Cherry Blossom

Credit Union Cherry Blossom

Ten Mile Run

It's finally here! My day started with a 5:15am alarm followed by a quick 9minute snooze fest, dreaming that it is too early to be functional. By the second alarm, I could not wait to get to the race. I layered on the running gear: spandex pants, breathable long sleeve shirt, shoes, watch, headband, and water belt. I think to myself, 'Damn I look official. Let's get this running party started!' 5:45 I am out the door for a quick jog to the metro and meet my fellow dedicated runners in the cold darkness anxiously waiting for the train to take us to our destination. I hop out at Bethesda to meet Kerry and Danny to drive the rest of the way. As I'm waiting, I take advantage of the nearest hotel's restroom to drop a necessary pre-race shadoobie, but not much success. Back outside, I watch the sun slowly rise between the buildings. Simply breathtaking; this moment of solitude and appreciating the symbolism of the sun awakening to brighten up the day is what life is about.

It's go time! Kerry and I decide to run the race together all the way to the end. I followed her lead as she weaved between the crowded path of people for the first 2 or so miles, with bursts of sprints into the openings. We kept a good fast pace and miles 3-6 seemed to fly by as we swapped storied about the most embarrassing college incidents. 7-8 were a bit tough for me because the cramp I was trying to ignore became more painful and made my gut swell. At the moment of a quick wince of doubt at mile 9, a stranger encouraged me, "9minutes. You can do anything for 9minutes." That kept me going. Kerry and I started our sprint earlier probably than we should have. Up a hill; people cheering; this race seemed like it was never ending. Then, just ahead, we spotted the finish line banner. Seeing that was like fireworks and we sprinted our hearts out, weaving once again. BAM! One of the best feelings in the world: accomplishment. I earned that finish.