2013 runningchunk.com 5K: holy crap you guys

Today's race was epic. First, the results:

The field of "athletes":

The weather was perfect for a change. This was good because between people getting lost on the way (I realize I said "park" instead of "campground"), and maybe one or two people having more or less just rolled out of bed, it was relatively pleasant standing in the parking lot. Once everybody showed up, we gathered around while I described the course using phrases like "it sort of goes," "you kind of turn," and "giant ravine."

At precisely 11:37, we took off up the hill. Deidre, Amy, Nancy, and Andi formed a nearly-impenetrable lead pack until Dave flipped the hidden battery assist switch on the stroller his son was riding in. I stayed back, checking once or twice for lost people behind me. At the first mile mark, I finally dropped G after making him laugh, but didn't keep my place for long, as Kristin motored by with a look of determination on her face.

Coming around the big loop, the final climb inspired whining from runners and amused looks from disc golfers. The ravine section was reported to be no problem, though the campground loop was universally demoralizing. At least there were no lawnchair hecklers. Ann and Duncan made up 100% of the official event spectators, and directed runners toward the finish line.

The finish included some great feats, including a seriously impressive effort by Kelly (carrying a 15-pound rucksack), a last-minute breakaway by Colin, and Martin wearing all the clothing he started with. Not to mention Steve and Rob carrying an extra 30 pounds each, Heather making a solid finish even after revealing her mystery identity, and Cayce figuring out this running thing well in advance of the end. I'm sure all of the runners who finished before me were equally amazing, so cheers to all you fast people too.

With everyone at the finish, we posed for the classy photo above and headed in to the American Legion for delicious Old Style (call me about sponsorship, Heileman's). After the awards ceremony in which Nancy and I disposed of all the race freebies we had socked away, we continued with more drinking and bullshitting. Also there was this:

Amy tagged some photos on Instagram, including these:

So this was fun. You guys were great, and you'd all better come back next year.