Firecracker 4

On July 4th, I ran the Firecracker 4 which is a 4 mile road race in historical Saratoga Springs, New York. This was my fourth time running this race. I am pleased to report that I hit a PR for this race. Here is a chart of my results the past four years:

Year	Time	Pace	Division Place	Division Total	% of Division
2019	48:38	12:09	78	101	77.2%
2018	51:33	12:53	74	100	74.0%
2017	48:45	12:11	76	98	77.6%
2016	51:48	12:57	136	158	86.1%

In 2016, I was the oldest age in my division and I had my slowest time for this race; there are a lot more runners in the younger divisions. In 2018, it was extremely hot and the entire field ran very slowly. Yesterday, even though I was about 3 minutes faster overall than 2018, I was slower compared to the runners in my division. With a pace of 12:09, I am good with it!

Smiling for the finish line photo 

Lots of runners 

In a couple of decades, when I get to the 70 - 74, 75 - 79, 80 + I will be in the top 3 of my division and earn a medal!

Overall, it was a lot of fun. People get into the spirit with lots of red, white and blue clothes, tutus, and even headware to be seen. They added a free beer ticket after the race this year. The only time I drink beer is after a run that includes beer! But it certainly hit the spot on a hot day.