Start of the running season

This weekend is the unofficial start of the running season. Although running is really year round, it is deemed as such because, #1 it's very hot during late spring and all of summer so races become sporadic at best & #2 beginning now, there will be at least 2 events (1 sat & 1 sun) each weekend from this point to the end of year (excluding Christmas time) and continues into the next year until about mid June. Next month, the distance races begin; more on that in October.

Saturday agenda-publix series

Since George & I are in the du series, we did not attend any 5k today. The multisport season has not yet ended, so I will still be involved with them while competing in running races until November, the season end of that sport. Unlike running, there really is an off season. In my 18 year career, I've only done 1 in December. Multirace used to have them in January (only company to dare), but due to poor attendance (mostly due to cold weather), he wisely followed the lead of everyone else. I heard February is slated for elimination for the same reason. Although hot & humid, the wind was not much of a factor, allowing me to have a good bike time. There was an elite duathlon relay created just for them (no such category existed by ESM in the publix series) consisting of Elliot Mason & Rob Childers, owner of multirace. Naturally, they won & although uncontested, the result would have been the same. In terms of individual performance, in the 1st run, I was 3rd overall. I lost minimal positions on the bike, being passed mostly by triathletes and finished strong on the final run to earn 2nd overall in the entire event, top in my category. Next stop-the championship!

Sunday agenda-5k

I would have gone to the safety 5k in Aventura because it is closer to my home & I'd have a better chance at winning, but I can't because this is a club race (Runner's Depot); my loyalty is intact. This race is the unofficial start of the running season despite the other 5k and is an RRCA championship race. The odds of me placing are slim but I must show allegiance to the team & will do my best to represent.

I woke up with my right heel injured but you know the code of the Bell. Naturally, I had to rely on the Lord to get through the race and pray that I do well enough to get on the podium. You know the gospel song, 'he might not come when you need him (not immediately upon request) but he'll be there right on time'; it came to pass. I got my cake (top in age group) & eat it too (under 19); thank you, Lord.

Oh, by the way, this event gave out rare trophies, while the other were common medals. Glad God led me the right way.

Honorable mention

* Luis M wins age group
* top 2 overall were Mike K & Jon W (Runner's Depot teammates)
* master winner was Mike T (Runner's Depot teammate)
* George won his age group at the other race