two races

I've been so lazy about posting. The past few weeks have been such a whirlwind of activity.

On May 29th, I ran the Soldier Field 10 miler for the 6th time. This race is very special to me. Aside from the patriotic holiday it celebrates and the reminder that brings of my beloved grandfather, the course is outstanding and the race is very well organized. This year my friend Vince and his wife Becky were in town for it, so that was an added bonus.

For some reason, I tend to run very well during this race. Maybe it's the big finish on the 50 yard line (which, incidentally, I've never remembered to watch on the big screen). Despite the warm and humid conditions, I was able to keep a steady pace, something that isn't always easy for me. In fact, towards the end of the race, I knew that I had "time in the bank," which is a very comfortable feeling, believe me. For the last mile or so, my iPhone was running out of juice, so I turned it off and listened to the soundtrack in my head. For some reason, I kept thinking of Prince songs ("When Doves Cry" and "Purple Rain" in particular).

I also thought about my grandfather, WWII vet, who I miss immensely. He never knew me as a runner, but I know he'd be proud. I thought about the folks waiting for me at the finish line. In addition to John and my out of town runner friends, Teresa was there. Teresa's my constant race companion, an extremely gifted runner and has been very generous to me with encouragement and support. Also, Susie made the long trek from the suburbs just to watch us. Sue has undergone some serious health issues lately, but her spirit is as bright as ever. She's the reason I finished the Chicago Marathon in 2006 and she means the world to me; having her there was everything. She was the first of the group I saw in the stands as I was finishing the race.

I ran it in 1:42:49, which is 4:40 faster than last year (my previous personal best) and good enough to be in the top half of my age/gender group. Pure happiness.

The following Saturday was Girls on the Run 5K at Montrose Harbor. This race is all about celebrating girl power and the importance of friendship and mentoring. How fitting that once again Teresa was by my side. We had the honor of accompanying her daughter Alexis on the journey. Since it was the race debut of my new Vibram fivefingers barefoot running shoes, it was a blessing that Alexis wanted to keep a leisurely pace. Nothing mattered in this race but togetherness and joy and we had that in spades. Not even the rain could keep us down.

This past week marked the beginning of my official training for the Chicago Marathon. 10-10-10 will be here before I know it.