A time to run, a time to watch

Heads up, the first training run for the Wine Flight 5K is tomorrow (Tuesday). The calendar listing notes, "Each run finishes at a different restaurant or food-related business downtown, where you'll enjoy a nibble and a drink." It hasn't been decided who will be on hand to nibble the runners at the restaurant, but I've thrown my name into the list of prospects. [See the calendar listing for more details]

This run is a must-do in my opinion. No pressure to cross the finish line in under 22 minutes. As long as you cross it - preferably upright, but crawling will suffice - you can go home with triumph. Then Triumph and you can gnaw the Rolaids together or even cuddle up against the soothing coolness of your toilet's porcelain base.

It'll be worth it to participate, though. And I don't say that about every dang race that comes by. I believe whole-heartedly that some races are best experienced in the spectator position.

I'd guesstimate that most spectators along the course of a local 5K are friends/relatives/stalkers of an individual runner. They're there to support their buddy/daughter/future kidnap victim and give a hearty "Wooo! You can do it, [runner's name here]!" It's what supportive people do...so I'm told.

But sometimes it's worthwhile to spectate even if you don't know a soul in the running. Take this upcoming race, for example:

"The Mount Desert Island Marathon, voted Most Scenic in North America by ESPN, has created a new relay division open only to Maine police and fire department members. The MDI Marathon - Police & Fire Pursuit will feature teams which consist of five officers or fire fighters from the around the state. The winning police and fire departments will be crowned at the finish line."
[If you want more info on this race: www.mdimarathon.org or information@mdimarathon.org or 207 276 4226]

I mean, SOME people apparently enjoy watching firefighters. I've heard that, anyway. I personally don't really see what the appeal is. They're just doing their job - same as any plumber or tax man. Whatever the draw is, I'm sure not falling for it. Firefighters are nice and all but I don't...hold on. The firefighters are doing something outside...

...anyway, as I was saying, I...um...

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