The last 18 months have challenged my identity as a runner. As I've dealt with the pain of hallux rigidus in my right foot and recurrent numbness in my left foot, there were many times I questioned whether I would truly ever think of myself as a runner again.
I am relieved and grateful to be able to say that I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. I finally see myself as a runner again!
"Our friend and BFF Shawn Mullaney crossed her final finish line at 5:45 last evening. Shawn was the toughest woman I know and fought against her cancer with superhero focus and determination. Rest in peace, dear Shawn." - Molly
It feels strange not to be writing a race recap for the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run, so I decided to write a "Race Weekend" recap from my perspective as social media coordinator.
It may look long, but I promise it's mostly pictures! It was one very busy - but fun - weekend, as I posted away on Facebook & Twitter on behalf of #CUCB2017.
Prefer a picture course guide? Check out the Photo Run
Start Line
You are here: Starting corrals
Photographer: There are plenty of MarathonFoto photographers in this area. Look for the yellow vests and make sure your bib number is visible so you can find your photos after the race (see tips for good Cherry Blossom photos here)
Water: To the right of the starting corrals (assuming you are facing forward)
Tips: Head to your corral early to get to the front where congestion is less of an issue.
Although I hadn't planned on running any races until I had rebuilt some of my lost endurance and speed, the Lucky Leprechaun 5K presented me with an opportunity I couldn't refuse.
I had the opportunity to run with a friend and experience her first 5K through her eyes.
I closed out my strange year of relatively little running & learning to manage hallux rigidus with one of my favorite races, the Fairfax Four Miler.
I love the party atmosphere of this New Year's Eve race, and sharing it with festive friends makes it even better.
We gathered a group of Reston Runners BFFs and named our team "Sass and Sparkle" - Shawn, Mechelle, Molly, Norma, Laura and me. We were missing Laurie, who was home with a cold.