Beach to Bay

For years I have wanted to run in an annual marathon-length relay race that is held here in our city. It is a big deal and people come from all over to participate! Over the years the number of teams that signed up have grown in number - this year was the largest yet: 2675 teams at 6 people each! You do the math!!

In past years, the reason why I never joined in is because I was not physically ready to do so. FINALLY, this year was the year for me!

Initially I tried to recruit my family members to form our own team. I thought it would be so rewarding to do it as a family. I had three "definite's - count me in" and thats it! So, that idea was tossed.

Then I found out the YBP (Young Business Professionals), a group Josh attends, needed a person so I said I would do it. Yippee!

Cute Kayla eating pizza, free to all runners

So, I met the Deases' who are also involved in YBP and some of the other team members and knew I was on a great team!

Kayla and Hubby Steve

Anyway, my leg was the fourth (out of 6) and probably the most boring. It was the 4.2 mile stretch on the Naval Base. Did you hear me: NAVAL BASE. Think: sparse, barren, no trees, helicopter and airplane hangars, bland building colors, no views of the Ocean, BORING! And, there was a stretch of the run that had no wind, so at 10:00am, high humidity and a beating sun it made for a very hot, very long run. My saving grace was that when we ran through the residential part of the base, some very kind people were out on their lawns with their water hoses and sprinklers hosing us all down with cool water. RELIEF!!

I did learn a few things about running in Beach to Bay:

1. I will not run the 4th leg again.

2. I do not run well in crowds. I become way too distracted and lose my focus easily. That being said, I would love to run Beach to Bay again!!

3. Never buy brand new running shoes the night before a major run like that.

I had so much fun! I was on great team and I am looking forward to it again next year.