Veteran's Memorial 5K

I wanted to try to keep up my run training in Alaska, even if it is cold. But, I have been having a hard time staying motivated without my running buddies in Texas. So, I figured if there was a race, I would use that as motivation, but only if it wasn't too cold or too wet outside. Fair weather runner, indeed. The Army ROTC Seawolves from University of Alaska Anchorage were putting on their first annual Veteran's Day 5K. I ordered a new outfit from InkNBurn to be dressed appropriately for the occassion. Figured I would sign up the morning of the race. By the way, race starts in winter in Alaska are late in the morning, otherwise, too dark. I won't complain about a 9 AM start. I drove to UAA and signed up the morning of the race. The cadets were very excited and nice. Somehow, they look younger all the time. Picked up my swag and put it in my car. 

I had told a few people from work I would be running. WonderNurse came out to join me. Now I can't back out.

We waited inside until a few minutes before the start. With just a few minutes, we mosey'd to the start line. National anthem played, of course. And then we were off. WonderNurse left me in the dust within the first 10 feet. No surprise.

The route followed the Chester Creek Trail around Goose Lake. It's really quite beautiful. Despite being paved, and despite the very minimal snowfall so far in Anchorage this year, there were some snowy and ice covered patches. I didn't wear my YakTrax and I slowed down for the slick sections. That's the excuse I'm going to use for my time. It was an out and back trail and there were cadets along the route to cheer us us. Mini water bottles at the turn around. 

1.5 K. Brr, it's cold. Can't show off my new
Patriot shirt yet.

3.5 K. Warmed up. Showing off my Patriot shirt

With a few hundred yards to go, WonderNurse ran back to join me and run me to the finish. How fun to cross together. Still figuring out the breathing in the cold, but really just glad I got out there to run. Feeling pretty proud that I got out of my comfort zone. The cadets did a really great job and I hope the event grows next year.