Friday night quickly evolved from early evening's race-focused discussions to midnight with "one more drink." Just friends around the kitchen table not ready to call it a night exchanging friendly condescending banter. The event had been on the calendar for a bit and we all had goals in mind. Yet far from an elitist race, the St. Patty's Day event was a perfect transition into spring, gauging our work coming out of winter.
Saturday morning arrived with weather cooperating and warmer temps than expected. We met by the river and settled into pre-race routines with a mix of stretching and wise ass remarks at each others expence. After probably not enough preparation we make the call to head into town for the start line. The atmosphere was fun and filled with typical St. Patrick's Day festivities, aided by the parade that would bring up the rear of the race.
Photos: Pepper Canese
As the start line filled up and runners started to mingle you can feel the anticipation level rise as we near start time. The chatter of strategy (or lack there of)hung in the air as officials gathered at the line with announcements in hand. The PA buzzed with town officials making their obligatory thank you to all the sponsors. And then were off.
As per usual the pace started off pretty fast with one mate who stated " i'm gonna hang in the back " is now gone to front. The pack soon split into various groups littered with green tutus and funky socks. The cool morning was now punctuated by heavy breathing as runners fell into a pace most likely removed from their comfort zones. The fun has really begun with melodic calculations of possible outcomes and sizing up of nearby runners. The lake that was at the beginning of the race was now in view. The pack got nervous and the pace rose. Rounding the last turn the race clock loomed ahead. There was no time to do the math but it was close. As we passed under the banner to meet the rest of the crew everyone seemed happy with their efforts.
We retired back the waterfront to keep the day going. Well deserved (and much needed) beers were passed around while everyone recapped their data. Race days are way more fun with your friends.
