A Very Poplar Run 15k Race Recap

We all have a running story. Sometimes, it's easy to compare our running abilities and weaknesses to others, wondering why others are stronger or faster runners than ourselves. But like I previously stated, we all have our running stories, and just how I wouldn't appreciate for other runners to interrupt my story with theirs, then it's just as important for me to honor the running stories of others and not interrupt their accomplishments with my insecurities. This were just some of the thoughts that ran through my mind at a 15K I signed up for (A Very Poplar Run) this past Saturday October 26th.

The run was at a Poplar Tree Farm, and the race entry was only $20. Best of all, the proceeds went to an organization that helps to feed and clothe individuals in need. There were three different racing distances - 5k, 10k, and 15K. There was also a mile race for children. The race started at 10:30 am, which was perfect for those of us who lived 2 hours away from the tree farm. This also gave me the opportunity to eat breakfast early enough without worrying how it would affect my running. For the record, I usually run on an empty stomach, but I ate a granola bar, a banana, and some beef jerky. I also don't drink any fluids two hours prior to my race (or I'll end up using the restroom throughout the entire race) and enjoyed a cold glass of grape juice.

I want to write about the race, but I'll let my pictures do all of the talking.

The Start of the Race with my Swirlgear Pink Hoodie

We ran in between the trees.

One of the paved trails.

It was very serene and scenic.

Because the race had about 500 participants, I almost had the trail to myself.

I have to admit that due to some confusion in the marking of the trails, the distance was not a full 15K. It was probably only 8+ miles. There were finisher awards, but because runners before me helped themselves to more than one award, there weren't any left by the time I finished. In the end though, the race and its circumstances never changed my running story. This was the farthest distance since January of 2012 and since giving birth 13 months ago. I'm still on a goal to accomplish a half marathon in under two hours. In order to get there, I must believe in myself, I must tackle my insecurities within me that have always prevented me from taking risks for fear of failure. They say that art imitates life. I say running imitates life. Regardless of the trail, distance, aches, and challenges, there is a finish line we all have to cross.

What is your running story? Have you ran a race where the event did not go as planned and still saw the beauty of how far you've come?