Virtual Racing WITH the Boys

A few weeks ago, I was approached by Gone for a Run to run a virtual 4 mile race for Independence Day.  I could run 4 miles anytime between July 2-6.  I did run 4 miles prior to recording my virtual race but thought it would be more fun to run the virtual race with the boys.  OH man… best laid plans, right!?

As with all things and activities with children you never know what to expect.  Sometimes things will go super smooth and perfectly… other times it is not so easy.  This attempt was the latter.

As I was gearing up for the virtual race, I asked the boys if they wanted to ride their bikes while I ran.  P shared proudly that he wanted to run with me.  The competition among the boys grew fierce and all of a sudden the all wanted to run the race with me.

At this point, I knew it would pretty much be a walk.  Not much running.  As a mom, I try my best to be prepared.  I packed the jogging stroller to hold our waters and snacks… and quite possibly the T-man (5 years old).

We arrived at the trial head and the boys were excited and eager.  They proudly showed off the race bib.  It was a beautiful morning.  We were ready!

I kid you not.  We were maybe 10 steps on to the trail when T loudly proclaimed, “My legs are too tired!” as he jumped in the jogger.  Sigh.  Thankful that I brought the stroller, I reluctantly pushed him the entire way.  So much for him running and racing like he said 10 minutes earlier.

Precious P took off sprinting down the trail.  Leaving me pushing a too tired T in the jogger and a cranky Mr. C walking next to me.

As the trail wound deeper into the woods near the lake, P kept running.  He would pretty much sprint (pounding the pavement with loud feet) and then walk to recover.  Quickly sprinting again when we would get close to him.

The big brother, C gained a sudden burst of energy and began running too.  If anything, I think to tease his little brother by catching up with him.  Don’t let it fool you.  I think this was the only time C ran the entire time.

T-man was upset that I didn’t take a picture of him.  I told him that if he were walking/running in the race he would get his photo taken.  He wasn’t too happy with my response so I did a selfie with him in the photo (and C in front of us).

About a mile in to our walk, I saw a slug making his way across the trail.  He was focused and determined to make his way across.

Funny how the boys are always aware of the critters on the trail but ran right over this little guy.  I called them over… but they were determined to beat each other.  So…  I took a photo to show them later.

Shortly after the slug, the big boys wheels fell off.  They were tired, cranky, and full of complaints.  We took a break in the shade at the top of the hill.  I told them to show me how they felt with their face.  Notice my face… I was ready to call it quits after just 1 mile.

Now give me your happy I am having a great time face!  Ha!  Don’t you love how you don’t get the full story from a quick photo?  T was having fun because he was relaxing in the jogger… the other people on the trail however could sure here the other two boys cries of complaint.

We made it to the half way point!  2 miles.  We sat and rested on a wooden bench for a few minutes.  Listening to boats on the lake and discussing the many critters we saw on the trail at that point (snake, deer, lots of bugs, and the slug I saw earlier).

After their legs were rested, we turned around and headed back to the car.  The return 2 miles were the easiest and brought the least complaints from the boys.

They found a baby frog and were excited to hold and play with him.. until he jumped from their hand into the side brush of the trial.

Two happy little dudes walking the trail.  C with his baby frog in his hand and P with a big stick.

Again, T demanded that I take a photo of him on the run too.  He was concerned that he wouldn’t get his medal because he didn’t run/walk.  I didn’t have the heart to tell him that I was only sent 1 medal (for me).

The big boys took every short cut they could find on the trail to avoid the hills.  Too bad for them, because the long trail often had the best views.  I love this little bench overlooking the lake.  So peaceful.

When we rounded the corner, the two boys were sitting and resting.  Almost done!

We did it.  The boys (well, two of them) ran/walked their first virtual All 4 Run 4 mile race.  It wasn’t the fastest race… but we covered the distance and earned our medal.

We completed our 4 mile Virtual Run in 1:15:03.

After our morning walk/run we went home to get some lunch and then did more walking at Worlds of Fun.  Ha!

Meanest mom ever… or smartest mom!?  They slept really well that night!

Have you ever participated in a virtual race event?
Do you run/walk/bike with your kiddos?