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CARA rocks my socks off! But not my Asics.

Published on 26/03/08
by Maureen

I recently joined the Chicago Area Runners Association on the recommendation of one of my co-workers, who used it to train for the 2006 Chicago Marathon. Probably one of the more solid decisions I’ve ever made.

My first training program started in mid-February and was geared toward the Shamrock Shuffle, which takes place this Sunday and starts on Columbus Drive near Millennium Park. Not only was it reasonably priced at $40 for members (which included one beer and unlimited appetizers for every weekly session during the six week program), I actually met some people that I enjoy running with.

Regardless of the weather, which varied from so-cold-I’m-not-sure-I-should-leave-my-aparment to I-heart-long-sleeved-tees-and-shorts, these people were there. They stuck together through almost getting hit by cars, speeding up, slowing down, bitching about work, trying to forget about work, you name it. The best part is when no one is talking, but you know you’re keeping pace with someone and you’ll get to enjoy a beer with them in less than 45 minutes anyway. I ran six miles each week and spent almost no time getting myself motivated to do so. Plus, I learned about some new Irish pubs in the areas around my apartment and workplace, and some new routes.

I plan on keeping up with these people and utilizing them again to keep my running up. They’re just another example of what a great city this is, with young people always on the move and always friendly. I used to think of running as my “me time,” a place to get away from other people and get my head straight; now I’m realizing it can be a two-function hobby– both social and contemplative.

I don’t think there’s any quesiton that I’ll sign up for one of CARA’s Marathon training programs this summer. (That’s right, I’m officially registered for the Chicago Marathon 2008!) It’s just a question of how early I can wake up on Saturdays.

Thanks to all of Tuesday’s six-milers for all your awesomeness!

The run is over. Now what?

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