Trail Running Blog

Hot Chocolate Run 15K Race Report

Disclaimer: I received an entry to the Hot Chocolate 15K/5K to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!

It’s been a few years since I last ran the Hot Chocolate 15K/5K but was definitely looking forward to this year. The initial plan was to run the 5K but I decided to try running the 15K instead. The training leading up to the race was pretty limited, mostly 3 mile runs with a few longer runs here and there. If anything, I would have used this as a long, training run for another race in the future. The event was very well organized, there were safety precautions at the race expo and all the different booths and stations were spread out the morning of the race. When you register for the race, you choose your estimated pace/finish time which then places you in a specific corral for the start of the race. None of the corrals were too crowded which was good to see. Here are the official results: 9.3 miles, 1:12:18, 7:46 min/mile. 45 out of 1,841 place overall, 28 out of 601 place for men, and 5 out of 72 place in my age group.

Running during a Severe Thunderstorm Warning

You should understand the risks of running during a thunderstorm and decide if it’s worth the risk for you. There are certainly risks to running during a severe thunderstorm warning. However, as long as you take precautions and know what to look out for you will be better equipped to deal with severe conditions.

If you choose to run in a thunderstorm, remember to keep track of the weather. Particularly avoid thunderstorms with the risk of lightning, and please be aware of the differences between severe thunderstorms and regular ones.

Runners are a determined breed who, oftentimes, are not deterred when their plans are interrupted by inclement weather. But sometimes good judgment should rule overdetermination, and in the case of practice during severe thunderstorms, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Below we lay out precautions you could take if you find yourself caught in a storm while running.

Thunderstorms are common in the spring and summer. While it may be safe to go for a run during most thunderstorms, there is a risk of being struck by lightning or flash floods. Be aware of weather conditions before you head out and use your best judgment.