It feels good to be back!
I know so many runners had that same thought cross their minds as they finally were able to sign up for spring and fall races this season.
This year was extra special for me as it was my first post partum race. Over my 21 races I’ve seen numerous kids in the crowd cheering on their Mama. And today for the first time that Mama was me! It was a great feeling. This specific race moment has actually crossed my mind for years.
I knew Oakville half marathon was going to help me get back into running as I love how organized this race always is, the route is great and the weather is usually pretty nice at the end of Sept/early October. This year was a little windy thanks to the remnants of Hurricane Ian!
Training was really relaxed this time around as I am balancing being a new mom. I was able to fit in 4 long runs, alot of stroller runs and some quicker speeds near the end of my training.
I expected to run at a 5:55 – 6:00 minute/km pace but I ended up surprising myself and getting down to 5:37- making this a sub 2 hour finish!
For any runners who are now in the mom space- stroller running is no joke! It’s an amazing workout that really helps with power and endurance.
If you are thinking of running the Oakville half marathon here is why it’s amazing:
- Well organized from sign up to bib pick up to start line
- Enjoyable flat route with lots of great views ( 2022 was a new route- Ill explain more below)
- Lots of volunteers come out to cheer
- Each km is marked
- Water/gatorade along course
- Shuttels to and from start line
- Secured baggage storage at start line
- Instant results via Sportsstats
- Welcoming atmosphere with race announcers & friendly staff
The route for 2022 was different than past years with a completly new starting point. From my previous experience the race begins at Coronation Park. However as of 2022 the race has now moved to Shell Park. I liked this change as the route now includes Bronte which is such a beautiful area of Oakville. I did not mind the out and back. I always find it fun to watch the elite runners making the dash to the finish line while I am still plugging away at the route.
I think race organizers had to make some quick changes to the route. The original course map did not take us into Water Works park at the bottom of Kerr street but this ended up being the half marathon turn around point. In order to get there a few rolling hills were incorporated into the route. I was not expecting them- but I managed okay!
In past years the race shirt and medal were a little fancier than what runners received in 2022. However, in my opinion thats not a top priority for me.
Overall I am so happy I dedicated my time to getting race ready! I had a ton of fun out on this route & my finish line hugs were better than ever this year. If you are thinking of running a fall race in 2023 I would highly reccommend Oakville!
RACHEL SCHOUTSEN 