Race for the Cure

This past Saturday, June 9, was the Race for the Cure. Weather conditions were less than idea - at 6am, it was already over 80° and 85% humidity. We parked at the RBC Center and took the provided buses over to Meredith College for the festivities.

The competitive 5k began at 7:15. I wasn't worried about competing for prizes but it seemed like a smart idea to register for the earlier race. I'm glad we did! The sky was overcast and most of the course was shaded. Some of the neighborhood residents had sprinklers and hoses set up outside for the runners to cool off a bit. There were also plenty of water stations. Still, it was ridiculous running conditions.

My original plan was to tell Mike to go ahead without me and I'd meet him at the finish line. However, since I wasn't feeling well and it was so hot, I asked him to stay with him even though I knew it would ruin his time. So Mike stayed with me, even when I had to walk a lot. Our overall time was pretty lousy: 34 minutes and 48 seconds. Not great but given a number of factors, I was pleased to come in under 35 minutes.

Also, we raised some extra money through donations from family/friends and I felt good about that.

For such a huge event, it's very well-organized and things seem to go very smoothly. I'd love to participate again next year, maybe with better results!

I loved the feeling of freedom in running, the fresh air, the feeling that the only person I'm competing with is me. -Wilma Rudolph