Waiting For A Cure 8k...Plus

This week has been a very hectic and emotional one for me (and other running friends). Without going into a lot of detail, I'll start by commenting on my runs for the week. Getting in an 11-miler this week was nice with running 8 of them with my friend, Frank. I began increasing my miles before he began his program but we'll catch up in another week when my mileage drops back. The heat-and-humidity combo is getting better. As long as the heat is not high, I can deal with the humidity easier. This week I biked two days and really enjoyed it. Plans are to bike 1-2 times a week. Hope I can report that I've kept that plan.

On a sad note, I was and have been totally wiped out over the news of a good friend's test results. Bill G. is a picture of health and it was discovered that he has been diagnosed with cancer of the stomach and liver. He's a strong person and overcame another cancer episode when he was 30. I have no doubt that he will continue to live life to its fullest in spite of this diagnosis. Oddly, HE has encouraged me through his many posts as a result of this news. How ashamed of myself am I!! He played a big role during my first marathon training and race earlier this year and with yesterday's race it appears he will continue to be my role model and encourager during hard times/races. I began taking photos of other GCRC winners within the year and only have a couple to share of him. He's always a winner! Just look what good shape he's in...you're my hero, Bill!! I've also learned recently that he is an Ironman...oh, my gosh, I want to be like him soooo bad! He's #277 and #21.



On to the race...
Kent and I pre-regisgered for this race knowing it was going to be a tough one. As a matter of fact, the closer it got, the more "mind games" it began to play on me. Changing from last year, this race is now a TAC Certified 8k race and is now run over and back on the Ocean Springs Bridge! Man...this thing is tough just to run it, much less RACE it. At first, I was very excited and pumped. Then memories of the toughness of "just running" IT came back to mind. But this time it's a race. I believe I'm right in saying this is the first 8k race registered in the MS State Running Records. Congrats to everyone that made the new list! Here are a few pics. Although I HATE showing my finishing photo, I have few action pics...thanks, Ed W. for taking it! Check out "part" of the incline of the bridge in the background...whoa!

Now, tell me, is this not something you want to shield your kid's eyes from?? Scary, huh??

Kent crossing the line strong. He's doing so good in RW and actually had a really good time for this hilly race AND fighting a bout of gout at the same time. I'm sooo proud of you!! Muah!!! And, yeah, YOU are my first and foremost hero!

Tommy P. as he crosses the line. Congrats on 3rd place in your a/g!

Kent 3rd Overall RW...great job!

Nancy-2nd & Me- 3rd in our age group. Good runners out today...yay!

Ed W. on right.

Bob C. on left.

Race results can be found here.

Candid shots:

Pic with a great friend, Ed W.

Bob C., Adam F., ?, Leah, Mark K., Allen S. (standing)

Mark, you don't deserve that donut...quit smiling...you did NOT race today!!

Well, I'll say "what a different week this has been!" All in all, it's ended with keeping a positive attitude. Live the best and hardest you can with a smile on your face. You may never know how you influence others! Until next time...

Run4It