The morning started out as any other - a hectic flurry of activity trying to get everyone fed, dressed, and out the door. We arrived at race registration with plenty of time to spare before the first event of the morning, the Children's Fun Run. The children (8 and under) ran about a block toward the finish line joined by "Southpaw" of the Tri-City ValleyCats and the Albany Devil Dawg, and cheered on by parents, volunteers, and other race crew. To see this through the eyes of a three year old left me in awe. My daughter was so proud to be able to run her own race, beaming as she showed off her race number (appropriately every child was assigned the number 1). The award for finishing the race was two books!
The Youth Mile began at 9:30 and again, we saw children reveling in their accomplisment. A little after 10:00 the runners and walkers began the 5K out and back course. My daughter rode in her jogging stroller and we ran at a comfortable pace, using the event as a training run. We thanked the volunteers, cheered on other runners, and finished the course in just under 32 minutes.
As parents we have the opportunity to lead by example. Whether we like it our not, children look to us for guidance and acceptance. The best part of the morning was watching a pre-schooler's self confidence grow over the course of one city block.
