Run for Justice 5K - First in my series on organizing 5K's

What drew me to the Run for Justice 5K was it's strong sponsor presence. Many local 5K's fall short in this area. This is something I want to emulate with my 5K. As a matter of fact, it's local nature concerned me at first. While, I knew it had a number of sponsors and was listed prominently on RunGeorgia.com, it was nestled in the Oakhurst neighborhood of Decatur, a beautiful, but small community. I don't know anybody there, would I get strange looks from a small group of local runners attending the event? Much to my surprise about 200 runners, kids, and dogs turned out to race among Oakhurst tree-lined streets.

 

I did not pre-register for the race so I had to that when I got on-site. It was a little confusing and I actually spent about 10 minutes in the pre-registered line before noticing the much shorter new registration line, further into the park area. It wasn't too big a deal and when I got to the front of the line I was greeted warmly.

 

The Run for Justice benefit Atlanta Legal Aid Society, an organization that has represented Atlanta's impoverished citizens in civil legal cases since 1924. Many of the participants were young, fit lawyers and young families. A large group of us moved from the meeting place/finish line to the start line.

 

Remember how I mentioned that dogs were a part of the group participating in this race, some people aren't going to like this, but this is why I think these noble animals and races don't mix:

 

1. When dogs have to go to the bathroom, it truly doesn't matter where they are at, how fast you are going, or, more importantly, who's in the path of their posterior. I'll leave it at that.
2. Dogs don't run in a linear path, as humans do, tripping and knocking stuff over is going to happen.

The course itself was gorgeous. Tree-lined streets, beautiful houses and greenery everywhere. It wasn't without its challenges. Two significant hills in the first mile got you going, but the hill at the end of mile two and the uphill finish burned the hell out of me. I was very happy to get out with my 25:23 and my cool long-sleeve t-shirt.

 

Overall, this was a great experience in a great setting. The staff and volunteers were very helpful. The course was great and it didn't hurt that the weather cooperated. I think they benefitted from their sponsorship and even though the promotion was light, the turnout was superb. I learned a great deal from this race and look forward to applying it to BMCF Fight 5K 2010.

 

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