What You Missed at the .5k This Weekend

So you didn't make it out to the run this weekend? Well, you're going to want to make sure you make it next year, because you missed out on a LOT of fun...

Even if you're not a runner, you should have considered taking part in this event. I did. And I'm definitely NOT a runner. But it was one of the best things I got to be a part of and it all went to help out a good cause right in our community.

I'm talking about the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area's .5K run that took place this past Saturday. By the way, that's a "point-five-k," not a "five-k." We're talking about a couple hundred yards.

And it was the best run I could have ever participated in. I think you'll want to be a part of it next year.

Alright, so this is how it went...

At 9:30am, my fiance and I arrived on Varick Street in Utica to register for the run, get our runners' bibs, our commemorative ".5k" sticker, and our drink ticket. We all gathered at the back parking lot of the Saranac Brewery to get ready for the "race."

10am the run began! My fiance and I were in (about) fifth and sixth place for the beginning of the run.

About halfway through the run, there was a stop for donuts and coffee. Seriously, we must have ran jogged for about 30 seconds before we made it to the stop, and picked up our treats.

After that it was the final stretch - The last, like 200 yards to the finish line.

And we made it!

We headed into the Celtic Harp for the after party and our free drink for participating in the run.

Our final time was: 3min 37sec. Which isn't too bad, considering we stopped for a donut and coffee, and had to take a photo of our adventure.

There was still a prize for the winner, and many people did actually run the event. A lot of people though, just ran part of it or pretty much walked the whole thing. But the point of it wasn't about the running. It was about helping out a good cause - The United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area. It cost $20 to participate in the race, and all the money went to the United Way to help the one in four people in our community that use their resources.

Looks like a pretty fun time right?! Even through the rain and chilly weather. We hope to see you out there next year, whether you're a runner or not. You're sure to have a fun time. Plus, you get coffee, donuts, and beer out of it! And it's charity work. What more could you ask for??

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