Dave's 5K

Hey All, the half marathon is only 2 weeks off. A while ago my daughter said, "You know what's after a half marathon don't you dad?" To which I replied, "I know what's not after a half marathon." I'm seeing that long distance running is not going to be my lifestyle, at least not in 2009. I am really struggling to do this half, I can't even imagine thinking about a whole.

So... what is my plan for 2009? I've got a crazy idea and I'd like to see if you're up for it. I'll call it Pastor Dave's 5K. In 2009 I plan to run a 5K race each month. My goal will be to find an area run that is designed to benefit a good cause; get as many church members to join me as possible; and make it our goal to get healthy, become a presence in the area as a church that is all about mind/body/spirit health, and support some great causes.

OK, what about you? How can you get involved?
Referral: Tell me about your favorite cause and when they're hosting a race fundraiser. I'll try to put it on the schedule. I'm already looking for a January run/walk, any thoughts? (Here's the kicker, no Sunday races. That makes it more difficult than you might think.)
Sponsor: Many of these races require sponsorships. I plan on fronting my own money for entry fees, but I'll be needing sponsorships for some. I'll keep you posted on those.
Participate: At a leisurely pace you can walk 3.1 miles (5K) in about 1 hour and 15 minutes (2 1/2 mph.) I can run it in about 33 minutes right now. (About 5.6 mph, which is an "easy" pace for runners.) We can all do this. I would love to see 100 Good Shepherd people at these races. We'll get t-shirts with a church logo for our team. (And you usually get a t-shirt for your race participation.

I'm excited about this. It will be fun, promote health, and be a great activity for our church to promote Christian fellowship while aiding some great charities.

What do you think? Are you in?