… wins the race!
Well, maybe not necessarily WIN… but atleast enjoys the race!
This morning I ran my first road race – in 2 years (since June of 2007).
My last race I ran was June 2007 in Kansas City, MO – The Hospital Hill 1/2 Marathon. I ran that race with a good friend from college, while my mom and sister entertained my oldest son, Calvin.
Shortly after that race (a few days later!) I got pregnant with #2 Peyton. Life happened… and then the miracle of life happened sooner than expected, and we were pregnant again with another blessing, #3 Tristen.
Needless to say, I was so busy raising these boys… birthing children… and nursing children (I am still nursing Tristen). That I put myself and my goals on the back burner.
This past May, when I turned 30 years old, I decided to put my needs and goals as a priority. I wanted to get serious about running again – and that included racing. I wanted to do this for health… but also for the much needed aloneand me time that I so desperately needed/craved!
Okay, back to my race this morning. It was a local 5K race. It was a small turnout… maybe 150 participants of all ages, shapes and abilities.
I know that I have mentioned this before… I LOVE RUNNING but really don’t like racing.
However, each time I race I am reminded how much I love the commadre of runners. We cheer our competitors on (even while running up a huge hill!) and we can chat it up with them before and after a race about life!
LOVE my fellow athletes and RUNNERS!
This morning was no different. There were people running the race as young as 5 years old to vintage (70+ yrs).
There were runners of all shapes and sizes and ability levels.
We were all there for different reasons… with different goals in mind. But we all shared a common passion/love – running.
The course was VERY hilly!
While running UP the hills, I had to make a conscious effort to drive my arms and lift my legs/knees. (I am only 5’2″ so using my little legs takes some effort).
While running DOWN the hills, I took full advantage of gravity. I elongated my stride and soared down the hill(s).
I PR’d (personal record – personal best) my time.
I finished my 5K this morning in: 28:47 (average 9:15 min/mile)
I finished 17th overall.
I placed 2nd in my age division (19-30 year old).
I even got a medal!
Heather @ Not a DIY Life says
Rachel, I got chills reading this. I’m so proud of you!! For running today & medaling. For setting a goal and seeing it through. For knowing that you need that alone time & running is a great way to get it.
Congrats on a great race today!!! (When is the next one?) 😉
Rachel says
Thank you, Heather! My next race is October 10th. I will be running a half marathon in my town. 🙂
amanda says
Good job! So proud of you! Rock it girl!
(and that shirt is HUGE on you!!)
Rachel says
I know, right!? It is Gabe’s shirt. I was trying to get ready for the race when the house was still sleeping (6:15AM) and grabbed his shirt instead of mine. I didn’t mind too much because it covered my bum. Although… it did twist and bunch while running – which was NO fun! 😛
Greta says
you’re my idol!! cute pics.
@PamelaMKramer - A Renaissance Woman says
Geez girl! You did SUPER fantastic. Congrats to you and put that medal in a special place.
lorrie says
great photos glad you did great at the race good job
Marie says
AMAZING!!! Simply amazing! 2nd place is AWESOME! I am so excited for you (in case you couldn’t tell). Hang that medal up somewhere you can see it everyday to keep you motivated for the next goal! Congrats!
Resa says
WOO!!! That’s amazing – I’m so proud!! Seriously, 2nd in your age group is killer!