Resolution 5K Run / what gets you out the door (Part 2)

Resolution 5K Run - January 1, 2010
9:00 a.m. in Mitch Park, Edmond, OK
A cross-country 5,000 meter race sponsored by the Edmond Track Club (see Kent Douglas @ 405-570-1216 or KentAndBrenda@gmail.com)

It was a Happy and Butt-Kicking New Year's Day for all who braved the cold and icy conditions to run. The course at Mitch Park was well prepared and marked by Kent and Brenda Douglas. Given the 22F temperature at the start, the course was hard frozen in most spots. Snow drifts in the open fields and tree covered sections made for a challenging run. No injuries were reported for any of the racers.

A huge note of thanks to Kent and Brenda Douglas for their dedication and hard work that made the event possible. It was very important to have a run on January 1. Is there a better way for runners to start a year? Also, I am thankful to have talked one-on-one with two die-hard runners that day. Marianne and Richard were there bright and early to take on the course. Marianne won the race (her first cross country event - brave lady!) and Richard finished second. I trailed behind them in true Clydesdale fashion.

Looking back on it, the most demanding parts were the drifts. Like a tough football practice workout - the tire drill. Knees up, way up! Crunching through a crust of snow and ice and negotiating frozen foot tracks was a challenge to say the least. Imagine 150+ meters of tires with snow on top.

Also, I was privileged to play the Run On Sentences collection on the p.a. system at the race. If you live north of Mitch Park and wondered just what the ruckus was, you now know. Please see the highlight reel below for a summary of the race & music. If you want more information about my music, see the links section of my blog. The Run On Sentences collection is ever-expanding and incorporating a wide range of tempos and styles.


Speaking of resolutions...Part 2

What gets you out the door to run?

I hear many things: to feel strong, for self-confidence, as a form of meditation, a healthy habit, an endorphin rush, to feel better about oneself, to take the next step in training for a big event... Simply stated, runners NEED to run.

On a personal note, the happier times of my adult life are linked with running. I am not an athlete by nature but running has made me active and healthier mentally. Running music now helps to propel me too. Please see my Twitter list called "Listen With Your Feet" list for some inspiration, including Lady Southpaw, Hellasound, and Bold Pace Music to name a few.

I am always glad to discuss running and music or the pursuit of both. Leave a comment here on the blog or contact me whichever way you like (email: LinwoodStudios@gmail.com, twitter: @LinwoodStudios).

Cheers to a Happy, Healthy New Year of Running & Music

Jonathan