Love ‘em or Leave ‘em Valentine’s Day Dash 5k

Apparently, I’m a masochist. For 2009, I’ve resolved to become a healthier more active version of my 2008 self thus prodding me to sign up for the Love ‘em or Leave ‘em Valentine’s Day Dash 5k. Lord knows, I’m no runner, so these 5ks can’t be brushed off as a cake walk.
After a late night out, I found myself cursing both my gumption and alarm clock. Why, oh why, did I sign myself up for an early morning run? After running through every possible excuse I could think of and not buying any of them, I forced myself out of bed and into my running shoes, sweats and the race’s long sleeved t-​shirt. And my teammate and I were off to the starting line.
Upon arrival at Green Lake, there were cupids and hearts stretching off the side of the path, couples and individuals browsing the free handouts and a man announcing directions for the starting line over the loud speakers. After grabbing my free cupcake (I needed breakfast, what?) the boyfriend and I walked toward the starting line which was on the street near the pitch and putt. In an attempt to remain organized (and prevent tramplings), the starting line was divided depending on how quickly you planned to run your miles.
Once the 1500+ people startled shuffling in a common direction, I knew the race was on. The beginning of the race was full of shuffling and dodging, but after the first ½ mile things began to thin out and since the race was able to spread out into the street (closed lanes) the crowding was less bothersome. Volunteers were spread out around the lake to half heartedly clap and markers were posted at every mile.
For a $ 25 registration fee, I was rewarded with a new tshirt, burnt calories and a sense of accomplishment and renewed endurance. Sure, it’s only a 5k, but as I told myself while I huffed and puffed my way around the lake, it’s one step at a time.
Oh, and if you sign up for a large, organized run, please leave the canines at home. I signed up for a run. not hurdles.

I am a fan of the 5k race. Its short, it doesn’t take a long time to train for it, and your energy isn’t depleted once the run is over. I was an avid 5k race runner but then I had a freak bicycle accident in October and per doctor’s orders couldn’t run. Bummer. I finally got the doctor’s okay and started running again and the Love ‘Em or Leave ‘Em 5k was my first race back into the world of short shorts, spandex, and Asics.
This is the second year I’ve done this run. Its around Greenlake meaning its flat as a pancake, meaning its fantastic for those folks who have just started to run. With every race you have your serious runners who come out in nipple hardening weather in short shorts and short sleeved tops, people running with strollers (don’t get me started on them!), middle of the pack runners (like me!), and those who have never run a day in their life but think it’ll be fun to dress up in a costume and try to not pass out before 3.1 miles. I like the size of the crowd on this run. There is enough people to feel as if you are a part of something yet not massive enough that you can’t hit a pace if you want.
I had a late night the night before and a slight hangover at the hands of only two drinks I have to embarrassingly admit. I was contemplating sleep but I had to get myself out of bed because this was my first 5k back into running. I reluctantly got out of bed and out the door.
I get there about 20 minutes before race time and to my surprise found a decent parking spot. As I was walking to the start line I was getting infuriated as I saw cars in the parking lot parked haphazardly in between two spots. These mother fucking runners don’t know how to park! I had to calm myself down. Just breathe.
I get to the starting point and look for my friend. We decided to run as a team again under the same name as we had before. We were the «Formula One Jazz Nutjobs». Sweet, huh? She looked as excited to be there as I did. We stood around trying to warm up as we waited for the race to start. We perked up a bit as we noticed the Wink cupcake stand but why eat right before a race? Even though it was a mini-​cupcake I’m not trying to spew in the middle of my run.
Finally the countdown begins and we make our way into line. Off we go! I pace with my friend because I wanted to take an easy run. It was a bit congested the first few feet but thinned out. After a few minutes of feeling like I was going too slow I broke away from my friend. Round the ring I go keeping a good pace. As the finish line was in my eye sight, I get a side stitch. Ouch! Don’t stop! Go for the glory! Go for one more! Go for it! Connect Four! Oh, forgive me I lost myself there. Despite the pain I pressed on and it felt great to get past that finish line.
My official time was 25:07. Not too shabby, I think, for my first 5k back from recovery. Slower that what I used to do but, hey, I’ll make by way back to my average time soon enough. This race is for anyone since its flat and fast and not annoyingly packed.