On Sunday, February 17, Lighthouse Events held the fifth race in its six-part winter race series, The Cupid Shuffle. This Valentine’s Day-themed race was an out-and-back 5K loop that began and ended at Lake Country Lutheran High School in Hartland, Wisconsin.
A 5K and 10K distance option were provided to runners who tackled a snowy morning and a very challenging course. The entire course took place on the residential streets of Hartland, Wisconsin, which were packed down in snow from the fresh arrival that morning. Snow began early and continued throughout the 9 a.m. start.
It took me 4.3 miles to figure out that running in snow feels practically the same as running through sand. It took me .3 miles to figure out that it was tough. The snow-packed streets created a challenge and inhibited traction with each tread; my gait was off nearly the entire race and establishing an even cadence was nearly impossible as the ground conditions were inconsistent. Despite the challenges this presented, I was happy that ice was not an issue, as most of it had been salted away on the course.
Lighthouse Events does an excellent job staffing races with aid stations, cheerful volunteers, and clear course markings. The energy of the runners was jovial as we tackled the hilly course. There were only a few flat segments, as runners went up and down several times throughout the three-mile loop.
I thoroughly enjoyed the course and training, especially as I am preparing for Boston in April. Being able to tackle elevation at a tempo pace of a 10K midway through my Boston training was extremely effective and helpful. This is a great race to add to your winter schedule if you are training for any spring marathon, but Boston in particular.
All racers received a short-sleeved technical t-shirt and a Valentine’s Day themed medal. A unique aspect of Lighthouse Events is that all first through 10th age group winners receive a medal as well. So, many runners left the race with two medals draped around their necks.
With the snowy and chilly conditions, it was also nice to be able to wait inside a heated high school with indoor plumbing! Overall, it was a fun morning spent with an energetic and encouraging group of runners.
First through third female 10K winners were Christy Murray, Shannon Rolbiecki, and Sara Lancour. First through third male 10K winners were Mike Deau, John Rapp, and David Markle.
First through third female 5K winners were: Lisa Johnson, Samantha Foster, and Angie Kaiser. First through third male 5K winners were: Liam Kelley, Ben Lamers, and Quinn McCabe.
