The "after" photo taken by Diane B, who also served as our chauffer this morning. Thanks, Diane!!
I almost talked myself out of doing this race because (a) I was extremely busy,(b) I hadn't exercised in almost a week and (c) I wasn't feeling well. But I'm glad I didn't listen to that voice. I only wish I'd found the camera in our neverending move because today's 4-miler from La Jolla to Pacific Beach was picture-perfect.
It's unusual for there to be clear skies along that stretch of coast that early. San Diegans are used to a thick marine layer until around 10 a.m. When it's lacking, it can only mean one thing: It's going to be a scorcher. And it was.
But spending a Sunday morning with 1,800 others on a slightly downhill course was a perfect escape from my current stressful life. The run starts in downtown La Jolla and essentially winds down La Jolla Blvd. through Bird Rock and into Pacific Beach, where it ends at Garnet and the Crystal Pier. It raises money for local fire departments - thus the photo opp above.
I went into this as a purely fun run. No stopwatch, no clue my finish time besides it averaging around 10 minute miles. We grabbed our technical shirts and some free beverages at the finish and then drove up Garnet to Broken Yolk, beating the crowds that formed just minutes after we arrived for breakfast.
I saw a lot of people I know from various running circles, including the SDTC. It was nice to reconnect. I've been away for some time now and my running times reflect the change of pace.
For anyone thinking of doing this one next year, I will note that we arrived before 7 a.m. for the 8 a.m. race and had no trouble finding parking close by. We even had time to go down to the cove and visit the seals at the Children's Pool -- and that's with two portapotty stops too. It honestly didn't seem like that many people were there until we got going.
All in all, it's a great race and a great tradition that I hope to continue in the coming years.
7 comments:
You guys look great...before and after! :)
You captured it perfectly! Terrific morning. And according to the posted results... a good run all the way around!
Sometimes I get that voice that says I am too tired and wouldn't it be easier to just sleep in.. But almost every time when I go I am happy I went.. Whether it be running or going out with friends. So I am glad you decided to go.
I love it when races are stress free and easy - like just showing up for a run with some friends. Looks like you had a great time. :)
I know which one is you in that picture, since I got to meet you in person :) yay!!! Glad you did the run, too....I always think those are the best races, the ones we go into thinking they are just for our enjoyment. LOVE it!!
btw, I think I may sign up for the Carlsbad Marathon....any interest??
It's good to occaisionally run without being a slave to your watch. You all look great!
Beautiful photos of a great running group.
Glad you can race without being slave of the watch ... I learned this lesson only few days ago and now I know that I can also enter a race for fun without pushing over my limits as I used to do.
The year I decide NOT to run the Fire Run and you're there! Ah well, there WILL be more races, right? I missed seeing everyone, but I really needed the rest. I like this 4 mile race, though. Even though it was warm, it looked like a beautiful morning. I hope to see you at the Fire Run next year because I won't be running AFC.
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