Commitment Day 5K

We signed up for the Commitment Day 5K.  At the time it seemed like a good idea.  For many races this is the case - when I sign up it seems like a good idea but when race day comes I question my sanity.  This morning it was -8 when we woke up.  It was -4 with a wind chill of -17 when the race started.  I have never run outside when it is that cold.  Jim and I discussed if we should go.  It was a very short discussion.  How do we want to start out our new year?

Here is what I wore:  Fuzzy running tights with another layer over it.  I had a third layer of wind pants but decided not to wear them.  I was glad I didn't.  On top I had a wool blend base layer with another wool long sleeve top over it.  Then I had my St. George jacket on top.  I had on a hat that covers my face and neck with only my eyes looking out.  I wore my warmest wool socks.  Then I had a pair of Smartwool gloves with a pair of mittens over them.  I was really warm and comfortable.  I unzipped my coat when I had the wind to my back.

I did my Myrtle leg swings inside then jogged around the parking lot before the race.  I took the race at a comfortable pace.  I did not want to over work my muscles in the cold.  I felt good.  I came in first in my age group.  I won a one month family membership to Lifetime Fitness.  It may be handy for some cross training.

They had been expecting 500 people for the race but less than 100 showed up and ran.  Jim said only the hard core runners would show up.  I asked him if that means he is hard core.  He said no, he just shows up to be with me. 

January first - my coldest race ever.  I had fun.

I was very proud of Jim.  He showed up and ran well.  He is still recovering and building strength.  He ran the entire race with no walk breaks.  He is a stud.