My First 10K

Ding ding ding! It was 5:30 on Saturday morning, and my cell phone's alarm clock was ringing.

I was reluctant (to put it mildly) to leave my warm bed. But, wanting to avoid potential traffic, and being someone who is perpetually early to things, I got up. I arrived at the shuttle parking at LaGrave Field ahead of schedule. The buses were filling with excited runners of all ages, shapes, sizes, and colors. I sat next to a lady, probably in her late 60's, who was going to do her 10th half marathon!

We were dropped off downtown, where a huge crowd was already gathered. There was plenty to do and see before the 7:30 start. I checked my purse, sipped some complimentary coffee, and meandered around Sundance Square. People-watching was awesome. There were quite a few runners wearing plastic trash bags to keep warm!

During the run, I was surprised by how quickly the time passed. I also found it odd how my hands would get hot, and then cold, and then hot again. I took my gloves off and put them back on a couple times during the run! I was also surprised to see some people walking before we'd even reached the one-mile marker.

The course was great. There were uphill and downhill slopes, curves and straights. I was glad that only one uphill, the second to last, made me think that I just might barf. Luckily that was only a fleeting thought. I ran the whole way, save the 3 seconds when I had to stop and tie my shoe. There is something very motivating about running with thousands of other people, all of us like little trains, puffing our breath into the cold morning air.

Finishing the race was the best part. Not only did I get a medal, and snacks, but I got to see my sweetheart waiting for me at the finish! (I surprised him, because I finished more quickly than I planned.) It took me 1:11:06. Hooray! I am excited to do another one in the near future!

...And here is a pic of me (tired, sweaty, but happy) with my finisher's medal! :)