Jeff wanted to run yet another race, as he’s getting the “bug.” I remember what that’s like! I used to run a race (sometimes even two) just about every weekend this time of year as well as during the fall months. Lately, I’m back to my old ways. Yes, I blame Jeff.

We chose this race because his mother, Brenda Allen, and her husband, Larry, live in Mebane. We hoped that they would be able to see us run, but she had work-related tasks to attend to. She’s the director of the Mebane, Burlington, and Graham Loaves & Fishes. Support her if you can!

I was concerned that the race wasn’t going to be well organized or start on time, as prior to the race the registration lines were long and no one seemed to know where the race starting line was. It was happily surprised, and I am delighted to report that the race was very well organized, including wonderful support from the volunteers, local police, and race organizers. Well done! The race organizers expected about 100 runners, and more than 300 ran or walked.

I ran 8 miles at Umstead Thursday evening at a rather fast pace, and had a challenging workout yesterday with my PT; thus, I was concerned that my legs were going to be too tired to race. I ran a mile or so warm-up, and my legs did feel a little heavy.

I ran in my brand spanking new Craft Bull City Track Club tee, Nike shorts, and Brooks Green Silence shoes.

The runners lined up in front of the elementary school near the intersection of W. Carr and N. Charles. The starting line was very crowded, and teenagers, runners from the local running club, and a man pushing a double baby jogger (who told me he didn’t want to have to pass all of the slower runners), surrounded me. The race began a little after 8:30, and as soon as it did I was off. I wanted to make sure I didn’t get tripped up and/or run over. For the first mile or so, I could hear at least one other runner’s footsteps. I didn’t look back until the course took a left on W 9^th St., and the next runner was a good 30 seconds or more back. The course was not without its challenges, as their were hills and the last quarter mile or so leading to the finish was a somewhat steep uphill.

I once again (boringly) led from start to finish. The second place finisher’s time was 19 and change.

I soon as I crossed the finish line and had my chip removed, I ran to find Jeff. So that I could watch his form, I ran  a few yards in front of him and I ran backwards. I heard quite a few remarks about this… I shouted encouragement to all of the runners, including a young boy who couldn’t have been more than 10 who finished just behind Jeff (whose time was 23.27, his personal best). Jeff told me that the young boy had started the race on my heels, but had fallen back as the race progressed.

After I raced Jeff in, I attempted to run at least part of the course again as a cool-down. I hadn’t run more than a mile when a runner said, “Are you going to help that boy who fell?” I then saw a boy of 8 or so sitting on the sidewalk with a woman who was taking his pulse. She said that she had seen him weave on the road, and then collapse. Given my showing at the Wrightsville Beach marathon, I knew what had probably happened. I stayed with them a moment, and then ran ahead, as I knew there would still be police officers on the course directing traffic. I ran to the first officer I could find, explained what had happened, and requested that EMS be called to the site. I ran back to the boy just as a police officer arrived, who informed us that an ambulance was on its way. (Anyone from Mebane who might happen to read this and can provide an update, please do so.)

As Jeff and I were waiting for the awards, a local reporter approached me and asked me questions. He told me he was writing an article for the local newspaper, and he was kind enough to confirm the spelling of my last name and show me pictures of my finish. Questions asked: How long have you been running? Nine years. Are you a member of a running club? Bull City Track Club. What got you interested in running? It was a way to lose 40 lbs. How many races have you run in the recent past? Far too many. What kind of races do you most enjoy? Marathons and ultras.

He then gave me a quizzical look and asked, “If you don’t mind my asking, how old are you?” When I told him I was 46, he said, “Well, I have my leader for the story: How to Stay Fit in your Forties and Beyond.” Ha! I’m looking forward to reading.

I received a gift certificate from Omega Sports. An enjoyable way to spend a Saturday morning!

Two races in 2 days, and my body feels fine. I’m enjoying my new training plan!

I received a very nice gift certificate from Great Outdoor Provisions, a hat (yet another) from Insideout Sports, and some vegan energy bars. The best part of the race was spending time with my friend of over 20 years, Jill H. I hadn’t seen her in 2 years, i.e., since the last time I ran the race. Every time I see her it’s just like the conversation begins where it last ended. 

This is a fun race for a worthy cause. The best named race, too!