Steps

Read on to decipher the title.

Saturday agenda #1-steps to independence 5k

The steps to independence 5k was timed by Accuchip. This race was in Broward county & began 7 am. Although the quantity (of participants) were low, the quality of those who competed made this a tough one. Even though I was in the top ten (7th) overall, I was fortunate to get 3rd master. That's means that at least 3 at or above my age were faster. Upon conclusion, I had about 5-10 minutes of recovery, then I had to pack up & go to next 5k. Fortunately, George picked up the medal for me.

Saturday agenda #2-1 step at a time 5k

I preregistered for this inaugural race in hopes of a better event. Since it started at 8:30, my crazy mind decided it was plausible to complete a double header. The runs weren't the challenge, but getting from one to another was. It was an overcast day & this event was in Palm beach county. Fortunately, I was smart enough to pre-register, thereby reducing loss of time. By the grace of God, I made it in time to begin. I failed to break 19 in both races; bummer. Since no master title was offered, I had to settle for top age group. I like the plaque that was awarded.

Sunday agenda-save the troops triathlon

This was known as the last sprint triathlon of the year. Title was adjusted out of respect to the troops, even allowing them to compete overseas & have that count here. Naturally, I dressed accordingly. The swimmer did as expected (top 3 women). Gene did wonderfully in lieu of Aaron & posted the fastest run time of all relays, 6th overall. Due to the wind, I was reduced by minutes to my normal riding time. Luckily, it met the average of the co-ed teams. We placed 3rd, behind two professional teams-#1 had the best swimmer (Ft Lauderdale Aquatics) & #2 had the fastest cyclist (Downtown bicycles, a sponsor). We were the first non pro team. This one had the best amenities ever for any event they hosted thusfar this year.

Thursday agenda-Waterford 5k

After all the running, I decided to racewalk since, like a 10k, there are only a handful that give out awards. I literally had to get to stepping. I was tempted to switch to the run by partner Mike, but I stuck to my original plans. When the dust cleared, I was third overall behind two well established racewalkers, Tim Nichols, winner & also superb runner/triathlete, and local favorite Juan Yanes. Praise the Lord, I was able to get by a jogger to earn my title. The 'crystal' award was nice but I got ripped off of a gift bag/certificate;who ever heard of only the top 2? This would qualify as a flash race with all those giveaways.

Honorable mention

* Good ol' buddy Mike got his PR & placed in the top 5!
* Teammate Gene, also got a PR & placed in the top 10!
* Teammate Caroline, also got a PR & placed in the top 5 women!
* George won his category in all aforementioned 5k's, except #2 because he wasn't there. He made an appearance at the tri & we cooled down on the new course.