#47 was the DAV 5K. Disabled American Veterans 5K. As expected, there are many veterans. There were lots of families running in memory or in honor of a loved one who served. Many runners were honoring a friend or family member with an additional bib. Many had KIA with a name. Took me awhile to figure out that it meant Killed In Action.
Many active soldiers participated running with packs on their backs. Each service member who ran received a different shirt with their branch of service on the back. I was in the Civilian category. Never have I felt so horribly out-of-shape.
The course starts at Yeatman's Cove down near the river. We run around the stadium, along the river near the ballpark and return to the finish near where we started.
Final mile of the race is lined with veterans from the veterans motorcycle brigade. All these guys (and some gals too) in heavy leather, long beards, and American flag patches all over. Holding out their hands to give high fives to the runners.
In extreme contrast to last weeks race, this race I was referred to to as "young lady" Hello there, young lady. Glad you came out today, miss. Nice run, miss.
I had a good run time....not my best, but it will do.
At every race thus far, there is a water stop or two. Immediately following each water stop, there is a trash can for the paper cups. At every single race, 75% of the participants throw the cup on the ground...missing the trash can entirely. At this race, there wasn't a stray cup anywhere. Maybe this group was more determined to get it in the container. Most likely it was the stern looking soldier guarding the can.
Closing in on the finish...#47 is done.
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