may 1st, i ran the TC10km race with thousands of other people. i didn't really have any expectations for this race as i'm not really a 'speedy' type person. i figured i would just jog the route and if i could make it through in 01:10:00 or so, then i would be pleased, especially since the crowd was so big.
this year the race route was changed to a loop course, which allowed for more running space on the road and more spectator viewing points. the route was beautiful and showcased some of victoria's spectacular waterfront. the tc10km is one of victoria's largest events and it seems the entire city comes out to run and support its runners. it is truly a wonderful event to be a part of and i would highly encourage anyone to attempt it...with the appropriate training backing them up of course!
my race strategy changed when i began running with a colleague and she took off faster than i was accustomed to. i realized i had a challenge and an opportunity and i began to chase her...for the next two km! we weaved in and out of the crowd, her in the lead and me on her heels, until i lost her among the other racers. i continued alone in the sea of people, but never really feeling alone, thanks to the spectators on the side of the road cheering for all the runners. this made me really think about the value of spectators in any sport or event. in most cases, they are just as important as the participants! the spectators participate in their own way, and on a 10km race, i was sure thrilled to have them cheering me on! my favorite moment in the race would have to be when a spectator on the side of the road pointed directly at me and leaned towards his friend saying "now she looks too happy!". i must have been running along with a big smile on my face or something! his comment made me laugh. it wasn't all fun though. i did push myself to run a little faster than i was anticipating and i finished with a time of 00:57:13, which i was very proud of!
i'm already looking forward to next year and maybe even trying to go a little faster :)
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