Anyone Can Run A Mile

In October 2007 I ran the half-marathon portion of the Detroit Free Press/Flagstar Marathon.  When I took a running break afterward, I wasn’t expecting that my next run would be almost two years later.  I could probably come up with a million excuses as to why I stopped running – the cold Michigan winter in 2007, moving to California in the summer of 2008, adjusting to San Diego and being intimidated by the hills in my new neighborhood, returning to work after six years of being a stay at home mom, and on and on.  Like I said, lots of excuses.  But for whatever reason, it took until last month to see if I could redeem myself as a runner.

On Sunday I proved to myself that I still have what it takes.  After hearing about the Navy’s 23rd Original Bay Bridge Run/Walk from a friend, I signed myself up (just in time too – the event sold out quickly).  The Bay Bridge Run/Walk is a four mile course over the Coronado Bay Bridge.  The event raises funds for Navy Quality of Life Programs.

Sunday morning was perfect for a running event.  The race didn’t start until eight but I drove myself downtown early to find a good parking spot.  Plus, I had a lot of nervous energy and excitement and couldn’t wait to start.  It was a perfect morning for a run despite (or maybe because of) it being overcast with a few on and off drizzles.  My time was 48 minutes and 20 seconds.  I had to laugh at myself because it seems like no matter what I do, I can’t break past that 12-minute mile.

As I walked toward the ferry to cross the bay and return to my car, I couldn’t help but think that it had been a perfect day.  I’m already looking forward to my next run – the Aflac Iron Girl 5k on June 7th (my birthday).  I’ve even recruited some friends to run with me.