D C M bray

D C M bray, that's how you pronounce the Spanish version of December. Although it felt like winter began yesterday, tomorrow officially marks the beginning.

Saturday morning agenda-5k

The classics by the sea offered both a 10k & a 5k. The latter was chosen due to recent circumstances & the fact that this is not the only event planned for the day. Since it was along a1a, it was extremely windy and cold. Plus, the course was not entirely flat or straight. Hoping for an easy run, I was disappointed. Having not completely recovered from illness, I struggled, barely breaking 20. Naturally, that wouldn't cut it for the master title, & sadly, not enough to win the age group. Luckily, I got runner up. The awards were plaques for all who placed.

Saturday afternoon agenda-5k

Although I heard not an inaugural, it was my first time running this one. Jon was a no show at the previous event but came and won this one over Andrew. Even though Drew didn't win, he got all the recognition, having just completed the half at the Barbados marathon a couple of weeks ago, with an interview from media. Meanwhile, I had my little battle. Although my time was better than earlier, it still was substandard, robbing me of a chance to win the master trophy; I was stuck with a generic, spinning medal. Granted, I was pleased to win my age group since I had some competition to deal with. Had I pulled that dismal time in this race, I would have been humiliated. The course was unforgiving, full of turns & many areas on small paths. For a small race, I was amazed they had 5 star post refreshment, especially for meat eaters.

Saturday evening agenda

The GFLRRC holiday pajama party was my last event of the day. It was the most enjoyable in that I did not have to race prior to the refreshments. I found out during the course of the event that it was the 10th anniversary of this special occasion; the Barnards were together for twice that. It drew so many runners I knew & was designed to honor many volunteers who help make their races possible.

Sunday agenda-train

The Jacksonville marathon (& half) occurred today. Well, #1, I'm not at my best & #2, without a plane ticket, I'd have to drive and that's a bit too far, plus so little time after all those activities yesterday. Instead, I went for a medium run (7.5 miles) that I call the tour de park since it went through the park where the Miami man half iron was held. Normally, I would have done a long ride but with a marathon coming up, I gotta put in some mileage.