Big Steps 5k

Today was the Knox County YMCA's Big Steps 5k.  Over 100 people signed up for either the 5k or 1 mile fun run.  Funds from the race were used to support Youth Development at the YMCA.  Most people that I know asked if I was running this race.  And, of course, there was a big shock when I said no, but that I would be there supporting the race as a volunteer.

I find it a little amusing that people think that I run EVERY SINGLE race that is out there.  Ok, granted my blog name & one of my hashtags is SHERUNSEVERYWHERE.  But really, people I don't run every race that is out there.  In fact, there are so many races that I don't do.  If money and other personal reasons were not a factor I would probably race a lot more than I currently do.  Oh yeah, there are races left and right that I would love to do, but I don't.

For this particular race I did not run because I had a hand in planning the race itself.  We had many of us from the Knox County YMCA who came together as a team to plan this inaugural 5k.  I had a large role in planning & laying out the race route.  I also picked out the finishers awards.  That doesn't mean that I can't pay the money and run the race, but I don't think it's fair.  Plus, I know what it's like to be at a race where the same person typically wins.  Where I live when I show up to a race people jokingly groan and say "oh great......we already know who won".  Which is not always true....I don't always win, but I'm a top contender.  So personally I think it's nice to step back & let others have their success at races.  It's not always about me and I don't have to win at everything (although I am really competitive).

So I didn't run.  I volunteered.  It's nice to be on the other side of the fence and watch the race happen.  Admittedly I got that feeling.....that itch to want to be out there racing and quite possibly winning.  But I was also so tired and sore from my Rival Game Relay (don't worry race recap will be written) that I knew it wasn't a good idea to be out there running.  No matter what I tell myself when it comes to a race I go all out.  Someone suggested I sign up, but just jog it or take it easy.  I'm sorry, I can't do that.  It's not possible.  If I'm out for a daily run, no problem.  But when I hear that gun go off and BAM!  I'm in race mode (told you I was competitive!!).

It was fun and an absolute joy to watch and cheer the other runners on.  Some met their goal, some set personal records, some didn't, but they finished and that in my book is such an accomplishment.

Kelly, one of my co-workers joked about my finish line pictures.  She says I always have the best ones and that they are always fun.  So even though I didn't run I hopped in to the finishers chute and showed them how I have fun when I finish my races.

I'm looking forward to future years of the Big Steps 5k.  It was a great race, with a lot of great people participating.  I foresee this race becoming popular and growing in size.  I can't wait to be a part of it in future years.