
Even though this is an event I've missed out on two years in a row, I've seen how much fun it is through the eyes of fellow runners. For 2013 I hooked up two of my friends and encouraged them to run the race together. Anne, who you'll recognize from previous race recaps including the NOLA Trail Run Series, jumped on the running bandwagon and is training for her first half marathon in the fall/winter. Emmeline; on the other hand, is a major NFL fan, but enjoys her toenails too much to ever think about taking on distance running. This was the first organized event she's run since I've known her, though she is out at all of my New Orleans marathons cheering in support. Pairing the two of them up for this race was a match made in football heaven, and I was able to experience the
morning vicariously through them.

I've since talked to both Anne and Emmeline about the Saints Back to Football 5K and both gave great reviews about the event. The course started in Champions Square next to the Mercedes Benz Superdome, ran an out-and-back on Poydras street through the New Orleans Central Business District, followed by a loop around the stadium and finishing inside on the 50 yard line of the field. There was one water stop midway through the course, and plenty of runners and supporters out to enjoy the day. They even got some pretty great New Orleans Saints themed shirts, the new NFL approved clear plastic game day bags, and medals at the finish line.
I wouldn't trade in my weekend in Anaheim for anything, but I'm jealous that these two ladies got to run a race without me. The texts from later in the day informing me that they were needing someone to refill their post-race mimosas was slightly satisfying. It let me know that I was missed.
The Saints 5k was definetly a fun race!
ReplyDeleteYes it certainly looks like it, Nicole. Your recap was great as well. People should check it out here: http://ndeckerrunner.wordpress.com/2013/09/02/a-family-finish-at-the-nfl-saints-5k/
Deleteawwww. Thanks Fred :)
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