The first 5k of the season is in the books. This past Saturday, I participated in the Run to the Resurrection 5k held at a local church. I’ve enjoyed this race over the last couple of years for a few reasons. First, the entry fee is literally a few can goods or a small donation. There are no frills or prizes to be won. It is just a family event that gets the blood flowing before a fun holiday with lots of candy. Second, this race is designed for the season runner looking to PR or the beginner looking to finish. Since the course is 3 laps around a friendly neighborhood, there is always someone to cheer you on at every corner. Seriously, by lap 3 they may even know your name!
This year, a friend of mine asked me to participate with her. Unfortunately, she came down with a cold and was unable to attend. But, the race went on and so did I. However, this race didn’t go as smoothly as I had planned.
The night before I set my alarm for 6am. It takes a lot more work to get ready for races when you have to pack up a baby. I went to bed by 10 (I know, I’m such a party animal), and wanted to make sure I got plenty of rest. I hadn’t been able to run much during the week leading up to the race so I was a tad nervous. Morning came and my hubby’s alarm went off at 4am. He needed to be at work by 5. Sadly, the dogs thought this was their normal wake up time, so I had to take them out at 4:30ish. I finally got back to bed at 5am. I was passed out when I heard the dogs starting to bark. I immediately panicked and sure enough my ride (the trusted parents) were in my driveway. I race (no pun intended) downstairs to let my mom in and then back up to rush to get ready. Mom tended to Hailey and got her ready as I hurried gathering my stuff and anything needed for the diaper bag. We make it in the car within 10 min. of them being in our driveway.
After apologizing a few times, we make it to the race and a good number of people were already there warming up. I, of course, need to feed Hailey prior to the race starting. A quick bit to eat and then I am able to bundle her into the stroller for our warm up. We take a small jaunt around part of the neighborhood route with a fellow church runner. It was a slow, but steady pace that allowed me to get used to pushing Hailey.
The race started promptly at 8:30am and I started towards the back because I was the only one with a stroller. I was able to pass a few people within the first mile. I was at a slow and steady pace of 9:30/mile for the first mile and then 10:20/mile for the second. Honestly, I was a little tired. However, when we finished the second mile, my mom was waiting on the sideline. Unfortunately, her back was hurting and she needed to bow out before injuring it further. The race season is just beginning to have an injury already. So, I stop Hailey with her and then take off for the last mile. I manage to run the last mile at a 9:17/mi. pace and felt like I was picking up the pace as the mile went on.
As I completed my race, I look to find Hailey and my mom. It is at this time that I am questioned as to why I had the front wheel locked. I had no idea that the front wheel could lock into place. I knew the back wheels were fine, but the front apparently can lock (which makes turning rather difficult). So, all in all I set my alarm clock for the wrong day and I ran 2.5 miles (when you include the warm up) with the front wheel locked. For those circumstances, I am completely ok with my pace.
I am trying to figure out which race I want to compete in next and if I will push Hailey or have her stay on the sidelines with her daddy. However, I know that I will enjoy every minute of the race and be proud of my time.
Anyone else have a funny story about a race they participated in recently? Until next time, be confident! Be fit! Be you!
confidentandfitmom 
You did great!!! It will take time to learn all the parts of running with Hailey. She will be a child who will grow to love activity and staying fit by your example.
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