I arrived to the Santa Hustle to witness thousands of Santa Claus everywhere. In addition to the tech shirt, all runners received a Santa hat and beard to be worn during the 5k. I wasn't sure as to how much the runners would get into wearing the full Santa gear, so I took all of my "outfit" thinking there wouldn't be many wearing the full beard. I was very wrong. The majority of the participants were sporting the full hat and beard. So, I yanked on my Santa hat and pulled my beard on just before jumping out of the car. The beard was a tad itchy and I couldn't see tolerating that for 3 miles, so I just wore it down on my neck. It was difficult to run this race very quickly. To avoid the cold, I stayed back as long as long as possible prior to heading towards the start. I ended up not being able to start before the twelve minute pace area. With the narrow running path provided, it was often difficult to pass slower runners.
I usually don't take water from the volunteers on a 5k, but for some reason I felt the need on this one. Just say what I got wasn't water and was definitely a surprise. Thankfully, I noticed my cups contents prior to choking down the unexpected M&M's. I quickly put those down and asked the next time I had cup handed to whether its contents were water or some other surprise.
It was a festive event as multiple groups of runners sang Jingle Bells and other holiday songs. I was even passed by a couple of runners carrying buckets of cookies offering them to their fellow runners. I passed on the sweet snacks, but thought it was neat gesture.
With a finishing time of 31:39:30, there were definitely no PR's being committed, but just running in the frigid 20 degrees is still an accomplishment for me!
Thanks to those who have endured reading my long, sometimes rambling blog entries, liked me on Facebook and/or have followed me on Twitter. If you have yet to do so and are a glutton for punishment, you may find me here on Facebook and/or follow me on Twitter.
Happy Holidays!
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