First race of the season - Completed!

Seacoast Science Center (located in Rye, NH's Odiorne Point) hosted its 2nd annual Whale of a 5k today. This particular 5k happens to be primarily trail running - up and over the old Fort Dearborn bunkers, in the BEACH SAND, by the shore and on through wooded areas.

Runners could not have asked for a better day. The nearness to the shoreline allowed the 400+ runners to enjoy a gentle on-shore breeze, just enough to blow away all the nasty black flies which have been making outdoor activities tedious lately. The route, since the bulk of the running was done in the woods, had beautiful shade. The air temp boasted a 62 degree mark, perfect for those of us who normally seem colder than the general population.

SwimGirl ROCKED the race, not only beating her time for the race last year, but also making a personal best time of 24:36. Unfortunately, as this was not a "chip"'d race, the timer was unable to handle 4 runners entering at the same time (UGH) and clocked her for 24:40 tying her old P.B. We know she beat her old time. The fact she gained a P.B. on a trail race I find seriously impressive.

I did OK, beating last year's time by over a minute. The knee is holding up pretty well, no swelling yet. I had a brainstorm yesterday and called for a massage, which I hope helped to make the circ system kick into gear to keep fluid outta the old joint. I do need to work on my IT bands - tired, tired.

I think SwimGirl really only participates in races for the "playdate" atmosphere, as one of her older swim buds runs most local races, too. Other enticements? Prizes and raffles - she LOVES raffles. She really wanted to win the massage and was truly bummed when an adult won "her" prize. Very cute.

DaddyMan was able to meet us at Odiorne at the conclusion of the race, since he finished his 58 mile bike this morning. He decided to make a trial ride on next week's route, so he could ensure finishing the fundraiser. Make sure to take a look on the American Lung Association's Cycle the Seacoast site for donation information - support healthy lungs AND a rider!