Ran a 10K with a Police Escort

I ran the Alameda "Run for the Parks" 10K this morning and came in last. Not just last in my age group, but dead last. Number 466 out of 466 runners. My running partner, Nancy, finished 3/10ths of a second ahead of me. In fact, the police motorcycle guy was trailing us and the race people were picking up the orange cones as we passed them. Official time is 1:36:00, which translates to 15:28min/mile.

Ironically, I felt really good during the entire time...no cramps and no aching feet, plus I really enjoyed myself. It was the first time I ran almost an entire race while chatting with someone. Tina, Dennis and I started together, but I didn't see them again until the finish line. Nancy (a total stranger) and I started chatting at about mile 1.5 and didn't stop yakking until after crossing the finish line. During the 1hour and 30 some minutes, we discussed everything from Alameda architecture and zoning laws to traveling to Mumbai and Hindu meditation. Very fascinating person and an absolute joy to run with.

I ran this same race last year, but did not chat with anyone. Despite finishing with a faster time, I did not enjoy myself nearly as much and was too focused on where that finish line was. This year, I actually regretted seeing the finish line, because I could've gone another 5 miles discussing more interesting topics.

Afterwards, I had a huge breakfast with Tina, Dennis, Matt and Christine. Since Christine and Matt didn't run, they had tolerate our sweatiness and stinkiness.