Cathy's Santa Shuffle

Well Jane, I can't possibly beat the ZMan story. They had a fantastic day. Congratulations to both.

Both the weather was great and the sun was shining thank goodness because the wind was strong. We started the race from the Army Navy Air Force Club on Gore Road just after the children's 1 k race which was an inspiration and everyone singing Jingle Bells (lead by Tamara from the Running Room in her santa brades) while we waited for them to come in. Lots of cheers from the crowd for the little ones. I can't imagine what they must have thought....

The race was a 2.5 k out and back with a couple of inclines at the start before the first k mark. No cars to worry about because it was a dead end with only some houses on it. At the top of the first hill I looked ahead of me and there was a ribbon of red flowing along the road. Was a cool site. Everyone in red coats, shirts, santa hats, sparkly headbands etc. etc. The rest of the course was relatively flat and country like. Was just like running my roads at home. I again started the first k with a time of 5:20. I do this every time anymore. But this time I decided that I wouldn't worry about the time I would just concentrate on my pace and not look at the clock. Which I did.

The wind was quite strong when we left. I felt like I was being pushed across the road for a bit but as we progressed further up the stretch we seem to become more sheltered and it actually got hot. After 1.5k the gloves and the earmuffs were off and the coat was open. I was wishing that I had taken off my wind pants. It was such fun seeing everyone running in their santa hats, singing carols and one group was even attached to each other with garland, maybe 6 or so all running together. That is quite an achievement.

The race itself was uneventful. I felt good, seemed to have a strong pace and fought with myself to not look at the clock. Was a good day for a run. You were greated by Santa at the finish with a candy cane. Now how cool is that. Finishline refreshments were water and ham and I believe veggie subs, oranges, apples and Cadbury Elf chocolate bars. And inside the club the fireplace was burning. Nice and cozy warm. There was so much excitement when we were all back. Chatter everywhere. I think that it was a good time for all. Would certainly do it again. Next time with an elf hat or something or at least bells, now that woud have been cool listening to jingle bells as I run.

My Time Jane: 27:37 by my watch.

P.S. No sign of Jo Jo for the shirts.