Racing with Santa

December may be my best month for races. I had near PR times in a 10k and 5k this month. Both were Christmas themed runs with people in Santa hats and costumes.

The “Jingle Bell Run” for Arthritis Foundation was a 10k in downtown Detroit. A fun course through the streets of the city on a 30 degree Saturday morning. My 48:48 was good enough for second place in my division. Unfortunately I left before they posted results so I didn’t collect my medal.

Then the following weekend was the first annual “Santa Hat Hustle” 5k in downtown Royal Oak. In fact, the start and finish was at St Paul Lutheran School, which is my church school. It was great to have over 600 people pass through our school building and learn we are there.

My 23:37 placed me ninth in my division that cold morning. Like most races, I had a strong kick at the end which means I probably could have held a faster pace throughout if I had really pushed.

These cold weather races are certainly easier on the body than running in the heat of summer. Maybe I need to find more winter races before Spring arrives.