have to wait long.  We noticed folks that parked and walked - but why?  I would guess we all made it back to our cars in the same amount of time - and we didn't risk a ticket by being illegally parked!

Me and my running buddies.

My husband ran with me, and his brother ran in a little faster wave.  My training plan called for 6 miles at easy pace, so hubby and I took our time and enjoyed the course.  Well...after Mr. Speedy Start stopped trying to run away from me!  He always starts out fast - but I'm a very slow runner an ace at pacing and reeled him in.

Street signs at the start.

The SubTropolis is like an underground neighborhood.  The businesses have addresses and there are street signs pointing the way.  I was intrigued by all of the "no idling" signs.  Being underground, I'm sure that vehicle emissions would be a concern.

I was surprised at how many aid stations there were!  We passed one every mile with volunteers handing out water and a porta-john just in case.  The SubTropolis maintains a temperature of 65-70F all year round, so it wasn't too hot (or to cold).  I didn't stop for any water - didn't need it.

Cool how the lights snake around on the ceiling.

The finish line was fun, with a person in a groundhog costume giving high fives!  I couldn't believe the food at the finish of this 10k!  There was water, chocolate milk, bananas, oranges, tortilla roll ups (!!) with meat and cheese, and piles and piles of Kashi bars.  I was really surprised!

All-in-all a great race.  My only complaint was that there were no safety pins in the packet.  I think there were some in a bowl on the table at packet pick up - but c'mon folks, put them in the envelope with the bib! Dave ended up making a trip to Wal-Mart before the race to get a few to keep in the car.

It was nice to go and see my sister and brother in law and run with David and his brother.  No PR's were set , but we all got a few miles and a good sweat in.  The kids had a great time with their Aunt and Uncle and the ride home was somewhat quiet. :)