Featured Running Event of The Week - Superhero Fun Run 5k

Although this is Monday, this is definitely a throw-back post.  One of my very first races ever - The Superhero Fun Run 5k in LaPorte, IN.

The race benefited CASA, which supports advocacy efforts for children in foster care.  The St. John Lutheran Church was the host of the event.

I ran this race back in 2013, and it was in August.  Obvious from the name of the event, it was Superhero related.  Participants were encouraged (but not required) to dress up as a Superhero.  I'd say about 75% of the participants dressed up.  Costumes ranged from simple t-shirts to full-on 3-D costumes, which were probably not easy to run in.  There was Wonder Woman, The Hulk, TV-Batman, Movie-Batman, Superman, Supergirl, Batgirl, The Thing, and many others that I no longer recall.

Although it was billed as a "fun run" - which usually means "not timed" - it was timed for those who are interested in that.  There were some very fast runners, finishing in under 20 minutes, and there were plenty of walkers, finishing closer to 60 minutes.  The point though, it was fun.  One of the faster runners was dressed in a full Hulk costume, complete with the muscles and everything.

The race was an out-and-back on neighborhood streets.  Starting just outside the church and ending in the parking lot.  There was also a costume contest following the race - for groups and individuals.

The most memorable part of the event were the number of people sitting on their porches cheering on the participants.  Being one of my first runs, this was something new to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the motivation.

But, the very best part, was this one house, with a boy, probably 4 years old or under.  As each runner past he would yell out "Hi Superman" or "Hi Hulk" or whoever it happened to be.  If that isn't motivation - I don't know what is.  And man, did he get a kick out of it when the participants would wave back.  I distinctly remember hearing him say "Mom, Superman waved to me!!!"

This was one of the races that made me want to run more.  A great event!