Firecracker Fun

What are your plans to celebrate the 4^th? More
than likely, there’s some type of afternoon BBQ and fireworks-viewing party on
your long weekend agenda. For many of you, there may even be a local race to
kick off the festivities.

For several years,
when I lived in Santa Cruz, CA,
I ran the Firecracker 10k in Harvey West Park.
It was one of those races where everyone in town came out of the woodwork – I
had certain acquaintances that I literally saw only once a year at the annual
race. It was a bit of a ritual, running that challenging 10k through the hilly
trails and roads bordering UCSC and then chowing down afterward on a
well-earned pancake breakfast. If you were lucky enough to win an age group
award, the race directors always managed to drum up some type of kitschy
all-American gems, such as Coca-Cola logo glassware.

There’s bound to be
a 4th of July 5k or 10k in your area as well – a family friendly
event that encourages parents and kids alike to get out and get active. What
better way to celebrate your independence (and athletic ability)
than to run, run, run!