There were two local races on New Year's Day, and I waffled between which one I should do. Or if I should do one at all. The forecast told me it was going to be cold. And I knew I'd be working New Year's Eve. Would I be too tired? But on Dec. 30, after talking to some friends, I decided to sign up. I just chose one and went for it.
On the morning of the race, I went to pick up my packet at one of the newer gyms in the city. It was really fancy. Probably too fancy for me. The front desk person was wearing a suit. There was a spa and a cafe. It seemed like overkill for somewhere I'm going to sweat. But more power to the people who enjoy it.
Anyhow, I got my packet and still had quite a bit of time to waste. So I ran some quick errands and returned to the fitness center for the race. I stood around and noticed no one else seemed to be doing the same. I don't know why, but it really didn't strike me as odd until 10 minutes before race time. I went over to ask the gentleman at the registration table and he told me the race was actually starting at a nearby trailhead. It was a five-minute drive. I hurried out to my car and barely made it to the start line as they started moving.
It was a bit chilly on this crisp winter morning, but once I got running, I was fine. The neck and face warmer I purchased helped quite a bit as well. Honestly, I was more concerned about the icy patches than the temperature.
I didn't wear my watch and there was no chip timing, so I don't know what my time was. But I honestly don't care. The run felt good, and it was the perfect way to start 2016.
As you might remember, I plan to do one race a month this year. So ... one down and eleven to go!
Much like 2015's DSM Turkey Trot, my latest race helped me cross something off the running bucket list I haven't officially made. Maybe I should write one out.
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Last week's workouts
Friday: Commitment Run 5KSaturday: Off
Sunday: Off
Monday: 3 miles on the treadmill
Tuesday: Barre class + 2 miles on the treadmill
Wednesday: FitFusion
Thursday: Off
I'm trying to get more serious about my workouts. The winter blues have been sneaking up on me, and I tend to feel better emotionally when I'm more active. I'm starting a new fitness program at my office on Monday, so I'll definitely see lots of activity over the next eight weeks!
Great job getting your first race out of the way on a COLD day!
ReplyDeleteI think it's so awesome that you did it.
ReplyDeleteThat gym sounds ridiculously fancy, though. Wow!