Yesterday – Sunday – was the Vancouver Sun Run, when more than 40,000 people run through the streets of Vancouver dressed in colorful costumes in a paean to spring. Or fitness. Or just because we can….

I had been training very hard for the race, but five and a half weeks ago I tore up my knee and have not been able to run a single day since mid-February. But no way was I missing the race AGAIN because of an injury.

I took it slow, but I didn’t want to go this slow! I had a really good first 5k, very pleased with that, but I hit a wall and had a tough last five. At least I wasn’t last!

There were lots of people who came out to line the course, ringing cowbells, holding up signs, offering high fives… and it seems corny, but it really helped. I was struggling coming up the Cambie Bridge, very near the finish line, and I saw a woman holding a sign that said “I’m so proud of you, Perfect Stranger” and it really gave me the energy to start hustling again. I actually finished with a flurry – my last k was better than my first!

I love the Sun Run – usually my runs are just Bailey and me running alone – but this run with so many people, young, old, every culture represented – just out moving – it’s damned inspiring. I think of it like a motorcycle ride you do with your legs – it’s for your soul, you can go as fast as you like, take the turns as tight as like, go up and down hill as you want, be out in the wind seeing the scenery… and still, you can stop on a dime and high five the people around you!