I run a lot of races each year and while I enjoy them all to a certain degree, only a few hold a special spot on my heart and demand a repeat.  I must say that the “Race of the
Dead” which is officially called the Uno 5K Carrera de los Muertos is one which I have been anticipating for well over a year.  And it did not disappoint. 

This is a themed race for a local community to celebrate the passing of loved ones.  There was an alter, or memorial site, to honor those who passed, plus lots of costumes, painted faces, etc. to make it a full celebration rather than just a memorial atmosphere.  So much fun!  Seriously. 

I’ve heard from previous year’s participants that both the shirts and the age group awards are “one of a kind” and to be honest, I didn’t sign up for a shirt.  I really wanted a hand painted/crafted skull that the local art department creates for each year’s age group awards.  After looking at the past results, I knew that it would be “almost” impossible to win one but that didn’t stop me from trying.  At some point, EVERYONE will have a perfect race.  Who knows, today could be that day?

Swag on the left, including an amazing gender specific tech shirt which is super cool, bonus in that it actually fits!  The back of the shirt and the 2013 age group awards are on the right.

I knew I needed to be in the 21s, probably a 21:30 finish {at the slowest} to even have a shot at the third place award in my division (35-39 women).  Well, the third place lady in my AG took it with a 21:30 but that wasn’t me!  I was almost 2 minutes behind her and that put me in 6th place.  🙂

No worries, I’m not upset.  I’m not injured.  I did start a bit too far back, even with the chip timing.  I found my pace group sign and stood there awaiting the start, thinking that the people in front of me would run faster than me.  They did not.  It was a community/neighborhood event and well, the community started in front of me without concern about pace, or time.  It surprised me a bit and I did my best to be polite as I attempted to squeeze thru every crack I could find; however, I never really got in a rhythm due the crowds.  It thinned out at the half way point but I failed to rally back and increase my pace.  I actually slowed down much to my dismay in that third mile.

Regardless, the entire race was awesome.  Lots of on course entertainment.  And I do mean a lot.  I was focused on getting thru the crowds but the entertainment and cheering crowds were constantly garnering my attention and that’s super cool.    Lots of costumed runners, which I absolutely LOVE.   Lots of community spirit.  One aid station at the half way point.  Lots of potties at the start/finish area.  Massive block party style “after party” with a band, food from community vendors and a few other vendors on site.  Really good time.  Really fun atmosphere.  Great event for the entire family.  I can’t wait to go back next year and try to put myself in a better position to snag an AG award!!  A few photos of the after party below.

My girl, Nicki, & I after the race (on the left).  We tried to dress for the race theme in our Spandits “Skull” pants & she added a few “day of the dead” tats for decoration!  And our “babies” (on the right) went to see all the costumes be our support crew.

Great day.  Perfect race weather.  Amazing neighborhood race.  I hope to be able to go back next year because it’s honestly one of the most fun non Shamrock Shuffle, non Chicago Marathon races I’ve ran in our area.  I’d highly recommend your giving it a try in 2014!

** Run Fast & Have Fun ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **