I RAN THE WHOLE TIME.  Seems silly, right?  Running 3 miles when you’re 27 and somewhat active should be easy.  It is not for me.  I have never been a runner.  I have ankles that have been broken numerous times and knees that are double jointed and sometimes just don’t like working… could have been playing hockey all those years and slamming into the boards.  My awesome sister (in-law) has recently started running and absolutely loves it.  She has worked her tail off, but is always so excited about her races.

I got my mom involved in the Couch to 5k plan and we had a blast this summer with our weekly run/walks.  It only made sense to finish off our summer with a 5k.  We found the Women Run the Cities 5k run/walk that took place yesterday 9/23.  It is a women’s only race along the Mississippi River that benefits the Ann Bancroft Foundation.  There were 2700 participants between the 5k and the 10 mile run.  We had a team of 7 runners (although Katie got sick that morning, so we only ran with 6.)  My mom and 2 of her good friends and then myself and 2 of my good friends.  It was so fun doing it with a group and getting to celebrate afterwards, plus it really helped to keep me going throughout the race knowing that others were there watching and encouraging.

I ran with Annika (who is a crazy half-marathoner) and we had a blast.  We chatted for the first 2.5 miles and then she allowed me to quietly struggle through the final stretch.  It was so helpful to have her with me because it distracted me from checking my time or how far we had left to run.  We also passed the first few ladies to finish the 10 mile run and I was amazed at the speed of these women, not to mention, they didn’t look like they were about to die from exhaustion.

One of the announcers at the awards ceremony reminded everyone, “It is not about coming in first, or in the middle of the pack, or at the end, but it’s the gratification you receive from finishing a race that makes it all worth it.”  She was so right.  It didn’t bug me that I tied with Annika and another lady for 500th place in the race.  I was just happy that I finished it and ran the whole time.  Now, I have a time to beat which is an exciting challenge – 33:37 – average of 10:50/mile.  I wondered if I would finish this one and decide that running is not for me and be done… instead, I found myself searching for the next one and deciding who might be interested in running with me.  I’m still not sure if I will become a runner, but doing a few of these each year will be a fun active challenge that requires a little more ambition.

Here is the website for the event:  http://www.womenrunthecities.com/

My 30 before 30 list can be updated now as well.  Not only did I “participate” in a 5k, I actually ran in one.  Thanks Holly, Mom, Annika, Julie, Carol & Brooke!  Brooke – when that baby comes, you & I will find a really fun run to do together.