2023 Palmetto Dunes Turtle Trot 5K Review

 This was my 4th time competing in the Turtle Trot 5K held in the Palmetto Dunes plantation of Hilton Head, SC.  Competing in this race has become a vacation tradition for me.  How often do you get to run on a flat compacted sand beach let alone race on one?  Heat, humidity, and wind are always factors at this race but elevation never is.  The race is offered every Wednesday in Palmetto Dunes during the summer season .  There are usually 300-600 participants each week.  My race had a smaller field of 160 participants which was probably due to the lateness of the summer vacation season.  The race benefits turtle conservation and protection organizations on the island so it is a great cause.

The morning of the race temperatures were in the high 80’s with high humidity that made it feel like the high 90’s.  The course is split in thirds with two turnaround points.  Runners are required to hydrate while crossing the mid point of the race.  Runners not hydrating can be disqualified.

I got off to a fast start finishing the first mile in about 7 minutes.  There were a lot of fast young runners in the field.  Mile 2 the heat and sun started to slow me down.  My pace slowed but so did many other runners ahead of me that I was able to pass.  The last mile I slowed down a little more in the first half but then was able to pick it back up again for a strong finish.  The last 100 meters I was lucky enough to run with a very young golden doodle puppy who broke loose from his owner and decided to chase me.  We ran side by side through the finish line where his owners finally regained control of him.  They apologized several times but I explained to them what a dog lover I am and loved having the puppy run with me.  I even took a picture with the puppy after the race.  I finished the race in 22:29 which was over a minute faster than last year.  I was 11th overall on 1st in my age division.  There are no awards at this race.

The race was well organized by Hilton Head Running Company.  All participants received nice t-shirts and lots of water at the finish.   Lots of families participate in the race as well as many walkers.  I would like to see awards offered at the race and maybe some post race snacks.  The race has a little bit for everyone and is a great vacation activity I highly recommend when visiting Hilton Head during the summer.