Hurricane season

Hurricane season began officially this past Wednesday, so this weekend is the first since that. Already disaster has struck but not due to a hurricane; the Heat lost for the first time in the playoffs at home! A game they should've won considering they were in the lead by 15 with 5+ minutes remaining.

Saturday agenda-race!

Based on the races I considered, the choice was simple:

1. new york spartan sprint (adventure)
2. 13.1 Chicago
3.7k for amputees in Haiti

I chose the latter & raced within my county. I came in as defending champion but knew I would lose this title to someone; question was, who? I thought Walthon would but some young guy did, costing me the sole master title, even though I was 3rd overall! Not happy with my time but happy I withstood attack from 2 other master legends, Keith and Fred, plus any other runner, whether I knew them or not. I love the race director but organization was not so good (admittedly) due to the number of activities planned. Except for overall, the medals were not available on site (to be mailed) but I am pleased that the recognition was, as the normal ceremony (less awards) was there & pictures were taken. I applaud them however for their efforts because it takes guts to try to improve. It was family oriented & offered a festival, free to participants.

Sunday agenda-race

Based on races I considered, the choice was also simple:

a. new york spartan sprint (adventure)
b. RNR San Diego marathon & 1/2
c. twilight 5k

Remain local! I planned on c., eliminating the rest but believe it or not, I was convinced by the master of ceremonies, Berta, to pass on this for a get together with friends I have known within my running 'career'. You know she is good if she can get the runner who has & could win again at c., Ronnie Hollassie. On top of that, the legendary Fred Franklin. Everybody knows there is a better chance of the Panthers getting to the playoffs than convincing me to skip a race but her timing was right. In addition, another legend Louis Best was there. I was happy to see Jose & Selma after so many years, plus Dee with Ronnie's child. We got to watch the heat take control of the series so it was a great day despite not racing.

Of course, I did train! Since I hadn't rolled in a while, I pulled out my inlines & did 12 miles in the morning, battling the wind. Lucky for me, I was only a minute off my time.