Morning Challenge

I was inspired by my group mate to go for a morning run outside. The weather was about low 50's at the start of the run. When I finished it was closer to mid 60's and the sun had begun rising. I forgot how beautiful my neighborhood is and getting reacquainted in the wee morning hours was inviting.

I also forgot how friendly morning joggers were. With so many smiles and friendly hello's it was almost, dare I write, exhausting.  I was doing pretty well until mile 2.4, when I note an older female jogger. She's maybe 30 feet away. I didn't wave, she didnt wave; we were deadlocked.  No matter, I keep it moving...

Oh but WAIT!  I hear a pitter patter on my heels. So were BOTH continuing onto the main trail. Interesting. This is my final mile and its at a slight incline. I give a quick over the shoulder glance. She's getting ready to pass on the outside.  No! No! No!  If I spotted her in the grocery store I couldn't live it down.  I speed up, she pursues, Cat and Mouse has officially begun. 

I hear her foot strike rate increasing.  Is she preparing for another attack? I go for the offensive. She keeps pace.  Damn, I'm thinking she's one of those master runners. I decide to really push this time. The crisp air is burning my lungs as I break into full speed. She gradually fades. Talk about a good morning!!

Distance: 3.5 Mi
Time: 28m 50s
Pace: 8.14 m/Mi