A couple hundred runners again assembled on a cold, breezy Alabama morning. The 2013 Hospice of West Alabama 5K is now in the books.Sokol Park was bustling today at 6:45am when I rolled the 95.3 The Bear truck in on two wheels. The scene was one of race organizers getting situated, volunteers were get runners signed in and were helping get displays set up as the participants all madly tried to get their bib numbers on and get their body stretched out and fueled.

For me, I strolled in, registered, and just tried to stay warm. Honestly, the wind and 50 degrees I experienced today was a welcome change from last weekend’s 34 degree start of the inaugural Tuscaloosa Half Marathon! Today, my body heat rose quickly whereas last weekend it never did.

I’d be perfectly content if every Saturday morning could start with a community organized 5K run. Yeah, I could run around my home course but it’s not the same. I live for the race atmosphere, one where newbies and veterans stand side by side and “talk shop” as they prepare to push the limits of their bodies and minds.

Now let me level with you, I’m not a fast runner and don’t want to lead you to believe otherwise. I kind of fall in between those groups I just spoke of. Actually, if you look in my box of saved race bib numbers, you’ll progressively see my 5K time dwindle a little more with each race. I think it’s a combination of over-confidence, not enough training and too much Mexican food to be honest with you.  But regardless, I love the race atmosphere! I love the people, the challenge and the reward.

This morning was no different. Mother Nature saw fit to put the sun high in the sky and hold off the warmer temps until well after we were done. Hospice of West Alabama got more funds and exposure for their wonderful organization and us runners got to start the weekend off on a high note!

Plus, Big Al made an appearance! It was good. Roll Tide!

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