My Mom - who came from France to visit us and wanted to attend this race - was unfortunately not able to because on the very next day of her arrival (on Father's Day) she fell in our garage's stairs and broke her ankle... Terrible summer vacation for all of us, but I am grateful I was still able to run this race that is very special to me.
Weather was perfect for running; foggy and cool (59.4 degrees F average), and I was thrilled to be able to meet with my Sparky Friends Tika and Lori.
As always before my races - and when it is possible - my little ones run the Kids Fun Run. They didn't get a medal this time but they were happy with a bag of goodies, a "Official Runner" Certificate and a T-shirt of the events.
The first part of the race was downhill and the finish line was at the top of a hill, which made the final sprint quite painful, but it was certainly not the right moment for whining or/and slowing down, was it? LOL
Photos by PRO-PIX - Race Photographer Randall M. Smith
Here, I just have passed the Finish Line, and I am separating the bottom of my bib (no chip time). Then, after a short cool down jog and walk on a side road, I am joined by my little "Fan Club".
My official time was 25:21 minutes (official avg pace 8:11 min/mile = 7.33 mph or 11.8 km/heure for my family in France and those who understand Metric system better). Not a new PR, but good enough for me to be awarded with my first medal ever, for finishing 3rd in my age group.
A beautiful and very special medal that I am pleased was my first ever!
After the race, a very well appreciated warm breakfast was served to all participants and their families, and the Memorial Ceremony to Cpt Scott Cash brought tears into eyes of many of us.
That was a great race and I certainly will run it again!