The Penguin Chronicles : 2008 : August

Previous Next

The Chicago Distance Classic

Posted by John -the Penguin- Bingham Aug 11, 2008

WOW. What a day.

August in Chicago is HOT, HOT, HOT. Historically, the Sunday of the Chicago Distance Classic has been one of the hottest days of the summer. But this year we, the organizers and the participants, got lucky and we had one of the most beautiful days of the summer. The temperature was 64 degrees at race start.

With registrations topping 11,000 we decided to use an "honor system" wave start. All-in-all in went well. We did have a bit a confusion because the waves weren't exactly defined, but everyone was patient and cooperated. The result was a safer, faster, race course for everyone.

One of the best parts of the day was seeing so many charities represented. We really focused on increasing charity participation and in paid off. We had over 35 charities out there with well over 2,000 participants.

But, the real congratulations goes to the City of Chicago and the various agencies that make the city work. We had wonderful partners in the Chicago Police, Chicago Fire Department, Office of Emergency Management and Communications, Park District, and more. Our thanks to everyone who helped make it a special day for everyone.

John

1,121 Views 10 Comments Permalink Tags: running, chicago, walking, runners, penguin, bingham, distance, classic

And now for something completely different

Posted by John -the Penguin- Bingham Aug 4, 2008

If you look REAL closely, you can see a deer just up the trail from me.

With the Chicago Distance Classic just a week away i was in desparate need for some peace and quiet. I needed someplace - and something - that would give my brain a break from thinking about registration numbers, porta-potties, and medal lanyards.

Because running is both a profession and a passion, when I need to clear my head I'll often do something OTHER than run. I'll head out for a half-day on the motorcycle or, in this case, grab the moutain bike and ride the trails near Willow Springs.

I know that it's called "cross-training", but for me - especially when I need a break - it's not training at all. It's riding my bike. It's being 12 years-old again and going for a bike ride. No pressure. No goal. No expectation. A ride. Pure and simple.

And having to stop for a deer makes it all the more special. It's a great reminder that there is a world out there that I can choose to be a part of, or apart from. Yesterday, i was a part of. And THAT was good.

Waddle on,

John