Cisco’s 5k was my 1st official running event, the event that hooked me into running, eventually marking the beginning of an exciting road toward ultra-running events.

Cisco and the Cisco Life Connection team decided to hold the Harvest Spirit Week, hosting multiple activities, and this run on Wednesday.

Once again, it was great to see and run with many friends and co-workers. Another year for the InsaneRunning group to be present.

The warmup: At the InsaneRunning group space, there was some talk about making it into a double-day run, given that we always meet on Wednesday after work for an easy run with friends. Different from last year, I just did a 1-mile warm-up. Handling a knee issue that I am having difficulties figuring out, that mile felt a little bit tight and a little bit painful. But I was able to warm up and loosen up a bit by the end of the run.

Mile 1-2: Very uneventful miles. Not pressing the pace, smiling, and seeing so many great runners pushing their limits. Some were going smoothly, some heavy breathing, all part of a symphony of 5k effort. Around mile 1, there is a water station, but I did not grab water. The route is slightly different this year. A few additional loops in and out of the parking lot, given the new start area.

Mile 3-Finish: Last mile, and all is going well. Still felt okay; my knee was okay for the most part, pain just enough to let me know that it was there. It was a little bit slower than the previous years but fast compared to many of the training runs this year. Definitely very happy, even with the pain and finishing solid and with a smile.

Cool Down: Easy, uneventful 1-mile cool down. Got the chance to meet and talk to Stephen, another outstanding runner who came in 2nd in the event.

I am very thankful for the opportunity to run in events, to meet others, to have great friends in the running community, and to be able to help others, even if it is just listening to their life issues, things that they are proud of, their viewpoints and perspectives and most inspiring their stories of achievement.

Month/Year	Event	Location	Type	Time
Oct-23	Cisco 5k virtual	NC	5k	28:43

Event Highlight:

Course: The route has a very ample parking lot and then quickly turns into a narrow paved path and a few small hills.

Venue: The start/finish line, great music and food.

Expo: No Expo

Weather: Overcast, upper 60º with low humidity.

T1D: Sugars within running range at start. It remained steady and trended well all the way.

Fueling:

Pre-Race: Latte early morning.

Race: No water or fuel

Post: Normal lunch

Learning Points:

• Keeping the tradition going, great to see so many friends and coworkers.