Friday's Featured 5k of the Week - BTPD Turkey Trot Predictor Race

Bourbonnais Township Park District
Turkey Trot Predictor Race

What is it?
A Predictor Race is where the runners predict their finish time before the race starts.  Runners are not allowed to wear watches, GPSes, or iPodwear that also times.  There are no clocks on the course (some 5ks have timing clocks on the miles, or at half way).  There isn't even a timing clock visible at the finish line.

What is the point?
FUN.  Some people pick their average time, some shoot for PRs, some use last year's time, some even opt for a leisurely pace.  The idea is just for fun.  At this event, the top 5 closest predictions win a free turkey.

What else?
Well, basically it's like every other 5k - you run to have fun, to exercise, and to give your best effort for that particular day.  Also, being that is was 16 degrees that morning - they had a nice campfire going before, during, and after the race.  Not only did that provide some warmth - it also provided a gathering place - which is where some of the most fun at a 5k happens - the hanging out with fellow runners!!

Where?
This Predictor Race took place at Perry Farm Park in Bourbonnais, IL.  The 5k was a twice-around loop within the Park itself.  (There was also a 10k - that ran a slightly separate route, and a 2 mile walk which shared some of the course)  This is the course that prompted me to make a post and tweet that said "The worst way to start a 5k is with a long downhill....because that means there is an uphill coming up".  The course starts relatively flat, then begins a long downhill, which at first is gradual then gets steeper until bottoming out.  The time at the bottom of the hill is not long.  The course then starts a steep uphill which gradually becomes less steep and eventually flat.  And of course, being a twice-around - you get to do it again.  Gotta love the surprises, but that's the fun of a 5k - the terrain.

When?
This event has passed for 2014 - but it happens in November each year.  Registration is through the Bourbonnais Township Park District