Race #25 – Running Virtually for Fleet Feet Mechanicsburg and so much more

We just need to have the perspective that canceling these races is for the greater good.
Des Linden, quoted this week in Women’s Running Magazine

Race #25 – Lucky Charm 5k / 10k, Harrisburg PA

The Cause – Sponsored by my local running store Fleet Feet Mechanicsburg, with race proceeds going to Girls on the Run and the Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District (the race was to have been in partnership with the HDID, to kick off the St. Patrick’s Day parade).

I was anticipating an amazing experience today, hitting the halfway point of my goal–race #25–at the 5th Annual Lucky Charm 10k surrounded by lots of friends from the Harrisburg running community and a festive race atmosphere.

Running has become even more of a therapy than usual during this pandemic. So it’s actually kind of ironic that “the cause” is my favorite, beloved local running store, which like many small businesses, is now shut down. Owners Shelby and Fred Joslyn have become dear friends and incredible leaders in the local running community. Their expertise, knowledge, friendship and support of the local running community via their shop, training programs and races is all invaluable.

Fleet Feet Mechanicsburg co-owner Fred Joslyn, a week ago

I’m sad that today’s race didn’t go on as planned. Instead, it was a virtual race and the next-best thing happened: It was fun to see lots of friends (virtually) and their assortment of “race photos” flooding my social media accounts.

My friend Crystal and I decided to get creative! Even though we ran in our respective neighborhoods, separately, we had fun putting our race photos together. There are very few friends who could influence me to wear a tutu for a race–but Crystal could–and vice versa!

My husband tried to make the “race” extra special for me by sending me off through the neighborhood with lots of cowbell… then by “awarding” me my race medals.

Running has always been a wonderful metaphor for life, and perhaps it’s even more so today given current events. I’m still committed to my upcoming causes, although many races are turning virtual or being postponed. Through it all, perspective is key.

Running is still an amazing gift we can all give ourselves, but beyond that… Running is still an amazing gift we can utilize to help others. Be well, run friends!