5K: numero quattro
This morning was the WonderGirl 5K! I didn’t get as many photos as I thought I would because Steven decided to run it with me (instead of being my photographer)!
I’m really happy Steven decided to run it. Even though we don’t talk much while we are running, it’s nice to have someone I know next to me. It keeps me going.
More than 2000 people ended up running this 5K. We got there around 8:00 (the race started at 9:00) and there were already tons of kids everywhere, getting warmed up, having their faces painted, drinking free hot coco, decorating foam tiaras to wear during the race… it was energizing to have so many people out, all so enthusiastic about the race.
I tried to take a photo of of the huge crowd…
Look how beautiful the sky was. NOT!
I saw a lot of school groups running with the young girls, but I also saw families, fathers with daughters, mother with sons, and single people like me and Steven… there was a huge variety. It was inspiring to be running by a father and daughter and hear him say, “You set the pace, and I’ll follow you.”
There was no official timing of the race. There was a clock in the end, but the focus was on everyone finishing – on everyone being a winner. We all got medals. I thought that was pretty cool.
I’m proud of my medal!
I know our time was about 2 minutes slower than normal, but I wasn’t out there to kill my last time. I was just out there to participate. (I think that is what my winter training is going to be about – staying in shape, not working on timing)
After we finished, we went back to part of the route to cheer other runners on. We did that for about 20 minutes until my Under Armour started to turn ice cold and I had to get into the car and heat up. I am happy we stayed to keep cheering though. It’s always nice to have people cheering for you, whether or not you know them!
I had a lot of fun at the event. I saw a lot of women running with younger girls, letting them set the pace, and just sticking with them. I would love to be a mentor (well, they call it a “running buddy”) like that, but I know my schedule doesn’t allow the time. I think I will contact the Girls on the Run organization near my home and see what I CAN help with.
Themocracy
Wow, good for you! I’m amazed at all the 5Ks you’ve run and also that you’ve had so many races available to you (though I shouldn’t be since you’re in/near a big city). My town has a triathlon once/year. I was going to say that was it, but I think there’s still a cross-country ski race too. And when I was in elementary school, I do remember there being a running race for some organization that I entered with my mom. We got t-shirts, yea! I’m sure there must be other races around the county, but probably none till next spring. Anyway, all this is to say that I’m impressed you’re going to keep running through winter. Way to go!
Good for you! 🙂
go Kim
go Kim
go Steven
go Kim
I am so happy to hear that it was a success. it’s kinda cool out there so you get mad props for sticking to it and making the drive
go Kim
go Kim
go Steven
go Kim
YAY! You are really impressing me with all this running! And you look so cute and happy and healthy in the pics! I’m glad there were a variety of people running-means there is hope for everyone! And I’m glad Steven decided to keep you company if it made it better for you! 🙂
claire – Thank you! I have been thinking about how lucky we are to live in the Chicago area and have so many races available to us! There are almost always a few every weekend! I think that is really hoping me stay motivated 😉
sizzle – Thanks 😀
de – It wasn’t too cold once I started running! I actually felt TOO HOT! Can you believe it?!
teeni – Thank you 🙂 I wouldn’t have minded running on my own, but it is more fun to have Steven with me 🙂
that is so awesome that Steven went with you and ran- especially since you had to get up and drive (and it was cold)!! you two are so amazing!!! and i know i keep saying it but it is so nice to have someone support you!! i’m glad that the 5k went well!! good goal for the winter, not worrying about time but just keeping in shape, that’s an excellent idea!!! AND mad props to you two for sticking around after you got done and cheering the other runners on!!! that’s so cool!!! you are kicking ass and taking names as far as your goals go!!!
=^..^=
very cool!!!!! congratulations!!!
CourtneyInControl – Thanks for your enthusiasm! You’re one of my favorite cheerleaders 🙂 I am excited to keep training during the winter and stay in shape. I hope to train for longer distances and start working on my time again in the spring!
marissa – Thanks 😀
You’re an inspiration. 🙂
Jillian – Thank you 🙂 You’re so nice to say that 😀
My comment disappeared! I said I was happy you got to do it, but sad I missed it.
I think I asked if you and Steven run the same speed because my husband and I are nowhere close to being the same speed.
tori – I am sorry your comment disappeared! WordPress has been funny lately. I will write a huge LONG response and when it goes away… I am so p’od! Steven and I run close to the same speed, but we are still working on staying consistent with one another. It’s pretty hard, but I think worth it, to train that way.
Such an awesome photo of you….. Congrats on another race.
BTW, I get the “Internal Server Error” often out here. I keep refreshing the page until it finishes posting the comment.
martymankins – Thanks! And I am going to look into the “Internal Server Error” thing. That is what I am getting too 🙁
WTG!!!!
Gratz on another race 🙂
Felicia – Thanks! 😀 😀 😀