Semper Fi, Super Fast!

I got a new PR today! I ran the Semper Fi 5k Charity Run downtown this morning. The 8am start was a little warm, and there wasn't much of a breeze to speak of, although I did feel like I had a headwind for some of the route. I met Phil and Marie at the start. It was nice to see familiar faces.

So here's what my GPS said:

mile      time    pace
1          9:32     9:30
2         10:00   10:04
3         9:45      9:46
0.16    1:24      8:34

3.16     30:42  9:43

WOWZA! How great is that?! (and no, I can't figure out why the pace and the time don't match)

My official race time was 30:47, giving me a pace of 9:45, which is still AWESOME! I have now shaved 4:38 off my time in four months. AND I have maintained a sub-10 minute mile successfully for 3.16 miles. Wow! I think I've even beaten my PR from 15 years ago!

I really wanted it this morning and I really pushed. Could I have pushed harder? Maybe. But I am beyond thrilled with today's performance!

Before the race started, Phil introduced me to a friend they saw there, Glenn. He's a Marine, but I have no idea of his last name or which organization he's with. Phil told him about the deployment and that Bill was in his squadron and so on. Well, I ran into him after the race and he emphasized that if I needed anything, like help moving something heavy or fixing something, that I should call him. He said that I should get his number from Phil and keep it in my deployment survival folder in case of emergency. I was really touched by his earnestness and sincerity. He doesn't even know me, but he is ready, willing, and able to lend a hand to help me if I need it. It is that sense of family that the military community has and I treasure it.

I know that I have a true military family. I will not be alone on holidays or birthdays. I may not know the people well, but I am part of the family and will be welcomed with open arms. The military really does take care of its own, and it is inspiring.  I am amazed and touched.