Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis - Run5k

This was probably a bit dangerous, since we were mostly running on packed snow, slush, and some ice. Lost footing a couple of times.

Started out fast, in fifth place at about the first 1/2 mile mark. That didn't last long, but I was glad to be ahead of the Santa Dogs and Elf Children.

I'm guessing on this, but I think it worked out as follows:

First mile -- about 6:45
Second mile -- about 7:15
Third mile -- about 7:30

So, I'm a lot slower than last year, but that's cool.

I didn't have much more than this, today. It was a pretty good race for me, and if I'm going to go faster then I'm going to have to train faster.

Cooling down is really easy in 17 degree weather. Just stop running, and you're immediately set!

Met some REALLY nice (and fast) folks from Fast Forward after the race -- Brian, Mary, & Gary. Looking forward to seeing them again at these little races.


I'm pretty old to be doing this, so I need to invent a time machine. I also need to do more speed work -- like any speed work. I'm great going for hours, but it beats me up to go for just 25 minutes.


This was a wonderful little event. I was really pleased to see so many participants (probably a couple hundred) in such freezing cold weather. It's really great to run for a cause (in this case, Arthritis), and I made a decent donation, which wss better than just paying for a race registration.

It's just a joy to be a part of a little community activity like this, and makes me glad to be alive and ticking. Really pleased to finish this little race without being injured.

I may need to get some counseling for whatever competitive impulse makes it possible for me to kick a dog with phony antlers strapped to its head if it gets in my way (didn't happen, fortunately, but it's possible)....