The Happy Runner

Yesterday, I had a great time participating in Drew Arellano’s Happy Run.

There’s nothing like running in a perfectly organized race. Congrats to Drew, Coach Rio and their team.

It was a great feeling being back in a race. The mixed feelings of anxiety and excitement give me such a high. It was nice to see old friends and meet new ones. I was also pleasantly surprised to see so many people running nowadays. I've also noticed that people perform at higher level and that there are more quality runners than before.


Picture courtesy of theBullrunner

I was extremely happy with my 15K time (1:30:46). It was a good comfortable run. And although it’s far from my old personal best, it’s what I can do now and I’m happy with it. :)

I also found myself running with a different race attitude. Before, I’d mark people throughout the race, do my best to out run them and move on to my next target. Yesterday, I chose people and used them as pace partners (especially on climbs). This way is definitely more fun!!!

I was especially proud to see my wife, Mayi, toughing out her ankle injury and still able clock in a good time. I usually pace her during long runs so I was worried about her running alone. Plus I also knew she was running injured. Seeing her in good form, going uphill on McKinley Hill, brought a smile to my face. Great job Mayi!!!

One bummer though were my hamstrings. They really hurt!!! They hurt during the race and was rather intense when I got home. But after a massage and a dose of a muscle relaxant plus an anti-inflammatory, I felt better. Not ok, but better.

Still, all things considered, I’d have to say Sunday's race was worth sacrificing Saturday night drinks. Hahahaha.