My First Post-Partum 10k

Last night, I was perusing my Facebook page and noticed someone posted a message about a 10K happening at a local university here in Eastern Oregon. The farthest I've ran since I started running six weeks ago was four miles. I figured that a 10K would be challenging enough and went for it.

Even though it's just the beginning of the Fall Season, the temperature this morning was a chilly 29 degrees (brrrrr). I wore my bright yellow Swirlgear long sleeve top and running tights. A black beanie to keep my noggin warm added the "I look like I'm a fast and serious runner" look. My awesome hubby dropped me off the curb of the campus building where registration was happening and I nervously approached the group. People smiled at me, but I kept to myself because I felt like the new girl at school during lunch that did not have a table to sit and pretended not to care. Since it is a small town, I wasn't expecting a massive turnout, but I was also taken aback when I saw there were only about 50 or so runners and walkers. There was a cute little Terrier at the starting line, but I don't think I counted him.

Feeling Good after my 10K

Because my goal was to finish the 10K, I opted not to keep track of time and it helped that there weren't any clocks at the start or finish line. I took off and about half a mile later, three female runners introduced themselves to me. They were much faster than me and I was worried they would think I was as fast (or faster) than they, and I immediately told them "I am going to attempt to keep up with you." Of course I didn't, but I did keep up with one of the ladies and we ran the entire 10K together. I think she was happy a non-fast runner like me happened to show up to the race so she could have a partner to run with rather than run and try to keep up with the other runners she came with.

The 10K consisted of two loops around the Campus and the city. There was a small hill towards mile 3/6, but it was tolerable. At the end of the race, delicious breakfast was served (quiche, bagels, pastries, fresh fruit, coffee, juice, and mimosas) and many other runners introduced themselves to me. In fact, I was even asked for my number so I could be invited to future runs. I felt triumphant not only because I completed my first 10k since I gave birth a year ago, but also because it's been my longest run since I found out I was pregnant back in January of 2012.  I also loved the size of the race and the camaraderie I felt during and after the race. Have you ever ran a small race in a small town? Did you find it to be any different than big races in big cities?

EOU Campus