Why Do I Find 5Ks Enjoyable?

This happened to me last week, while running the Quarryman Challenge 5K in Lemont.

I was finishing a 5k which involved a nearly 150 ft elevation change from start to finish. By far my biggest challenge to date. It was the final 1/4 mile, and though I was still running, my pace had significantly slowed.

I heard footsteps catching up, so I moved to the right, and I hear “Come on young one, finish strong” from behind me. The runner catches up to me, and he had to be at least 65 (and in great physical shape) and as he gets next to me he says “Come on, finish strong, run with me.” So, I picked up my pace and was running his pace, then he said “Come on, go now, don’t let an old man beat you – go!” So, I went, I thought I had nothing left, but I pushed. As I started to pull away I heard him say “There you go – push it – finish strong”. And I ended up finishing with a 36:26 (near my average flat course time).

I waited for him at the finish – he was probably less than 30 seconds behind, not sure. Anyhow, after he crossed I went up and shook his hand and said “Thank you sir, you really helped me out!”
And he said “You’re welcome - Isn’t that what it’s all about?”

And that completely explains why I enjoy running 5Ks – it’s because I am surrounded by people like that the entire time!