Ready, Set, GLOW!

"Let's all run some trails, in the dark with glow sticks" they said... and like that, I was game!  Heck, maybe they didn't even say it exactly like that, or specifically even ask, but those are the words I told myself when looking into doing this "fun run" a couple months back. Honestly, I think I sought out the chance and perfect opportunity to hang with the "big dogs" and once again be in the pack of some amazing runners and friends.

What. A. Night.  I bet if you asked Pina or Pippa if I enjoyed myself, they would probably have a hard time answering.  I was so looking forward to this night, days and hours leading up to that moment when we would hear "GOOOO".  When we pulled in the parking lot, I felt ready and eager to go share this experience with friends!  

When it was time, we all hustled up a grassy hill into the woods to begin our 5ish mile mission. Single file, in a pretty defined "single track" our lights illuminated Dryer Road Park.  One foot in front of the other we formed lines of people on a mission to conquer this trek!

Over the course of the race, I stumbled... a bunch of times. Even though you heard considerate racers in front of you scream "Roots" (which was probably uttered at least a thousand times) or "High Step", "Log", "Step Down"... etc, it was only a warning to try to prepare your body for your next step.

I've always been clumsy... that's no secret...  but last night was a challenge for such a clumsy girl. Throw in some pretty intense inclines, THE DARK WOODS, and sharp declines... and you have a salad of possibilities. Yep a salad... and around the middle of mile three, I added the dressing with a pretty big spill on my left foot.  That stupid left foot is always my demise.

While allowing others to pass by, I tried to gain my composure. I'm sure the tears on my face glistened as headlamps moved on ahead, but at that point, I didn't care. Okay, well maybe a little... but it was short lived. I tried to insist to Pina and Pippa to continue on so I could have a moment in some self pity... but c'mon, they are as stubborn as I am... and just ignored my words and helped me up. My pride was damaged and wondered how bad my ankle was at that moment. As we finished the run, they tried to keep the mood light, and looking back I feel bad that I just remained silent and fixated at that finish line. I have such amazing friends!!!! 

Today, as I look up and see that swollen bump on my left ankle, wrapped up in an ace bandage with a huge wegmans bag filled with ice on it... I'm not angry anymore... but EXCITED that I had raced. It's all just part of The Climb, right?

Thanks Pina, thanks Pippa... and to Carrie, Moogle, Gina and my hubby James for hanging out last night.  I'll always remember my first official Trails ROC experience, and I'll be back again for some more fun! The entire running community in Rochester is truly special and unique... and I love being part of it!!!!! That's what moves me today.