Poi Road Race #2

Despite suffering from the bad ole food poisoning only days before, I remained true to my goal of running the Mattapoisett 2008 Road Race on July 4th. I was not up to my usual speed this year, due to the illness, but our friends Jen, Billy, and Jeremy J traveled much farther than we did to run it, and I felt I'd let them and myself down if I didn't strap on my sneaks.

We arrived with a single minute before the start. We literally ran to the starting line only to turn around to run back in the direction we had just run from! The weather was tamer than last year, but still hot. As everyone I was with has a faster pace, I was left to my own devices and vegged out on my tunes.

I love the crowd that turns out for this race. Last year, I didn't know anyone, but felt welcomed. This year I overheard a woman yell, "Hey wait, that's Nils's wife!" soon after I passed her. Not yet I thought, but was warmed by the recognition and notion! Then, just when I needed a boost, our group of Poi friends were gathered on a lawn and yelled their support. When I turned the corner to the last block, finish line in sight, they reappeared cheering yet again. Thanks to you all for your traveling support!!

You can view my 868th place on the results page. Hey, I am a jogger...I'm damn proud that I maintained my goal of running this year in support of my longterm goal of running every year.

Now, I need to get back up to speed!