At the end of 2024, my children discussed their racing ambitions for 2025, bringing a smile to my face. Perhaps they had overheard my conversation with my coach about planning my race schedule for the upcoming year.
Brindsley expressed his desire to run a half marathon, and I fully supported his enthusiasm. He loves to run, and I can see the joy it brings him. We decided to sign up for the Syracuse Half Marathon together. When I asked if he wanted me to run alongside him, his resounding ‘yes’ filled me with anticipation.
Yesterday marked our first race of 2025, and I was thrilled to stand at the starting line with my son. The plan was to pace Brindsley the entire race with the hope of finishing together, though this mama knew when it came down to the last stretch, I would need to change gears if I was planning on crossing the line with him.
Despite the cold 20-degree temperature, the bright sunshine created perfect running conditions. We huddled at the start line, jumping and moving to stay warm. Brindsley was all smiles as he looked around at all the runners.
The race began promptly—I don't recall hearing a starting gun or command, but the crowd of runners simply began moving forward. Brindsley and I ran side by side up James Street's steady incline.
"Is there a downhill soon?" he asked.
"It's soon," I assured him, hoping I was right.
Spectators lined the entire route, cheering and holding signs. When we finally crested James Street, we were rewarded with a glorious downhill stretch—a runner's delight.
Two miles in, Brindsley looked strong, and I was finally regaining feeling in my fingers, grateful for the sunshine.
As we turned right onto Shotwell Park, I heard someone call out, “Go, Julie and Brindsley!”
I turned to see my friend waving a sign. What a wonderful surprise! She ran ahead to capture photos of us—both beaming with joy.
Around the four-mile mark, I checked in with Brindsley. "How's the pace?"
"It's good, I feel good," he replied. "I wonder who's going to win?"
I laughed, passing him a hydration flask while taking a sip from my own. I didn’t want to forget to keep us hydrated. As he passed the flask back to me, his breathing was steady and relaxed. Brindsley's smooth stride and relaxed expression confirmed he was thriving at our current pace.
At mile six, the distinct sound of a cowbell caught our attention. Looking left, I spotted my daughter Delaney ringing it while Jeff shouted our names. Their enthusiastic cheers were met with smiles and waves from both Brindsley and me.
I couldn't stop smiling, feeling incredibly fortunate to share this passion for running with my son.
TBC…see you on Thursday for the second half of the race.
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Faces filled with fun
A friend salutes your efforts
To be continued
Brindsley has caught the running bug! I feel you were both pleased Jeff was there, documenting the exploits of wife and son. Do faces have to remain exposed throughout such a race? To ward off a switch a-roo at a port-a-let? Winning at all costs.
What a great race to share with your son!