Jesse Brown’s has been presenting the Trail Run Challenge at the US National Whitewater Center for the past 3 years. Last year I ran the 5K with some success (I finished second in my age group); so this year I figured I’d bump it up and run the 10K.
This way I’d be able to comment on the layout of the race; I’d know the differences in each course; & I’d be able to blog about it.
Well, my success wasn’t the same as last year. At least, as far as rewards go. I lined up in the 8 1/2 minute mile category at the beginning. Then I ran two 8 1/2 minute miles on the course. It was the next 4 miles that slowed my time.
As people passed, I’d say, “be there in a minute”, or “am I still running or is this pace walking?” & my most often used phrase, “I’m right behind you.”
Nonetheless, several folks passed me but that didn’t really matter. It was a great race with a bunch of good folks and a worthy cause (benefits go to the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society & Team in Training).
The course at the Center was a bit muddy and wet due to storms the night before. But that just made me watch my step a little more carefully. No slipping occurred.
I worked the JB booth at the race before the races and wanted to return to the booth to help Fitz Ellerbe smile, handout coupons & promote the stores. Ironically we were placed between two Handicap Parking signs.
I finished the race and back to work. It was super fun.
Hopefully we’ll see you at another Jesse Brown event or at least maybe you can run in the 2013 Trail Run Challenge presented by Jesse Brown’s Outdoors.
written by: Bill Bartee
owner, Jesse Brown’s Outdoors
co-host, Carolina Outdoors, WBT Radio
part-time runner, tripper, stumbler, www.trailrunchallenge.com
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