I ran the 10k Sweater Weather run in Canmore last weekend. Just as the name suggests, it’s a fun run wearing your favourite fall sweater. Since I don’t want to run in any of my good sweaters and wasn’t about to buy one to wear once, I wore an old Oilers jersey.
A few weeks ago, I was feeling spontaneous so I signed up. Not even sure how I found out about this race as it’s only the second year running. Normally I don’t do short races like this because they don’t fit into my training or the high registration fees can be to justify. But I was feeling a little blah and needed something to boost my running spirit.
Three friends joined me for a wonderful morning on the trails at the Canmore Nordic Centre. The vibe was fun, relaxed and anything but competitive. One friend wore her Calgary Flames jersey, which led a lot of comments about the Battle of Alberta hockey rivalry.
All four of us set out at our own pace, but we were on the same finishing page. We weren’t chasing a personal best or trying to place in our age group. We were there soak in the gorgeous fall foliage, catch up with friends and eat some pie.
Sometimes races like this are a great reminder that running can be simply fun. The pressure of summer racing is over (although I didn’t really race this year) and it’s a good time to start thinking about the next season of running and goals.
I love the cooler temperatures (even though I was totally overdressed) and the relaxed atmosphere. This race was so much fun! I didn’t know anyone running other than the three friends who joined me in this adventure. Loved chatting and encouraging runners along the way.
Maybe that’s why October is one of my favourite months to run. The cooler temperatures make running more enjoyable, the scenery is hard to beat and there’s something about fall that always puts a smile on my face.