The FIRST year for this race.

I had taught with Carlo for over 20 years. We were exactly the same age. The date of this race coincided with his 72nd birthday.

He was an amazing coach and person.  He died suddenly last year and way too soon.

Unfortunately, being humble person, I knew little about Carlo’s running successes until after he died. (He won many races including the Philly marathon).

How could I not sign up??

Big negatives:

• I had already registered for a 5k race that was to be held that afternoon.
• I had no idea that it was to be run on the (hilly) cross country course.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Not much preparation for this 5k…

I ran a long last weekend (7 mi) and a half marathon the weekend before.

I did get in a few short runs during the work week

Here is the description of the race from the website:

The Memorial 5K … is more than just about running—it’s a chance to honor all that he meant to the AHN community and to carry forward the values he lived every day: commitment, kindness, perseverance, and heart.

All proceeds and donations from this event will support initiatives that reflect Coach Cherubino’s values and continue his legacy at Holy Names.

Race Day:

I had my standard breakfast of oatmeal and coffee. I guess I’m a creature of habit.

Since this was the first time that this race was offered, I was not familiar with the course.

There was no elevation chart and the person who was organizing the race no longer worked there.  We didn’t get the course map (below) until 2 days before the race.

When I heard that it would be a cross country race, I considered us my entry fee as a donation and skipping the race.

It didn’t start (according to the schedule) until 10 am and it was nearby.

After much deliberation, around 9:30 am, I decided to go and see who was there, interact with the alumni, etc. and then decide whether to cheer or run or maybe walk.

I was planning on 6 miles to train for the 15k race in 2 weeks, anyway.

I arrived at 9:45 am – in plenty of time. I got my bib (I hadn’t paid extra for the shirt) and bumped into many of my former students and co-workers.

Such a varied crowd.  Current students, parents, alumni and even some of Carlo’s running friends.

Unfortunately the crowd was not as big as it could have been.  They didn’t advertise it well and there were many competing events scheduled. (As expected with an inaugural event and one not organized by a runner.)

My good friend Molly (and current PE teacher) showed up to support me.

When I spotted some older folks…

I decided to give it a shot. Maybe even walk it.

Well, the race was supposed to start at 10:00 am. It did not.

There was an opening ceremony (with a very poor sound system)…

There’s not much to tell with only 1.6 miles done twice but here’s what I remember…

Can it be called a “race” recap if I didn’t race? And it wasn’t even timed (unless you finished in the top 3).

Eventually, we approached the start (a line in the grass).

I had planned to maybe walk and since there was no clock, I never bothered to start my Garmin.

But I got caught up in the excitement and started running.

It had rained the night before so we were often running on high wet grass (I did wear my trail shoes).

Up and down…

Up and down…

All along the course were signs with Carlo’s picture on them and things he used to say to the track team. (sigh)

There were also students were cheering the runners and they were very loud at every big hill.

Part of the course went through the woods.  Muddy and often slippery.

I am proud to say that I ran most of it… chatting with an older guy from time to time.

I did walk if there was a big hill… especially the one killer hill that I was not sure that I’d make it as it was so steep and muddy.

But I did.

And you had to repeat the course!!!!!!!!!!

No surprises the 2nd time around.

And I did finish! I didn’t fall and I was far from last (as some did walk it).

Post Race Activities:

As you crossed the finish line (and it was a line in the grass), they asked your name and bib number.

No results that I know of.

There was lots of goodies to munch on after.

They gave out free tee shirts with Carloisms (or Bino as they called him) on the back.

Molly and I stayed for the closing ceremonies.

They gave out medals for the top 3 men and top 3 women finishers.

I was very happy to see that the winning men were Carlo’s friends (so all still speedy and in their 70’s).

And one of female winners was one of my former French students (class of ’86).

Afterward, Molly and I went out for brunch.  I had to carb load for my next 5k (that afternoon), right?

Additional Race Reflections:

Of course, I’m glad I did this race.

My first every cross country race.

I wish that I had started my Garmin.  I wonder what my time was???? (It still counted?)

I’m sure if they continue to offer this race, there will be more runners and it will be better organized.

I might even do it again.

Positives:

• Nearby
• Great Cause
• Lots of familiar faces.
• Good post race refreshments
• Well marked course.

Negatives:

• Late start (10 am)
• Lack of info at sign up
• Hilly trail course
• Too loops.
• No Timing.
• Not well advertised.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes, if you knew Carlo. He taught here for over 40 years.  This was a great way to remember him.  He would be very happy.

Final Stats:

 

 

 

 

 

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Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Jenny (RunnersFly) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

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and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs