Surviving the Race of the Humans

So I did it possums. Along with nearly 5,000 other competitors, I hit the pavement Sunday night for the Nike Human Race 10K. Whew, what a night. Let’s review, shall we?

As mentioned in a previous post, I signed up to run the Human Race a few months back during a boozy event with a gal pal of mine. What sold me (besides the open bar) was the international element of the race, given 25 other cities around the world would be participating on the same day. Cool! I’m also approaching the milestone that is the big 3-0 this year (gulp), so I felt a 10K or some sort of physical achievement was in order. I use the term ‘achievement’ loosely as I’m no Ironman, however it was an achievement pour moi.

The course itself was impressive, carrying competitors along Vancouver’s picturesque seawall during an otherwise perfect sunset. Although it was touching to have complete strangers cheer you on along the way, I’m confident I nearly plowed over a few grannies attempting to ‘high five’ me as I huffed and puffed past them. I was also lucky enough to have my extremely supportive BF cheering me on as I crossed the finish line. Good thing, as I may have collapsed without that last minute bit of encouragement.

Simon Whitfield, silver medalist of the triathlon event at the recent Beijing Summer Olympics, took part in the race coming in third overall. Um…could you imagine coming in first and beating an Olympian? That’s gotta’ be good for the old ego.

By the way possums, if you’re planning to run a 10K, do not attempt this without training. I am a runner, however I tend to laze away the summer days and abandon my exercise routine, only to be replaced by beaching and drinking…and beaching and drinking. Thus, stepping onto a treadmill once over the 10 weeks prior to the race does NOT constitute a proper training program. Boo.

I’m feelin’ the burn, as I’ve been waddling around since crossing the finish line, yet the pain is beginning to subside. My remedy you ask? Drinking and avoiding exercise ofcourse. Hmmm...What can I say; it’s a vicious cycle people.

Pain aside, I’m thrilled to have taken part. Vancouver ranked 4th overall for fastest city and Nike threw out all the stops – everything from the spanky dry-fit shirts included in your runner’s package, right down to the kick-ass after party complete with live performances by The Trews and Theory of a Deadman.

This cowgirl of urban proportions is certainly not in any hurry to run another race; however I could get back in the saddle again in ’09. Stay tuned…