So I decided to take a hiatus on using other people’s words to start this entry.

Since I had last updated, I had decided to do something I never would have dreamed of doing, never mind thought about doing… I participated in a 5K.
5,000 Kilometers.
3.1 miles.
15,840 feet.

Of all the terms I associated with the run prior to the actual day, “fun” and “worthwhile” were certainly not in the mix. No, “Crazy” and “Horrible” and “Disaster” dominated the thought processes. I arrived at downtown Tampa at 7:30 in the morning, after de-icing my car for the one time a year I actually have to do that in Florida, and make my way over to the Convention Center. At 9, I was registered, and ready. IPod battery full, cell phone off, valuables checked at the runner check-baggage place. I was ready.

The race itself was awesome. A hint of advice: Do not underestimate Marty. He was able to run when I was still gasping for air. He stayed with me throughout the course, and was awesome, keeping spirits high throughout the race. I also had the pleasure of meeting “Bucified”, a very energetic Buccaneers fan who also ran the race. After the race, I went home, thinking my time was at an hour and two minutes, two minutes over my goal. I failed to realize that I did not start at 0:01, like the clock did. My final start-to-finish time: 58:52. I did it. Beat my own goal. Thanks to Marty (Both of them, my teammate and the head of this challenge), and Bucified, and to everybody cheering us on…

Sadly, I will not be participating in the stair climb this weekend, as I have an interview with a job that I hope to obtain next Fall. Best of luck to my teammatess, and have a great couple of days, everyone!

-Dan