Get "Foot Loose" on Route 67 on a Monday Morning

Well last week you learned that the Rock Hopper Penguin symbolizes the every person nature of the Memorial Day Freedom Run/Walk.  We can all waddle along 67 to the finish line.

So it's your first time? Relax. Calm down. Take it easy. You can do this.  You'll need relatively good shoes and comfortable light clothes, some mental and physical preparation, and logistical planning.

As for the shoes, depending on which event you intend to try they should be walking or running shoes.  If you are participating in the two mile walk, your most comfortable sneakers or running shoes will do.  If you want to do the 5K, running shoes that are comfortable and sturdy are a must. (We have had participants who have worn basketball sneakers or no shoes, but my heels hurt just typing this.) I like to add soft cushioned socks, but some runners and walkers wear none.

As for the clothing, hopefully Memorial Day is sunny and cool.  Regardless of the temperature and conditions though, most runners wear a t-shirt and light weight shorts.  If you are walking, you can wear the same or dress warmer or in rain gear depending on the day.  Some walkers have even brought along umbrellas. (YES, IN CASE YOU ARE WONDERING, THE RACE/WALK OCCURS REGARDLESS OF WEATHER CONDITIONS.  REMEMBER IT NEVER RAINS IN OXFORD.)

Now about that mental and physical preparation:  First, mentally you need to commit to do this.  Promise yourself that you will walk or run.  Remember the Penguin.  You are not too young, old, heavy, light, inexperienced, clumsy, tall, short, or furry. (Yes, pets can walk with their owners so long as they are leashed and start behind the walkers.)  It would help the event committee and yourself to register now for the race.  You can do it on line: www.fasttracktiming.com. Besides, if you register early and pick up your packet before the race you will difinitely get a t-shirt and a goody bag. 

So once you have paid the entry fee, you should try to walk or run the distance before the race. You have two to three weeks to get ready. Pay attention to how you feel at distance intervals. Check your time. This will help you feel confident on race/walk day.

Finally, calendar the time and date: 8:00 AM MONDAY, MEMORIAL DAY, MAY 27TH.  Now think of how you will get there (OXFORD TOWN HALL). If you are driving, you can park behind town hall or at Oxford Center School. (Usually, the owner of the bus company north of town hall also allows parking. Check for the sign.)  Allow yourself enough time to complete registration, get your electronically monitored race number, and get oriented.  The half hour before the event is hectic, but fun. If you are inclined you can size up the competition.  Be careful of the Penguin though; she has a real set of wheels.

If you have entered a family member in the Rock Hopper Fun Run, at 8 AM the Penguin will start exercises for the children.  Shortly after that, she'll lead the children in a run down Route 67 to Oxford Center School and back.  The children receive random numbers and finish by running through their own finish line.  A clock displays their times as they cross the finish line.  They then get dog tags placed on them by veterans in uniform.  After that it is time for ice cream. 

Ice cream for the children that is.  Your run/walk is about to begin.  No you cannot have ice cream before you start.  I told you, you needed to get mentally prepared for this race.  Now just do it!