What a beautiful day for a run, particularly in such a beautiful park as Bethpage State Park. Sunny, mild and dry. The cross country trail was covered with wood chips which added to the comfortable cushioning. This was the venue for the New Island Hospital/Lt. Michael Murphy 5K race which raised money for the New Island Hospital and honored fallen Navy Seal Michael Murphy. This event was so well organized for both runners and walkers.

As the star spangle banner was sung on the polo field, I looked around and felt that this was very special. When the horn went off, everyone charged across the polo field into the woods where the trail weaved through the trees. I just took it easy and the heel felt ok throughout. I took a few walk breaks and felt a bit winded at times but was surprised how I had maintained much of my conditioning. When I came around at the end and saw the finish clock ahead with 31:07 I could hardly believe my eyes. I had hoped to break 35 minutes; this was unbelievable. As I raced to the finish Michael Tumen, the race director, was cheering me on. I finished at 31:29 or a 10:08 pace. I was very pleased.

Following, I made sure to do lots of stretching to lessen the heel tenderness and when I got home I iced a few times. The heel feels ok! I feel great! Am now looking at another local race next Sunday. Maybe this is the start of my return to regular running? Regardless, today was wonderful!