When I originally thought about participating in this year’s Run Mama Run 5k/10k, somehow I envisioned a group of elite running mothers, filled to the brim with coffee, and NOS systems attached to their baby strollers. Ok, that’s a bit exaggerated, but you get the idea. In my mind, everyone would be out for yet another serious competition. I’m soooooo glad I was terribly wrong!
This was my first time being at Mt. Tabor (located in the SE Portland area), and BOY, have I been missing out! Everything I had heard from locals and fellow runners regarding this park was absolutely correct….it was beautiful. Trees, the sounds of blissful birds, and well-marked pathways immediately told me I was about to have a wonderful race..
I reached the park area where the race festivities were to begin, and to my relief, I saw mothers of all sizes and ages, discussing their excitement to walk their first 5k, to mothers nervous about running with a stroller around the parks steady inclines. I let out a huge sigh of relief because I knew I hadn’t brought my “A” game today, but as I looked around and smiled, I realized today wasn’t about bringing your “A” game. It was about being out with fellow mothers, runners and non-runners alike, children in tow, silently recognizing the difficulties that come with being a mother, as well as the immense joy that naturally comes with the territory….
Not to mention that every mother there knew EXACTLY what the mothers with young children likely went through that morning just to BE at the race, let alone run it! 🙂
A voice on a microphone told us it was time to line up. For about 5 minutes, participants were led through a fun series of light warm ups, and to my happy surprise, several mothers asked to lean on me while they tried some of the stretches! I, of course, was happy to help.
Untimed, and watch free, I ran through the start, feeling freed of the desire to constantly know my pace. What a feeling!!
Both 5k and 10k participants were told to run (or walk) to the summit, circle it, and head back down. 5k’ers only needed to reach the summit once, while the few 10k mothers needed to reach it twice. Smiling volunteers pointed the way at every turn, trail change, or confusing spot with encouragement and support. No one was getting lost today.
Enjoying the run and relaxation, I walked with one or two mom’s who appeared to be running out of steam near the end. Giving encouragement and praise to others when so many have encouraged me over the year was definitely one of the highlights of the day.
At the end of every lap, a team of the most adorable kids I have ever seen, in oversized t-shirts (adds to the cuteness, right!) would mark my arm to help me keep count of my laps. The first time they did this, I thought it was adorable, but unnecessary. At the next lap, I was glad they did! After stopping for photos, reflecting on the beautiful Portland skyline in the distance, and talking about our next race (and sometimes “Never again” race! lol) I had completely forgotten how many times I had lapped. This time, the kids knew best…
As the announcer read of my bib number on speaker, and congratulating me on finishing, I felt a nice sense of accomplishment. There were no medals. There were no crowds of adoring fans screaming your name at the end (not that I’ve ever experienced that, mind you!). There didn’t need to be. The happiness and “warrior” feeling I get at the end was still there.
……………..and so was the FOOD!! 😉
The volunteers did something I have never seen before, but was HIGHLY impressed with…. they kept kids and spectators away from the food until the mothers got theirs FIRST!!!! During the whole race! I had first dibs on pastries and fruit, without picking through either scraps or food with child size thumb prints on them. SCORE!
I can’t end this review without mentioning one very important thing. This race was not only coordinated, and directed by the loving volunteers at Adoption Mosaics, but proceeds from the race went to continue their efforts to provide educational resources and support to those whose lives are influenced by adoption. Thank you, Adoption Mosaics, for the great swag (they gave me a tech shirt AND knee-high pink moustache socks!!), the incredibly fun and relaxed running atmosphere, and the beautiful scenery to enjoy with my fellow mothers.