This was my 4th time doing the Hot Chocolate Run!
I skipped last year after I tore my meniscus, but doing the 5k this year reminded me why I love races! (It also helped that it wasn’t pouring rain like it has been in the past!)
This one is especially fun because they have great swag and of course Hot Chocolate at the end!
I would definitely recommend this race for any level! Here are my quick tips:
- When you register choose your fastest possible time: Don’t sell yourself short! Plus this is a huge race so the slower you are the further back you start. This time we started in Corral C and that was perfect because everyone started at a running pace, but there was plenty of room and time to jog as needed.
- Don’t burn all your energy on the hills: If you haven’t run here before, the hills might be daunting and there’s no shame in jogging or speed walking! You’d be surprised at how much time you make up on the downhill parts.
- Set up the night before!: This is a must for most races because they’re usually pretty early, but this one you can actually sleep until the last minute because you pretty much just show up and race!
- Make a plan for transportation to and from Seattle Center: In the past I’ve taken an uber or a lyft and that’s worked pretty well! You can also hang out in the armory and charge your phone or grab some coffee or food. There’s also decent street parking around Queen Anne (free on Sunday) and parking lots ($10-20). The one thing to remember is that if you do the 5k they block the road after your race for the 15k so you’re trapped! It’s easy to get around, but it could add about 20 extra minutes especially if you need to get into the city.
- After the race take an Epsom Salt Bath: This is one of my guilty pleasures and it is the best thing to warm up after a cold morning and soothe your muscles so they don’t ache. I usually buy Dr. Teal’s Pre/Post Workout, but I love the foaming bath too!
Briana Ledesma 