You know those perfect running mornings? When the mist is coming in, the winds are low, and the cloud cover is moderate. I love running in this type of weather. It was a perfect day to head out to Richardson Park in Eugene to participate in the GloryBee Save the Bee 5K, which ran for the second time on April 23, 2016. This race will secure a spot on my yearly “must do” list.
The Save the Bee 5K is a fundraising running and walking event for Save the Bee. Here is a snippet about the program –
In 2012, GloryBee® launched its social program to directly support organizations dedicated to saving the honey bee and combating colony collapse issues. Co-founder Richard Turanski started GloryBee Honey in 1975 due to his love of bees and his role as an active beekeeper. With the concern of declining bee populations throughout the world, GloryBee advances the SAVE THE BEE mission through fundraising and education.
Parking and packet pick-up was quick, simple and easy. I always appreciate that! Covered picnic shelters were available to keep participants out of the mist and dry. There were organizations on site discussing bee stewardship, and well as a mini-expo to check out prior to, or after, the event. Also, a costume contest took place prior to the race with prizes to the top three costume winners after the event. And, an awesome “selfie” booth was set-up so participants could get silly and have fun, while taking home a souvenir picture.
At 9:30 a.m., the kids race took place. The kids race was separated into to age group divisions. Kids 6 and under went first, and zoomed down a paved path to collect ‘pollen’ to bring back to the finish line to simulate the bees pollinating. It was super cute. Kids over 7 then participated in a similar event, which went just a tad bit longer of a distance.
At 10 a.m., the 5K runners and walkers lined up and took to the beautiful paved paths through Richardson Park, and along the Fern Ridge Lake. I have never ran through this area previously, so it was 100% new. I loved it! I will be back to run this course in the future!
The 5K was an out-and-back, traveling along the lake. It was spectacular running along the lake, feeling the mist and breeze drifting off the water, keeping everyone cool.
At approximately the 1.6 mile point, there was an aid station set-up offering water. Huge bonus points to the event organizers for having this aid station! Also, even bigger bonus points to the organizers for filling the course with energetic, encouraging and enthusiastic volunteers. These volunteers kept everyone on course, and made it simple to follow the course and stay on track.
After winding through the tree covered camp ground, we ran back along the lake to the finish line. Zipping into the finish line, there was a lot of buzz and energy, which was great! The post-event refreshments were staged in the covered shelter area, and featured water, chocolate milk (!!!!! yay !!!!!), peanut butter sandwiches, fruits, granola and a lovely fruit and nut mix that was amazing.
Save the Bee 5K was a fantastic event. As I said above, I am putting this race on my 2017 race calendar, and look forward to participating in the third annual event next year!
