Hark-ALS 5-K Run

      In my recovery from a torn meniscus, I planned a late winter race to test the knee and the other aching parts in my 56-year old body. I found the Ron For T.W.O 5-K at Monmouth University in West , March 29th.
        The race is in memory of Thomas W. Ohlsen (T.W.O.), a decorated veteran who died from the effects of ALS, a/k/a Lou Gehrig's disease. The charity involved is called Hark-ALS and can be accessed at Hark-als.org. The Phi Sigma Sigma sorority served as race volunteers.
   I took two Advil in the morning to help, and the day was brisk (mid 30's) and windy, but sunny and exhilarating after a miserable winter in New Jersey.
    Also, if there is terrain I'm familiar with, it's the Monmouth campus. After running there for three years and coaching for another two, I spent countless afternoons in oxygen debt around Norwood, Park, Larchwood and Cedar Avenues surrounding the campus. The race took place exactly on those streets, as well as a loop around the center of campus for the final half-mile.
   The crowd was small, and, frankly, most of the male runners were my age or older. I was fortunate to win the race in (a very pedestrian) 21:55. I last won a race two years ago in another local race in Bridgewater, and really didn't expect to win another. The fact I did filled me with gratitude that I'm still able to pursue this hobby/vocation in some competitive form.
   Whether it's because I won the event, or the fact my knees are finally starting to mend, my training runs this week are finally back to my pre-injury times. I am happy and grateful for that. I'd love to be back in the mid 20-minute range this summer, but also have to accept each year brings more injury baggage, creakier joints, and (let's face it) declining oxygen load capacity.
     While the race was a bit under the radar this year, plans are to make it a larger event next year. I hope to be back!