As the Real World intro goes: “This is the true story, of four friends, picked to spend the weekend in a hotel, run 13.1 miles together, and have their lives documented on social media. Find out what happens, when people stop being polite and start getting real… The Real World!” Ok, so I adapted the intro line to better reflect the Let’s Geaux Run NOLA group.
Let’s Geaux!
Michael, Christina, Rachel and I will be running the Jazz Half Marathon in New Orleans on Saturday, October 28 to eradicate childhood cancer! It isn’t too hard to convince these pals for a race-cation when you’ve all enjoyed 2 other races together – Rock ‘n’ Roll Savannah & the Miami Half Marathon. I was turned onto this NOLA race from an article in Runner’s World Magazine. The article read:
During the city’s idyllic fall season, the Jazz Half Marathon takes runners under St. Charles Avenue’s majestic live oaks and showcases the city’s renowned local music scene at its post-race party. Truthfully, though, there’s no bad time for a runner to visit The Big Easy (okay, maybe August, when it’s a sauna).
Now doesn’t that sound lovely? And I promised hand grenades, jambalaya, and beignets to everyone who finishes with a smile. Let’s get real… we run to eat! If you have any must do tips, feel free to send them my way.
The only downside to a fall race is, of course, running in the Florida summer heat. Thankfully, misery loves company. And if I promise Michael pancakes afterward, he’ll run anywhere. Bless his heart! The four of met up to do 10 miles today through Delray Beach. We got to dodge some of Irma’s damage (sandy sidewalks and fallen trees) while sharing some laughs.
Running Etiquette
Michael & Rachel are diehard dreadmill runners. They’ll easily smoke out 6 miles on that hamster wheel like it ain’t a big deal. Christina and I are used to a training group run outside and with the Galloway gang for long runs. Now, I will force myself to get mileage on a treadmill during the week but I would prefer an outdoor run. I also know that realistically my race is outside and the two types of runs are very different.
At one point today, Michael turned to me and said, “Runners are just so friendly.” He’s right and I think that’s why so many people get sucked into a running community. The topic of running etiquette came up and so let’s review…
- SAY HI: Whether it’s a quick “Good morning,” head nod or a wave, greet your passers bye. Some runners are in the zone and may not reciprocate but most of the speed walkers we say this morning loved the sense of camaraderie.
- Michael was the chief greeting of the group this morning!
- RUN RIGHT, PASS LEFT: When running on the sidewalk or running path, stay to the right and give a friendly “On your right” call-out as you pass on the left.
- ROADRUNNER: If you are running on the road, be sure to run against traffic.
Run for a Cause
My biggest motivator to run (whether it’s a mile or 26.2 miles) is to benefit a charity. I try to always use the Charity Miles app to donate my miles to earn money for special causes. I had featured a number of ways to help Hurricane Harvey in a previous post. Since Hurricane Irma impacted the Caribbean and Florida recently, some groups and charities are contributing to the relief efforts. For those looking to support recovery, consider signing up for the Save the Children Run for Relief Virtual 10K for $25.The site even states that you can “Run, Walk, Crawl or Cycle” this virtual event! The greatest part is that you can use Charity Miles to log miles for Save the Children while you’re running your virtual 10K. DOUBLE CHARITY! Remember, when you do good, you feel good. Will you join me?
