National Run Day

Boy, you guys are hearing a lot from me this week. I am trying to get my motivation back and one way to do it is taking part in the National Run Day celebration put on by none other than Houston's Marathon Committee. Nothing quite says June in Houston like a 5pm run in 95 degree weather on the Seymour Lieberman Exercise Trail in Memorial Park, in the blazing sun with very little shade. This run has become an annual tradition for me. The first year I attempted it I couldn't even get around the loop. Last year I managed 1 loop and this year I parked in the south lot ran half way up the loop to the party's starting point, ran the loop, and then walked (with a bit of 2 minute intervals) the rest of the loop back to my car. In all just under 6 miles in the blazing hot Houston sun. I really appreciate that the Houston Marathon puts on this and the Party in the Park for Houston runners. I know it server their purpose to get people excited about the opening day of the lottery for the race, which just happens to be National Run Day, but they really do kind of go above any beyond at this event. First off it's a supported run, no there's no water stops on the loop but there is plenty of water, beer and gateraid when you finish. As well as a few vendors handing out munchies and other free goodies. And a free t-shirt! This years was way better than previous years. It's a soft cotton wicking blend, unlike the heavy pure cotton ones that segregated marathoners from the halfers. Secondly, there's a good crowd. Easily a few hundred runners came out this year. Nothing quite like celebrating National Run Day with a few hundred other runners who are running for the joy of running.