LaConner Smelt Run

Speed was king today and the couple hundred runners didn't disappoint. This was one of those races where you look around and everyone looks like a runner. I'm not talking about sleek running clothes, high end shoes, and watches that not only tell time but provide heart rate, pace, intervals, and remind you to pee before you run. I'm talking toned bodies. Healthy looking people. Butts that don't continue to giggle for a few minutes after the person stops moving....

This race was my coming out. Or coming back I should say. I haven't trained much but did arrive with inhaler in hand. For me today wasn't so much about speed as it was about getting back in the groove, running and breathing, being part of the running scene, and having that feeling of achievement when you cross the finish line. I did have some speed though today was not the best time I've recorded - it smoked my last two races however. Before I get too cocky, let me say that I see-sawed with a runner during the race. He was ahead then I overtook him. He'd overtake me. He was ahead on the home stretch and I was hurting. I pushed and crossed the finish line a few steps before him. Ha! I thought to myself. Who's the man now! Then I saw the results board and while I beat him, I looked at his age. He was 66.....He's the man.

I managed a 23:30 (7:32 minute pace), came in 37th overall, and the best part was that after crossing the finish line I was able to take full breaths....who would have thought that would ever be a highlight for me??? It was a hard run but improvement is now more a matter of conditioning than anything else. Later today my training plan will be set for the next 5K....thanks Sharon.

Speaking of Sharon....she ran very well today. Not well if you ask her but very well if you ask anyone else. She sets high expectations for herself and doesn't (but should) take time to celebrate her victories. She ran a 21:19 (6:51 minute pace), came in 21st overall. Better yet, in the woman's division she was 2nd. She led most of the race and was leading down the home stretch. She was passed before the finish. Who stole 1st place from our 40 year old friend? How about a 20 year old who runs for Western. The difference was 3 seconds. All I can say is way to go Sharon - that girl was half your age and she had to give all those young legs had to give to squeak in the win. Sharon won her age group and walked away with a medal. I wonder what that would feel like...pretty freakin good I think.

Note the new photos to the left - big thanks to Albert for bringing his camera. Albert....talk about speed. He came in 16th overall with a blistering 20:50 (6:42 minute pace). This course was an out and back and I saw him coming back and he was movin. Gads that guy can make speed look easy. I think he actually smiles when he runs. My face is a grimace, I'm sucking air, snotty nose, and an occasional drool. Albert was king of the one liners today and had us in stitches.

Today was a good day. If you don't run, try it. Walk....Jog....Run....you'll feel better because of it and if you're lucky like me, you'll find running buddies as special as mine. They support you but aren't afraid to push you to the next level.