Gay Games 5K
Today was the 5k of Gay Games VII. It wasn't as hot as Monday, but just as sticky. I left the hydration belt at home today. I was ready to tackle a personal best. My old mark was set a few weeks ago at the Proud to Run - 35:48. So I had a time in mind to shoot for.
This race was a bit more competitive then the 10K, and sadly just as organized. Games organizers are taking a hit for the lack of organization at many of the events. There were volunteers, but it didn't appear that there was a plan.
This didn't dampen anyone's spirits about the race though. I chatted with a woman from Atlanta, and saw the guys from NY. All were excited about the race.
Once the gun went off, I moved....fast. This was basically the same route as the 10K. So I knew what to expect this time. At the 1 mile mark, I was at 11:10. Pretty good. I pushed on. The lesbian, who at the 10K commented on my hydration belt, and wondering where the chips and salsa were, passed me and asked about the gear. I told her all the chips were gone. I did compliment her on her tutu. :-)
At mile 2 I was at 22:40. Still a good time. I could tell I was getting hot though, my face was feeling beet red. I slowed down just a bit. I got it in my head that I needed something for the finish.
Finally I saw the finish line in the distance, and picked up speed. One of the guys from NY passed me right at the finish line. I stopped my watch, and saw .....35:18:51!!! A new PR! I found I was getting emotional about it, so after I got some juice and water, I sat under a tree, and collected my thoughts. I've worked so hard for this, and I did my best. You have no idea how satisfying that is for me. I get a bit teary eyed even writing about it.
So my portion of the Games are over. I have my lovely participation medal, and I am off to see other events.
Coming up....partying with the WestHo Water Polo Team on Friday. Woo Hoo!
Quote of the day: From my friend Buzz, describing the Gay Games, "It's a circuit party, and a track and field meet broke out."
:-)Charlie
posted by Javarunner1962 @ 7:59 AM
4 Comments:
Charlie,
I can't believe the day is here and done. How long have you used this day as your inspiration? How many times has it kept you putting one (sore) foot in front of the other?
And you got a PR!!! Sweetie, it's just the beginning of bigger and better things.
And, ah, partying with the WestHo water polo team??? Is that the, ah, bigger and better??? ;)
Where is WestHo? Who cares, it'll all be guys who look good wet. :)
My only regret is that I couldn't be there in person. But you had my heart.
Kelly
Now all we need are pictures of the singlet and running shorts....
WestHo is West Hollywood. :-)
Are for the pics, I'm afraid there were no cameras around at the time of the race. We'll just assume I looked good.
:-)Charlie
What, you can't put the singlet and shorts back on ever again??? Have you retired your number or something? ;)
Post a Comment
<< Home