RACE FOR RESEARCH

My one question when signing up for the Race for Research Half Marathon was what was it that they were researching and who were they?  After a few clicks with the computer's mouse, I soon learned that the race was being sponsored by the Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies.  The mission of Torrey Pines Institute is to pursue innovative research that leads to the understanding and treatment of major medical conditions, including multiple sclerosis, AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, pain, arthritis, heart disease, and many types of cancer.

Being blessed or downright lucky to have one of her work days switched with a co-worker, Janet was able to join me in running the first annual Race for Research located in the town of Tradition in the Port St. Lucie area of South Central Florida.  The town of Tradition is a relatively new area made up of mostly upscale homes (I refer to them as McMansions) and modern office buildings.   

Staying overnight with our good friend Tina and family in Vero Beach, we were only 35 miles north of the start and finish line – a quick 30 minute southbound drive on Interstate 95.  My new Garmin GPS eliminated any directional snafus to and from the race.

Picking up our race numbers, computer chips, race shirts and caps in the attractive air-conditioned lobby of the Torrey Pines Institute turned out to be effortless.  We were met with friendly professional volunteers at each step of the brief process.  The indoor bathrooms were spotless and the lines relatively short – a nice break from the traditional stench of outdoor Jiffy Johns and their customary long lines.

A minute or two after a chilled spectator sang our National Anthem, 228 eager runners began their trek through many of the outlying streets of Tradition.  The temperature at the beginning of the race was 54 degrees with a steady breeze coming from the northwest.

The course, nearly all 13.1 miles of it, was run on remote divided roadways that separated several stylish gated communities.  The roads were well maintained, purposely manicured, spotless, and they lacked the typical scattered litter seen in and around most communities.

 
The course also lacked Jiffy Johns, prompting many runners and walkers to eliminate within the hidden confines of the many manicured shrubs and trees.  Janet and I gathered that the town of Tradition and their persnickety residents did not wish to have unattractive, smelly outhouses placed at optimal positions in their town – not even for one day or a few hours.  

Because of their questionable decision, I personally watered and fertilized one budding tropical plant and one medium-sized tree.  Because I’m an obsessive green horticulturist, I was pleased to assist with the growth of the plant and tree.  

Turning from chilly to downright warm, the last couple/three miles became somewhat excruciating – relatively speaking, that is.  We’ve participated in running events where one might feel as if they’ve been casts into the lake of fire.  This past Saturday’s event was not that bad. 

All in all, Janet and I found the course to be extremely isolated and boring – but exceptionally beautiful and impeccably maintained.  Kudos to the wealthy Town of Tradition and their residents!     

Mostly walking with an occasional jog, Janet and I finished around the time (3:08) we expected to finish.  We both were having minor physical issues, so we kept our running to a minimum – a wise decision to prevent further discomfort and/or injury.    

Bringing along my small digital camera in one of my Race Ready pockets, I stopped along the course and took many pictures of interest.  That’s not to say that Jan and I are interesting subjects, but walking in the back of the pack basically kept us apart from the speedier and more interesting runners.

 

After downing a couple of cookies at the finish line, we hopped in our Explorer and drove the 35 miles back to Vero Beach, stopping first for breakfast at IHOP before arriving back at Tina’s beautiful home.  Those harvest grain pancakes sure did taste good after power walking 13.1 miles – and the hot shower at Tina’s was rejuvenating before enduring the two-hour drive back to our home in South Florida.  

Janet and I would love to participate in this running event again next year for two distinct reasons – a repeat visit with Tina and family and to have another opportunity to power-walk for a good cause - molecular research.