Steamboat 2012, A Great Time!

The 2012 Steamboat Classic 4 mile event has come and gone. Danyelle and I both volunteered to be team leaders for the training program, Building Steam, this year. It was one of the best experiences I've ever had. I'm sad that it's over. However, I'm so proud of all of the runners who trained hard and accomplished their goal of participating in the Steamboat Classic.

The morning of the race, Fred and I had our coffee, got ready, and headed out the door. This was my second time running in this race, Fred's first. Last year, it was my first timed race and I was a jumble of nerves. This year, I was just excited to be meeting up with my friends and doing a race together. I knew only a few of the other runners last year, mostly from Building Steam. This year it felt like I knew everyone! I am so in love with the running community here. I ran into lots of new friends and a few old friends who I'm now seeing again all because of running. How cool is that!?!?

Danyelle, Heidi, Stephanie, Carrie, Bekah, Laura

We all met up for pictures and then lined up to start. Fred stayed with us for a while and then he sped up to his pace after the first mile. His knee felt great and was being cooperative.

Bekah and Fred

Danyelle, Heidi, Carrie, and I all stayed pretty close together throughout the whole race. It was really great to get to run with friends the whole time. Past races I've always been pretty much on my own due to pace differences. I was a little shocked that I was able to pace with them the whole time. I'm by far the shortest and usually the slowest. I've never cared much about being fast or getting faster but it's happened naturally anyway. Last year my time was 46 something. (Clearly, race times are a real priority to me. :) This year my chip time was 41:59.

It was really hot. The first water station in the race was farther than it was expected to be. Everyone was asking, "Where is the water?" Aside from that, it was a fantastic race. Well organized with lots of wonderful volunteers working hard to make it great for everyone.

Heidi was the first to cross the finish line. Carrie and I were next and actually had the same finish time. Danyelle came in right behind us. She was not feeling too good and had to stop to avoid tossing her cookies but she pushed through and finished anyway.

Fred was standing at the finish line when I crossed. Loved seeing him there. I knew it meant that his knee was good and he got a good time. I can't even begin to explain how much I love being able to share running with my hubby.

On the way to the water, a fellow runner spotted me and tossed me one of her extra bottles. I was so grateful! It was by far one of the hottest races I've ever ran. Water was all I cared about by the end.

We hung out and chatted with people after the race. Again, I love this running community!

Later on, one of my friends had a small get together at her house to celebrate the race and my birthday. Danyelle even made me a birthday cake. It was a great way to end the day and my first 35 years!

Peace, Love, Happiness!
~Bekah