Birmingham Zoo Run

This past weekend I participated in my 5th race this year, the Birmingham Zoo Run. The weather conditions were not ideal, as it was exceptionally humid and overcast, but, then again, I’m accustomed to racing in less-than-stellar weather. Much of the course was within the zoo grounds, so I got to see (and smell!) the camels, plus catch a glimpse at some tropical birds. No gorillas though:(CIMG7736

I clocked in at 24:43–at least I’m consistent, right? I came in 4th for my age group (again). I really want to break this “4th place” trend because typically, the top three finishers in each age group receive awards/recognition. I am not too bummed though because I don’t race for tangible rewards; I race because I enjoy the sense of strength it provides me:)

My sister Lea and her husband Ryan also participated in the race, so it was quite the family affair. Ryan completed his first marathon last February and is preparing for the Chicago Marathon in October–yeah, he’s a bit more of an advanced runner than I am. Nonetheless, he kindly ran at my pace so I had a running buddy throughout the course. Thanks, Ry! Lea crossed the finish line just a few minutes after we did.

A few pics, courtesy Daddio:CIMG7672CIMG7674

and they're off! I'm the one in pink shorts fiddling with her iPod.

and they're off! I'm the one in pink shorts fiddling with her iPod.

Dad's photography skills at their best (I'm behind the pole)

Dad's photography skills at their best (I'm behind the pole)

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(sweaty) sisterly love

(sweaty) sisterly love

Ryan the rhino scaring the civilians.

Ryan the rhino scaring the civilians.

Sadly, this may be my last race this season due to the unbearably hot weather that arrives in Alabama every June. I’ll be ready for some more in the fall. I see 10Ks on the horizon…

14 Responses to “Birmingham Zoo Run”

  1. Great job on the 5K! It looks like it was really fun, and the T-shirt is crazy cute!! Running with family must be a blast (but my siblings outpace me by miles, it sucks!).

    Races in scorching weather do not sound good, but at least early morning runs will be perfectly temperate! :)

  2. Great job on the race! I love the race shirt, it’s adorable! One of the cutest ones I’ve seen. It looks like you all had a lot of fun :D

  3. yay congrats on the race :)

  4. Congrats on the great race!!! I hear you on hot weather though…outdoor exercise becomes nearly impossible here in FL during the Summer!

  5. yeah girl! good job on the race! how fun that it was at the zoo.. how neat! that is good time, no matter what place it took. looks like you had a blast!

  6. 5th race, 10kms, you go girl!

  7. Caroline,

    Great race! Your time is still awesome. I’m still in awe that you were able to run in that weather. Come summer my sneaks only hit the treadmill with the air conditioning!

    Got to love the Zesty Cook shirt!

    With Love,

    Emily

  8. eeee that is a super cute picture right there at the end!!! LOVE it!! so cute!! :D

  9. congrats on the race! looks like it was a fun one!

  10. you did a fabulous job~ well, a break this summer would be good…you can practice (in the early morning or evening without the blazing sun) for another great butt-busting race in the fall!

  11. Congrats on the race!
    Love the picture with the rhino hilarious!

  12. Congrats on finishing your 5th race! That’s so awesome.

    I love the sweaty, sisterly love!

    -the dulcinator

  13. Awesome race! We had a run here in our Zoo earlier this month but I missed it because I was already committed to a charity walk that day, but not next year! I hear you, my last 5K will likely be June 20th. Its already in the high 80′s here in Kentucky so its a comin’! Have a great weekend.

  14. [...] on the past four months of relaxation. This summer will surely be one to remember: In May I ran for the orangutans, and made my video debut. June brought a new tonight show host, along with a day of berry-picking. [...]

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