Why do you run races? Is it to motivate you to run regularly? Is it for the competition? I was asking myself this question the morning of the Mistletoe Half-Marathon. Actually, I know the answer to why I was running that particular race. My husband loves the Mistletoe and was eager to sign up. Although he works out daily, he often struggles with the discipline to do the longer runs needed to prepare for a half-marathon. He asked me to sign up for the race too so that I would help him do the training. Despite not enjoying runs more than an hour in length, I said “yes” because that’s what you do in a marriage.
The morning of the Mistletoe Race was chilly, but I knew I would be plenty warm running. Knowing that still did not keep me from questioning, “Why am I doing this again?” I struggled the first few miles but after mile 3, I felt like I got into a rhythm. Based on my training, I thought maybe I could stay close to the 2:00 pacing group, led by Hannah Boles and Owen Watkins. I have to say that having the pacers on the course is a huge bonus to participants. I am so proud of TCTC members for volunteering for that job. A big shout-out to Colleen Sands Horton who coordinates the pacing groups. The TCTC Cheer Station, coordinated by Er Ralston, was awesome too! The music and dancing put a smile on my face. I thought, “This is why I run races – to be part of a community!”
Thank you to all TCTC members who volunteered to support runners that day. Whether you paced, cheered, provided bicycle support, gave out handwarmers at the Membership Table, or did some other job, your efforts and time are much appreciated!
Even after a good half-marathon experience, I still prefer to run no more than an hour. Later that week, I found a 10K race to run in 2026 and asked my husband if he would sign up with me. He said “yes” because that’s what you do in a marriage.