Run Forrest Run ...

So I branched out this past weekend. I participated in the annual Gasparilla Distance Classic, running in the 5K. So you have a clear view of just how prepared I was, the last time I ran was approximately 11 months ago. I mean, I take the stairs at work and walk the neighborhood about once or twice a month, but other than that I do my yoga and pilates - and that is if I get time to do that!



I got a call from my dear friend, Melissa, last Wednesday asking me to run the 5K with her. Since I am up for any challenge (well, most any) I said yes. I went out that night and, with the assistance of my father who used to run, I bought some new trainers. I did a fast on Friday to shed some water weight and stuffed myself with pasta that night to store some energy I would need the following morning.



I headed over to South Tampa early Saturday morning to meet up with Mel and her parents. We had a quick breakfast at Daily Eats (a must if you live in South Tampa). I had 2 egg whites scrambled with sliced tomatoes and water while the other three had fresh fruit with oatmeal. We headed down to Bayshore to get in line for the race to begin. The race started off rather smoothly. I had a good pace, although I was getting passed left and right - even by the little old man with two feet in the grave and braces on both of his knees. I had my iPod going and was 'in the zone'. I got about 3/4 of a mile and I had to slow my pace. My heart felt like it was going to burst right through my chest. I did my jog/walk for about 1/4 mile then got back in my run mode. At this point I was on Bayshore with a clear view of the water. The sun was shining and it was a brisk 69 degrees. Perfect day for a run. I made it about another mile before I had to slow down again - this time because my ankle was telling me that it couldn't take much more (I had failed to get a cortisone shot the day before). I walked for about 100 yards and pushed myself to finish the last of the race, at least by jogging. To pass the time I did my random fist pumps and drooled over cute boys without their shirts on with their pectorals glistening from the sweat. Hey, can you blame me? I reached what I thought was the finish line, but turns out it was a ploy. They were just taking pictures. I thought I was going to die. I continued on my way and at last I finally saw the Publix banner marking the finish line. I was about 50 yards out when I felt my body react to the realization that it was almost quitting time. It did all I could to keep from passing out - besides I couldn't slow down in front of all those thousands of people. Me embarass myself? I think not. I crossed the finish line at 38 minutes, 55 seconds. Not only did I impress myself, but all my friends and family that threatened to disown me should I finish last - behind the mothers (and fathers) with strollers.

I was 452nd in my division (age group) and I came in just over 5,000 overall in a group of over 12,000 registered runners - although just under 9,000 actually finished the race. I made a goal for myself and I accomplished it and in the meantime managed to exceed my expectations. I had so much adrenaline running through my body by the conclusion of the race that I couldn't sit still for the rest of the day. I was ready to run again, but instead played motor mouth to Mel and her family. We headed up to the Convention Center (after we found each other. We failed to make a plan to have a meeting point following the race) and perused the different booths they had set up inside. I walked away with a lot of schwag and the motivation to enter more races in the coming months.

It's such a positive feeling walking away knowing you did something worthwhile that can also lead to more challenges down the road.

My name is Tiffany J and I am (now) a runner. Woo hoo!

Muddy Buddy here I come ...