Wednesday, March 2, 2011

From THAT to THIS


This time last year I was training for my first-ever 5K. It was called 5K on St. Patrick's Day, which I chose because it was a completely flat course (hard to find in Colorado) and the weather was perfect for spring running. It was a great experience and ended up being the first of 6 races that I would run last year. I planned to do the same race again this year.

But...here we are...one week from the St. Patrick's Day race...and I have yet to sign up. It's not from lack of motivation or training. I continue to run 5 or 6 days a week and often run 5Ks as a regular part of my workouts. This is where I went from THAT to THIS.

Last year I was just a runner. This year...I find myself still running...but I am now also coordinating a 5K. COORDINATING. Not just helping. Not just being on a committee. I am THE race director. I don't say this with great pride...but with fear and trembling!

It all started when I ran a 5K fundraiser last year for a friend's school. She mentioned to me how much money the school made on that race, and I thought, "Why are we not doing this for Emma's school?" I suggested the idea to a friend, who is the PTO president, and she suggested I propose such an event at a PTO meeting. (Little did I know at the time that proposing the idea also meant coordinating the event. Lesson learned!)

So here we are...5 months into planning our event...2 1/2 months to go till race day...and I have yet to sign up for a single race this year. I am neck-deep in 5K planning and fundraising. It's fun...it's all-consuming...its rewarding...its my new passion.

I used to be a THAT (beginning runner), now I am a THIS (5K coordinator). It's weird to be on this side of things, but it has given me great appreciation for the people who host race events. So next time you are on the race course, thank those volunteers. They've put countless hours, time and energy into you having a great race experience.

P.S. For more information on the 5K FunRun I am coordinating for Colorado Springs Christian Schools, click here. We would love to have you join us!

6 comments:

Jewel said...

Way to go, Cristina! What a big undertaking! That race is in good hands!

Tom Eckert said...

It's been awhile with all that has happened here lately since I have been to your blog! I am so excited for you. I pray for you all everyday, I will pray that all goes without a hitch for you on the big day! You are a wonderful friend. Thanks for your cards of encouragement to me through all the busy that you have going on in your life. Bethany

Sbrock said...

CSCS is so very blessed to have your dedication to this event! It's going to be amazing and think of how you are showing your children and the students of CSCS the true meaning of servant leadership!

Amy said...

So proud of you and I know you will do GREAT!!!! Can't wait to hear how it goes!!!

John, Kisti, Maren & Silas Felps said...

I just hope you have good transportation options set up for the relay teams! ;-) Hee-hee!
You'll do a fantastic job!

Lan said...

I'm cheering for you! I have been running myself. It's a great feeling, huh? Love you!