Today was my last race of the 2009 season, the Jingle Bell run. It was a brisk 23 degrees but no winds and the sun was peeking through. I arrived promptly at 8:08 am for the 8:15 am start time. Just in time to find the john and get in my spot. But when I walked up the announcer says "The start of the race has been postponed until 8:30 am." Ok, it's not that bad, but I time these things for minimal cold exposure. I got in line to go into the State Museum to stretch but there was no room at all, so I just did a U-ey and got in my spot. This time I got in front of the 8 min mile sign thinking that wasn't cheating too bad. I did plan to run 8:10s. I was trying to get proof that I am still the runner that knows what pace they can handle and get in my appropriate "corral" but missed the top of the sign.
As usual, people were peeling off left and right starting to walk less than 1/2 mile in. I had to do some bobbin' and weavin' but made it thru and held a good pace. Lots of young kids today representing different middle schools. But most entertaining is that this race brings out all kinds of interesting costumes. Trees, elves, Santas, Dick Guy in a box.
As I was crossing the finish line, I noticed this guy cheering me on!"
I finished slightly faster than last year at 25:05 and since I was feeling pretty good after the race, I tagged on 2 extra miles around downtown before I headed home.
So this concludes my race season. I started running one community event a month back in 2007. I didn't make 100% that year due to some medical issues, but 2008 and 2009 have both been 12 for 12. Not sure what I'll do to up the ante next year. 2 a month? Different cities? Try to get someone to join me each run? Guess I have a few days to figure it out. Until then, 2010 starts off with Bop to the Top. Who's with me?!
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