Headline: Runner Takes 2nd Place!

     I ran solo today in the Concord-Merrimack SPCA 5th Annual Over the River/Through the Woods Run For the Animals 5K Road Race (whew, that's a mouthful!).  After running the St. Charles Children's Home 5K last weekend with almost 1000 runners I was a little surprised, or rather a little saddened to see only 50 runners today.  I was hoping for a big turn-out since all proceeds benefit the local shelter. 

     My overall time was 26:17, a full minute 5 seconds slower than the Nun Run last week.  But I'm not complaining, I'm actually very happy with my time!  It was an unusual course in that we actually ran over a river and through the woods, a very "cross country" style run. And surprisingly, there were several spots where it was impossible to pass the runner in front of you, like the narrow walkway on the bridge and on the wooded trail.  Unfortunately, this allowed you to be only as fast as the slowest runner in front of you.  Another spot noticed I was slowing down was in the woods.  You had to really watch where your feet were landing when running on the trail.  It was complete with exposed tree roots, branches and slippery muddy patches - the perfect recipe for rolling your ankle. 

     Out of 50 runners I came in 21st place and placed 2nd in my age group, earning me another medal!  My name was even called during the awards ceremony!  Yes, I know it's not an Olympic medal.  But you'll have to keep in mind that for someone who was never an athlete as a child and never earned a medal or trophy for athleticism, this is quite an accomplishment. 

      I'm so excited about my little medal that I haven't even taken it off yet - well, except when I hopped in the shower after the race.  I like the way it looks on me so much that I'm thinking I may just make this a permanent fashion accessory... Whadda ya think?!