Race Day

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Saturday, September 26, 2026 is the day I knew I wanted to write a blog on my new LLC website, even though it didn't exist yet. Today was the day I was going to reunite with my years-long "running partner" Pat at a local 5k. I say "running partner" in quotes because I never was much of a runner. I aspired to run, trained, hired coaches, made various efforts, but truthfully I never really did become a true runner. Now Pat on the other hand, was already running an average of 3 miles a day when we met. We first met on the first day of when the Jackson Run Walk (JRW) group got started. April 2015 I believe it was. Pat is 25 years older than me, and I still have not caught up with her regarding fitness, energy or contagious joy, even after all these years. She is a treasure. And it is was, race day once again. Thankfully she agreed to do the 5k Walk with me.

Getting up early on a Saturday morning for a race had not been part of my routine in years. Driving to the park, I couldn't even find the event at first, going to the wrong parking lot, and no one there knowing what I was talking about or looking for. But then, a faint memory came to mind of a race from years past that was held elsewhere, and off to that parking lot I went. Yes, this here was the right location, with the right people, other athletes or everyday folks getting ready to be physically active in a local park early on a Saturday morning, race day.

Going up to Registration, I immediately spot a friend volunteering and feel right at home. This is part of me, this athletic part of me. It's part of my best self, my true self. The happiness is spreading, and now all of this seems like a really good idea, taking time off from work, walking outdoors all Summer, and reaching out to a friend to reconnect - all really good ideas and investments.

Pat arrives with her daughter and son-in-law and race T-shirts, numbered bibs and safety pins are sorted out amongst the group. After we get a bit organized, Pat and I visit our friend Amy at Registration and pictures are taken with big hugs and bigger smiles.

The four of us find our way over to the Start, looking for bits of sunshine to stand in on this cool Fall morning. After some brief announcements, prayer and National Anthem, we're off! Pat and I are walking again, through the park, but this time on the road, walking down the middle of the blocked off street. Time flies. This is bliss. Friendship. Brisk walking. Fresh air. Sunshine. The park. Life is good.