Race report - Encinitas 5K

I ran a 5k in Encinitas this morning. I saw it on the calendar and realized that running it would give me at least SOME idea of what kind of pace I should shoot for in the 10k on June 13. After having a leg problem early in the race, I pulled to the side of the road to stretch my left hamstring and calf. I did this a couple more times and considered dropping out to avoid any actual injury that might interfere with the 10k next month. Then I remembered that I had to return the timing chip that was attached to my shoe. So, I rejoined the race, accompanied at this point by an assortment of body types and sizes, many pushing baby strollers, shopping carts, or small pianos, it seemed. During the final half mile, I searched in vain for the guy handing out paper bags for anonymous finishes, and then realized a head bag was unecessary since there was NO chance I'd be recognized by anybody there. I managed to finish in 24:39, which was slower than my somewhat delusional expectations, but at least I wasn't last in my age group like I always am in swimming races. And I didn't hear any spectators cry out, "Mommy, is that man OKAY?" It's good to be easily pleased.