In 2021, this race was the first in-person race without COVID restrictions. The Coldwell Banker Elite Grand Prix allows participants to run series races virtually and receive finisher credit. I ran a marathon on the SPCA race date and used a portion of that race for finish credit.
The SPCA has managed this race since 2003. This race was their 19th edition, missing only 2020 for COVID.
In the late 80s, the Rappahannock Area YMCA started the River Run 5km in early spring and laid out the course beginning on Caroline Street at the Library and finishing behind the Library on Sophia Street. They reused the circuit for the initial Turkey Trots, starting in 1993. This course was the first one I measured for USATF certification in 1995. So I’m estimating somebody has used this route for more than 30 years.
In 2003, the SPCA wanted to hold a fundraiser, managed their first 5 km, and took advantage of the certified course. The SPCA has been able to use this course and is one of the last 5 km races in the city entirely on the public streets. Working with the city and holding the race at 7 am on a Sunday helps the SPCA maintain the permit.
There was a change in this year’s course that moved the start line to Sophia Street. Requiring two turns in the first half-mile slowed the field as they linked to the classic route.
I don’t know what the weather was like in Fredericksburg. My race on the open range had a dew point in the of 48 at the start and pleasant spring temperatures.
I’ve run the new SPCA course three times this spring, detouring onto the Heritage Trail at Old Mill Park. My three times were 38:24, 36:02, and 36:05. Should I use the 36:02 for my virtual time? Though, my 5km split in the marathon was 31:28.
I’ll post my marathon race report soon and be in person at the 2023 SPCA 5km Rescue Run.