Magnussen & Fisher Heat Up Pt Defiance on July 4th

07/09/2026

Tacoma Independence Day 5k

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.