A Christmas Story!

I am a huge fan of the movie, "A Christmas Story." When a friend forwarded me a link to the first annual Christmas Story run in Cleveland, I couldn't stop thinking about it. I don't usually travel out of my tri-state area for races, but I needed to make an exception for this one.

I asked my husband if he would like to go away with me for the weekend. After he said, "Yes!" I told him we were going to Cleveland in December and that I would be running on Saturday morning. He is a good sport, and even used his frequent flyer miles to buy our tickets.

5K/10K starting corral...almost 5,000 runners!

Despite the 27°F temperature (possibly colder), there was a festive feeling in the air as the race kicked off. There were many, many costumes...lots relating to the movie and many just Christmas-themed. I ran the 10K as the beleaguered mom, in an apron and cardigan. I only saw two others wearing this costume, one of whom ran the 5K holding a giant inflatable turkey. She was committed!

5K runners finished by Ralphie's house (10K turnaround)

The ground was pretty icy, and we ran across a bridge, which was windy, but this was a thrilling run and there were lots of spectators to keep us going.

Happy to be out of the cold!

I race mostly for the bling, and this particular race medal was a must-have for me. It says "It's a Major Award!" Indeed it is.