First off, want to give a shout-out to Hunter for posting this route. Fun, fast, and varied - well worth the run.
Started off just before 6:30 and the sunrise at the cannon. Right as I was about to start I got dive-bombed by a bird, but luckily I'm too quick and he missed! After that I knew I was in for a good day... Started with 1L of water, a gel, and my home-made sport rice crispy (marshmallows, puffed rice, puffed wheat, oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder) - delish.
The first section was the section I hadn't run before and so it ended up being my slowest due to route-finding, crosswalks, and dodging the Bridgeport drivers. Passed a Lada dealership - my favorite Russian car by far. Is there really any other?
Once I got onto the zoo path I felt like I finally had the space to pick up the pace. Was originally shooting for sub 7:30 but since I was feeling good decided to shoot for sub 7:00s. The path was practically empty at this time of day. It was pleasantly cool and nice to run alongside the river for a bit. The path here is pretty slanted at some points and I think my left leg is now longer than my right. Like Pisa on a bad day.
My favorite section by far is the Pequonnock River Valley State Park section. 3.5 miles of cinder speed. Dang, that'd be a sweet album name - Cinder Speed. I'd listen to that.
Really felt the slow incline around mile 12. Reminded me that someone could easily smash the FKT with the same effort I did today if they just ran the other way and took advantage of the gentle downhill.
The route finishes on some single-track and at this point in the year it is passable but overgrown. Actually enjoyed it and it kind of felt like running through a crowd at the finish line. Love how it starts on main streets in Bridgeport, hits the nice rail trails, and finishes on single-track. A narrowing of the trail helps to focus the pace.
All in all, a good day on the trail!