Alarm went off at 4:30 a.m., windows were open, and I easily hopped out of bed.
There's something about a long summer day that just calls for savoring every minute of it.
Race day registration opened at 7:00, and no way was I gonna get cheated out of a shirt once again!
Sponsored by a regional track club, with a certified course and D-Tag timing, judging by last year's results I would have come in second from last in my age group had I entered in 2009.
My wife and friend cycled an hour while I stretched and answered "Of course" to the bewildered spying my ankle strap, but eventually the horn went off and the race was on.
My fastest 1 mile split for a 5K ever (8:29) felt great, but I knew that the final mile included 1/2 mile of rocks, gravel, and twigs over dirt.
All in all, I was pleased with 28:32 , only nine seconds slower than my PR for the 5K.
Two months ago I didn't even know what PR stood for, and had to guess how many miles would equal a 5K.
It was my last race as a 56 year old, since I just won't have the time after today.
The 5K I plan on racing next will be in Detroit, benefiting the Make A Wish foundation inside a cemetary.
Got to get up at 4:30 again tomorrow, will do the Sunday graveyard race as a 57 year old!
There's something about a long summer day that just calls for savoring every minute of it.
Race day registration opened at 7:00, and no way was I gonna get cheated out of a shirt once again!
Sponsored by a regional track club, with a certified course and D-Tag timing, judging by last year's results I would have come in second from last in my age group had I entered in 2009.
My wife and friend cycled an hour while I stretched and answered "Of course" to the bewildered spying my ankle strap, but eventually the horn went off and the race was on.
My fastest 1 mile split for a 5K ever (8:29) felt great, but I knew that the final mile included 1/2 mile of rocks, gravel, and twigs over dirt.
All in all, I was pleased with 28:32 , only nine seconds slower than my PR for the 5K.
Two months ago I didn't even know what PR stood for, and had to guess how many miles would equal a 5K.
It was my last race as a 56 year old, since I just won't have the time after today.
The 5K I plan on racing next will be in Detroit, benefiting the Make A Wish foundation inside a cemetary.
Got to get up at 4:30 again tomorrow, will do the Sunday graveyard race as a 57 year old!