I am attending a conference near Wash DC and they held a 5k as part of the event. The race ran right along the Potomac River. I had no idea what the competition was, but figured that amongst a bunch of nerdy accountants like myself I could stack up pretty well. Although I thought there would be some young bucks that would take the day. I warmed up for about two miles really easy with some strides. Lisa (my wife) cheered for me and the race started. I ran with the leader for the first 3/4 mile and then he faded and I found myself in the lead. I thought that was weird. Then the race director caught up with me. I told him that I was not supposed to be at the front. He passed me to make to feel more at home and at the halfway point I was about 5 yards behind him. It was an out and back so I saw a couple of my friends (Paul Clark and Eric Anderson) not far behind on the return trip. I followed the race director and he increased his lead on me, but turned around occasionally to cheer me on. I wondered if he was going to drop out or if he was going to win, but I supposed him to be my escort and felt the rush as if I was the leader. Coming in to the finish he crossed the line first, Lisa cheered again and it was my turn (9 seconds behind). Not the fastest 5k ever, but it was very hot. Definately my highest placement in a race. Paul came in 3rd and Eric came in 5th amongst about 200 that raced. I have to say that for once I was glad to be an accountant and take 2nd in the "tallest midget competition!" | 