March madness

March madness is near in NCAA basketball but begins for me now!

Saturday agenda-race!

These are on my radar:

1. gasparilla distance classic (day 1)
2. run for the health of it 5k
3. march for hunger 5k
4. run for compassion 5k

Normally, I would've taken #1 because of the many challenges. day 1= 15k followed by 5k, day 2=half then 8k (previously, i did a full, the ultimate challenge); not this year. Instead, I chose to do a double header, ruling ot #2. I need a tune up run but got 2 and both were supporting good causes.

race 1: march for hunger 5k

This began 7:30 & was held at the Hollywood broadwalk. Wind conditions were horrific on the turn around, therefore I failed to break 20. I was blessed to make the top ten & win age group; I found out after the fact since I had to leave immediately to get to the next event.

race 2:  run for compassion 5k

This began after 9 in a state park but was held on the beach. That's right, I had to run on the sand, mostly soft. This was a total surprise & was the last thing I wanted to deal with. It started going south (opposite of the previous race) against the wind. Once I hit harder surface & with the wind, I advanced from like 20th to finish 3rd overall. Unfortunately, no such title was given so I had to settle for yet another age group win.

Sunday agenda-race!

This is my selection for this day:

a. gasparilla distance classic (day 2)
b. rnr new Orleans
c. hooters to hooters half
d. autism speaks 5k
e. family fitness 5k
f. 13.1 Miami beach

Rule out any out of state (b.). If I pass on day 1, I usually pass on day 2; a. is out. My dad & I got cheated out at c., so no long distance loss anytime soon again. I want to got for the big 3 again so the remaining 5ks are out, leaving the last event.

I knew I'd struggle with f. but didn't realize to what extent until the dust cleared. It was extremely hot, humid & windy, all of which I despise. On top of that, it was the most challenging course, with 5 bridges! I posted my worst time of the year here but got the distinction I sought upon completion. Oh, by the way, my dad did too; congrats, pops!