Stepped out the door Saturday morning into a crisp autumn breeze and temperatures bordering on cold.
I always feel alive during these pre-dawn hours. It's 6:30, still dark but a hint of the coming sun over the Blue Ridge mnts. I've taken my shower, downed several cups of coffee (go juice) packed my race bag and struggled over what to wear. It's another race morning like a hundred before, but still there's the excitement and butterflies in the stomach over what lies ahead in a couple hours.
Today's race is the 1st annual Luray Homecoming 5k., a new event directed cross country coach Tara Edwards.
It's nice to visit my "home" county (Page) again. I don't get down here often but it's always nice to return.
The sun is almost up as I enter Luray....time to stop for more coffee then on to the high school. Now this is the first time I've visited Luray High...it's a striking new school, but I do feel I'm in enemy territory.( I attended Elkton High School) A lot of new faces greet me ..the race staff were extremely friendly..then a few familiar faces appear...namely the "M&M" boys..Mark and Mike ... a couple of my newer friends I've had the pleasure of running with the last few years.
The run starts into the sun and a stiffening morning breeze. It sure feels colder than what it probably is.
My legs feel great but my chest is still congested from a lung and nose infection. I have to keep clearing my throat but I'm moving better than I thought I would. The course is beautiful with scenic country pastures and rolling hills. The first mile comes quickly and all is good. I'm closing in on the halfway/ turnaround..Mark passes by....I reach what I think is turn only to find a 100 plus yd climb..thanks Tara..I guess it's payback for the hills I've made you run! The hill saps me! Gotta walk the final 10 yds to the top!
Now it's downhill and back to the school. I'm hanging on now..one step in front of the other...one step closer....you know what I'm saying. My legs want to go but my lungs are burning and more oxygen is wanted. Walk again..run and walk again that's the pattern this morning. Make the turn for home... a 1/4 mile gentle climb to the finish, I push for the line and relief for my lungs. DONE! My time is slow but faster than I predicted.
Another race under me and the satisfaction of completing another event. Time to head home, prop up the feet and have a cold one!
Thanks and congratulations Tara on a great 1st race...job well done!
Training lies ahead this week. The Breast Cancer 5k awaits Saturday
Shuffle on Friends!
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