Renovating Kaeti

This weekend I participated in Nancy’s Virtual Club Run, running my very first 10K (do I get extra points because it was my first?)! Here are my splits and some of the thoughts that accompanied them:

10:02 — Just warming up a bit. Still feeling creaky after the mile race on Thursday. Treating this 10K as my LSD run this week.*

9:42 — Finally hit a comfortable pace. Trying to avoid being lapped by that obnoxiously fast guy for the 18th time.

9:47 — Is it over yet? Wait, I have to run around the lake again? You’re kidding, right?

9:42 — Why do people keep staring at me? I wonder if my new running hat makes me look like a tool. Maybe it’s my cameltoe.

9:38 — It is surprising that I haven’t died yet.

9:09 — Did that guy just lap me again? At least I’m not wearing a do-rag and aviators. Almost done!

1:45 — 6.01, 6.02, 6.03. Why is this taking so long?! I command you to stop looking at Gary.** 6.12, 6.13, 6.14. Seriously, stop it. Oh, wait, is that 6.2? I’m DONE!!!

Total — 59:45

I’m so excited that I managed to squeak by in just under an hour. I was honestly expecting to run at a 11-minute-mile pace (especially after all the Mother’s-Day-justifies-everything junk food I ate). And over all, the distance didn’t feel so bad. The last mile was tough, but not excruciating.

Many thanks to Nancy for inspiring me to run my first 10K — and to all the other “virtual” runners who joined me. Now it’s back to work for me — deadlines are calling my name.

**Gary is the working name of my Garmin 305.

Sara and I got to the lake early, picked up our numbers and chips, and then went back to the car to stay warm.

Shortly before the race started, we warmed up a bit and stretched. Because we’re hardcore like that.

Note: This is not an example of an effective stretching program.

We started out of the gate strong and when we reached the hills we cursed our fate and gave up powered through with the strength of 10 American Gladiators.

We finished with a flourish, and then immediately broke down into tears of pain and nausea joy and celebration. It was a moment worthy of a Lifetime made-for-TV movie.

After cleaning ourselves up, we headed for the post-race food table. I think Pearson’s Salted Nut Roll sponsors every race in this city. But really, what’s not to love about post-race ‘nanners and nut rolls?

Big congratulations to Sara on finishing her first 5K! Also, many thanks to Stacey for taking photos and to everyone who came out to cheer us on. And thanks to the Minnesota Twins for giving me free baseball tickets.