Glaze of Glory

Yesterday, some friends and I took on the Krispy Kreme Challenge again since we didn't get enough last year. Actually, the event is so much fun - how could we resist?! The event sold out with 6000 registered runners and again donates it's proceeds to the UNC Children's Hospital in Chapel Hill.

Just like last year, I am suffering from a cold so my physical energy level was low for the race. Unlike last year, the weather was colder than normal for Raleigh in February with race temps in the low 30's and a cloudy overcast sky with rain or sleet threatening. Despite the colder temps, runners came in a host of silly costumes or lacking clothing all together. We saw people dressed as bananas, tacos, Elvis, in body paint, in underroos and even as a donut. I think there were even more speedo clad runners this year than last; it was way too cold for that.

My friend Jennefer and I ran together again but we pushed the pace this time despite my cold. Since I have been running over the winter, 4 miles should be no problem even in my condition. The hills of the race are significant and I was reminded constantly through the race. At the half way point, the organization was considerably better than last year. We each grabbed a box, I ate 1 donut - yes just 1 than we tucked our boxes under our arms like a running back with the ball and headed back to the finish.

We both maintained our pace and finished in the neighborhood of 44 minutes. I stepped off course and up the hill to touch the NC State bell tower. I recall the finish must include touching the tower even though this year, the finish was down on Hillsborough St. We hung around for a bit, met up with friends and watched the crowds come across at the finish. It seemed that a lot of people chose not to take on the actual eating challenge since so many others also toted their donuts to the finish.

With another successful event completed, I headed over to a nearby cafe for a proper breakfast of coffee, biscuits with sausage gravy and set my sites on getting healthy in time to run the Myrtle Beach 1/2 Marathon next weekend.

I didn't see ESPN filming this year but I did find this cool time lapsed video that someone posted on YouTube of the event.