Twilight Rock N Roll 5-K

Race Director Derek Taylor and the Rotary Club of Highlands put on another excellent race this year.  I did not run the inaugural Twilight Rock N Roll 5-K last year, much to my regret, but I understand it was a good one despite rainy weather that would have discouraged the casual runner.  But this year the weather cooperated, and although it was a little warmer than most of us expected (high 70s), it was still cooler than most places in the area.  I ran a slower time than expected (and so did several others I spoke to), but in warm weather the wise runner dials back expectations and merely struggles to the finish line.  Moreover, this was the first really fast event I have done since a 5-K in Edenton - all of my miles lately have been long and slow and steep.  

I was glad that our Mayor, who just started running a couple of years ago, had such a good race, taking first place in my age group.  That's a good example to set.  And it was so great to see a race of this size and caliber in Highlands! - about 250 runners and walkers, more than I was ever able to attract during the many years I directed the Highlands PTO 5-K and then the Mountain Lakes 5-K.  There were also many families with children, and our burgeoning Cross Country team as well.  With a rock and roll band and free beer at the finish line, it seemed almost as if we were no longer in Highlands.  There I was, after my race and my cool-down, sipping a tasty lager courtesy of The Ugly Dog Public House, watching friends cross the finish line on Pine Street!  A truly wonderful evening.