July 4th 5K Fun Run Recap!

Last Monday, the organizers of our local marathon put out a query on Facebook:  would anyone be interested in participating in a low-key, free 5K on Thursday (July 4th)?  Within an hour, the response was so great that the race was on.  More than 300 people showed up, and we had a great time!  The atmosphere was very playful - not only were most people dressed in red, white and blue, but there were some fun costumes and American flag running shorts worn...and of course I have pictures!  We ran 2:1 intervals, we chatted with other runners, we stayed around afterward for watermelon - it was a great way to celebrate the Fourth of July, and I hope that this fun run happens again next year!

Pictures:

Jeff, me, Julia and her husband Scott - we all got the memo on what color to wear...

But there's always a rebel in the group - Amy!  I guess she was showing her independence by NOT going with the crowd.

I made a ribbon thing for my hair - considered buying a kooky patriotic hat, but figured I'd melt under it if I tried to run in it.  I'm also wearing blue earrings, to complete the color theme. :)

OK.  Fair warning now...you may want to avert your eyes.  The running store got in a shipment of American flag "split shorts" (meaning that they are really short AND split up the sides...eek!), and, um...well, maybe you have to see it to believe it: 

This is Frito.  Yes that's his name - well, his radio name, anyway.  He's the morning DJ on our local radio station and is very funny - I actually switch from Sirius radio to his station, Candy 95, if I'm in the car in the morning.  Anyway, I didn't know he was a runner...and a pretty bold runner at that!  (P.S.  Julia once again did my dirty work and took the picture as I was too embarrassed to approach a half-nekkid man - thanks, J!)

But wait, there's more:

Mike (running store co-owner) - he REALLY committed to the theme.  I tried to get his picture solo but he made us pose with him.  Somehow he's under the impression that I post his crazy outfits on the web...I have no idea why he thinks that!

Mike's shoes (same as what our Olympic athletes wore) and compression sleeves...oh, and the red Thorlo socks (how do I not own that color?!?).

But wait!  There's still more:

Dan (running store co-owner) rocked the layered look (thank you) with his flag shorts.  Love the way he worked his pose...he's ready for the catwalk!

Not sure which was redder, my face, my shirt or the watermelon:

Watermelon was the perfect post-race treat for the Fourth of July!

This isn't my picture - it was taken by Larry Field, who is the official photographer for the BCS Marathon (and he happens to be the race director's dad), but it was so nice I had to show you:

Two hot air balloons flew over us during the race, and Mr. Field captured the perfect shot!