I just realized Independence Day is four days away. While some of you are looking forward to your long weekend of celebrating the birth of our country, I’m growing more nervous. My friend and I recently decided we want to run in more community races, so we’re planning on participating in the 9th annual Stars & Stripes 5K. I enjoy running and try to exercise daily, but I’m no Usain Bolt. With just a few days left, it’s time for me to put down the potato chip bag and get down to business.
What should I expect the morning of the race? I’m a Chicago native, so I’m worried about the Oxford heat, even at 7:30 a.m. when the race starts. To prepare, I’ll switch from exercising in the air-conditioned gym to running outside. I’m also aware I won’t be running at a personal best pace. My goal for the day is just to survive and finish the race. At least I’ll have my friend by my side to wheeze in unison with me on every stride.
Hopefully, I won’t be too tired from the race to participate in the other Independence Day activities. But I can assure you this girl will run a little faster knowing a pizza competition is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. After the race, I’ll run (figuratively of course) over to the Powerhouse so I can taste different pizzas and pick my personal favorite in the Slice of Americana Pizza Competition. I’ll also be sure to arrive at Swayze Field early to get the perfect seat for fireworks.
I can only hope that this Independence Day is one for the books. Either way, I will finish the race not with a bang but more than likely with a few ice packs on my legs. For your entertainment I will strap on a GoPro camera to document the race. Stay tuned for a follow up blog with the results!
Olivia Rearick, an intern in the UM Office of Communications, is a recent UM graduate with a degree in journalism. She is from Glen Ellyn, Ill.