Magnussen & Fisher Heat Up Pt Defiance on July 4th

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The Tacoma Independence Day 5k

By Karl Johnson
with photos by Bruce Fisher

Michael Magnussen and Chris Fisher took advantage of the fast downhill course and turned in performances worthy of fireworks. Magnussen broke the 18-minute mark with a time of 17:57 while Chris was close behind with a time of 18:09. They were the first male Silver Striders and finished in the top 25 of a field of 1100 runners. The first female Silver Strider was Tina Miller with a time of 21:06. After a short delay at the start while waiting for shuttle buses, the race was underway at about 8:15.

Conditions were ideal for the race with overcast skies at the start giving way to sunshine moments later. While I don’t like mass starts, this one wasn’t too bad as the roads were wide enough to accommodate the numbers without the course feeling congested. After a steady downhill for most of the course we finished out with a run along the waterfront giving beautiful views of Puget Sound. The finish area was crowded but manageable with lines that moved steadily for water and snacks and the finisher’s shirts. A live band added to the festive atmosphere.

Personally, I am still working through some ankle pain. Even so, I still managed a fairly respectable time for myself. As I ease back into my training routine I expect to be back to my former times before long.

Afterwards several gathered at Ben Dews Restaurant for the post-race Camaraderie Brunch.

All in all, I hope everyone had a very

!ʜƚ4 yqqɒH

By Karl Johnson
with photos by Bruce Fisher and group photo by Nancy Larson