I was momentarily discombobulated when they couldn’t find my registrastion, recovered when they granted me an-on-the-spot sponsor exemption, then rediscombobulated when I was standing at the starting line with less than a minute to go and realized I’d never gotten a timing chip. Well, rats, I thought. The race won’t count.
Category Archives: Running
Choosing a 5K from a chunk of options
Tomorrow, I turn 55. In observation, I’ve decided that my year in fitness should revolve around the number 55. Since I dabble in running, I’ve decided one of my goals will be to run 11 5Ks, the logic being: 11 races x 5K = 55(K). But which 11 5Ks to do? It was a decision that became more difficult as I looked around and discovered just how many 5Ks there are.
Umstead 100 ultra volunteers go the distance (Part II)
Yesterday, our look at the volunteers who make possible every run, triathlon, road bike ride, mountain bike race, adventure race — whatever kind of amateur competition you can think of — left off with a bevy of helpers trying to help an ailing 42-year-old Richard McKnight of Arizona finish the last five miles of the Umstead 100 endurance race. Today, a look at more of the 300-plus volunteers who made the Umstead 100, held April 2 and 3, happen — and whether they could help get McKnight to the finish.
Umstead 100’s ultra volunteers go the distance (Part I)
Shortly before 5 a.m., Richard McKnight wanders into the aid tent, cold, exhausted, disoriented. He’s been running for 23 hours straight and has 95 miles behind him. Somehow, he still needs to run another 5. More than 300 people will do everything they can to make that happen.
This weekend: Run, run/walk/ride, hike
There’s no lack of options this weekend for working off some excess energy.
Coast
Two races Saturday in two beach towns where you’ll want to linger afterward.
5K Race for the Planet at Fort Fisher. “This flat, mostly asphalt course is scenic with views of the ocean, maritime forest, and historic Fort Fisher Civil War site,” according to race organizers. Run the race at 8 a.m. (registration begins at 7) then hang out and tour the aquarium and hike out to the Fort Fisher Hermit’s old digs. $25 to race. Music and refreshments follow. 910.458.7468 for more information, or go here.