We had an early rise and shine this morning as we started our official race season with the My Better Half Marathon (and 10k/5k). Last year I was so lonely racing. I met friends there but once you cross the start line and start running, you’re pretty much on your own. I don’t like to pace with anyone as I hate to feel like I’m holding someone back, so the celebration at the end is usually a lonely affair with me grabbing swag and scooting to my car asap. This year I cut my race quantity in half so I could bring a friend to my races. I spent just as much on enrollment but I’ll have a kid or two with me on each race!
Today it was all three of us; I ran the 5k with Jude while Gigi ran the 10k. Last year Gigi won first place and a blanket for the 10k, so hopes were high as we headed out. We knew there were prizes for the top three in each category, but also knew that little kids were more likely to run the 5k, so Jude probably wouldn’t win, while Gigi had a fighting chance; not many kids sign up for the 10k. Jude trucked around there, chatting it up with fellow runners, sharing information about races he’d run prior… yep. He was ‘that guy’. I finally had to tell him to let people focus as the lady he was talking to was gasping for breath and there’s this little chatterbug next to her asking questions a million miles an hour… but goodness he was cute.
We reached the end faster than anyone expected. Jude was surprised at how easy three miles felt after sufficient training and declared that he loves races, medals and running, but made it clear that it’s only fun at races. Training is not fun but he’s willing to do it for the bling and bragging rights of races. He let me know that he is interested in running the 10k next year. My proud mama buttons kinda burst right then. And if they popped then they sure flew themselves across the room when both of my kids placed third in their age divisions!!! They each earned a cupcake to nibble on tonight.
I make no secret of my love for Orca Races and ran a bunch of them last year, before I became a running ambassador. Our next one is coming up for St. Patrick’s Day: The Kirkland Shamrock Run! You should come, too, and if you do, use my code: tamarashazam17 for 10% off!
What a great way to start the running season! You must be so proud of your kids. And I am so proud of you. You inspire by example. It is great that you have a group to run with. My husband runs with me & it is great to have someone to celebrate crossing the finish line with. I didn’t see a picture of the husband. Hope he didn’t miss the race due to injury.