So last night I finally made it to Guero’s for the Nike Human Race training run! It was packed in the Guero’s annex, and the line was long to register. They say the run starts at 7:00, but we didn’t get going til 7:15 or so. I should preface the story I’m about to tell by saying that I loved the atmosphere and had a great time and want to go back.
BUT here’s my story: So I’ve mentioned that they have pacers for every minute 8-12, and then a sub-8:00 group. They send out the pace groups in waves, and they count how many people are going with each group to ensure that they don’t lose anyone. They sent the sub-8:00 group out first, and I walked out with them and stood in a semi-circle with four guys and the pacer. He counts the guy to my left, skips me, and counts the guy to my right. “Five,” he says to the girl keeping track. “Oh, I’m running with you guys,” I say, a little bit puzzled. “Oh, six,” he says and turns to start the run. I was completely blown away by that, and a bit baffled. Yes, I’m a girl, but women have been able to run as fast as men for many years now! Plus, we were just running sub-8:00s! I used to run 6-minute-miles in my cross country days. How is it possible that in this day and at this kind of training run, someone could be so close-minded as to think a woman couldn’t run a 7:40 mile?
I’ll have you know I finished right in the middle of our group, behind two guys and in front of two guys.
Aside from that incredibly sexist moment, the guys in my group were nice, fun to run with and talk to, and I enjoyed the post-run company (until I rushed off to Bikram yoga). The taco they give you is an enormous burrito, and the veggie includes actual veggies like zucchini and squash! It was delish. I didn’t stick around for the margarita, but I giggled as I walked out and a waiter was standing by the finish line with a tray of margaritas. Now that’s service!
I’d love to try the other runs, I bet they have the same laid-back but athletic vibe that makes running so much more enjoyable. Thursdays at SIX at 7pm and Saturdays at Starbucks at 8am!
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