The Third Annual Pat’s Run

Event Date: Saturday, May 3, 2008
I give much love to the founding members, families, friends, and volunteers that have taken one man’s tragedy and turn it into a positive community event here in San Jose. Going into its third year, Pat’s Run is the celebration legacy to Pat Tilman (
). Though I did not know Pat, I have embraced his achievements in football and the ultimate sacrifice for America. I first learned about this event at the Sunnyvale Sports Basement community board. Since I was in the middle of my conditioning, I decided to take on this challenge and add another event to my 2008 season.
The Run
Highly Recommend for First Timers: Yes. If granny can do it, so can your lazy ass.
Get into running! And one of the best ways to do just that is lacing up your new pair of running shoes at sunrise on a Saturday morning. For those that love to walk but don’t want to get their bodies beat up, Pat’s Run is very walker friendly that provides participants of all ages a leisure course. We had the neighboring streets and residential areas of Leland High School to ourselves on this 4.2 mile trek (mostly flat with two short inclines at 0.2 miles). Plenty of water stations along the way and markers to keep your determination levels up. Note: Skip the energy drinks along the way. It was hella nasty. The finish line takes you to Leland High’s football stadium. There we found the colorful blue and gold balloons and inflatable archway where we were congratulated by the San Jose State Spartans Football team. Thanks to my buddy Omar T for joining me again — one more run before his wedding.
Registration:
I registered on the Friday (the day before the event) at the Leland High Football stadium. There was limited parking next the stadium so I recommend getting there early. Walk up registration was easy to find and simple. They accept cash or check. Pick up your race bib, timing strip, cool race shirt, and race packet (filled with fitness goodies). Highlight: I was digging the race shirt because it’s made of the new mesh ventilation material — making it lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Parking on the day of the event:
Get there early and park along the neighborhoods on Via Valiente street. This is the best parking next to the event because you avoid the traffic into and out of the event. Omar and I left the house at 6:30am and arrived at the event at 7:00am. No hassles and stress free.
Finish Time: 42:22
Timing Chip: No. They used the new «Timing Strip» which makes it easier to install and take off your running shoe. Pretty cool device — saves plastic.
Great way to prepare for Bay to Breakers in SF: Yes
Number of Participants this Year: 6,000
Charity Event: Yes.
Running Highlight: The MPC Fire Academy. These guys ran in strict formation while chanting their company songs. Highly motivating to stay with this running pack.
After Race Highlight: Free 15 minute massages from Club One for all participants.
Will Participant Again Next Year: Yes.
Running Shoes for this event: NB’s 1011