It’s been too long since my last post. Sometimes life intervenes, and sometimes I run short of ideas. This piece came about when an opportunity presented itself, despite many current distractions. What transpired seemed worthy of a few lines.
Some Background
The 8 kilometre/5 mile distance is rarely contested. Over all the years I’ve been running, I’ve raced this distance only a handful of times. It’s a shame, because for me the 8k/5M is the ideal race distance.
Here’s a picture of me from the archives, at the finish of the 1988 Chasquis 5 Mile Classic in Edmonton. Yes, that was 38 years ago. The photo is actually a scan of a proof for race photos that I never ordered. I suspect I’m too late to order the pictures now. My finish time from that race (27:53 for 5 miles, equivalent to 27:43 for 8k) remains my PB for the distance. I can’t find many other data points. You’ll note that I had a modest crowd cheering me to the finish — more on that later.
Returning to the present, I was tempted by my fondness for the distance when my teammate Jason began twisting my arm to sign up for the 8k in the Calgary Police Classic. I eventually gave in to the peer pressure — that’s a good thing — and I was thrilled to see several of my Adrenaline Rush teammates do the same. We would have a large contingent on race morning, in both races.
This is a good place to include a few words about the event. The Calgary Police Classic is the current name of a race that has had various incarnations over its 46-year history. In April 1992, when I first ran it, and for many years after, the Police Half was a fixture on the spring calendar. I have fond memories of that day, because it was where I ran my PB for the distance. I went on to run the race a number of times. It was always a well organized event, and it attracted a high calibre field. The swag used to be a notch above other races too.
Now, many years on, RunCalgary has taken over delivery of the race. There have been changes of venue and timing, but it remains one of the premier races in Calgary. Last year, an 8k event was added. I think it was an excellent decision.
The 2026 Edition
I was unsure what to expect on race day. My training has been going well — a couple of recent workouts with teammates Vanessa (an “out and back faster” session) and Jen (a one-hour run with 12 x 1 minute strides) gave me reason to be optimistic. Still, one never knows what will happen on race day.
Thinking about my plan, I realized I could use the course to my advantage. It was a simple out and back, starting from the Mewata Armoury on 11 Street SW, with a straight shot west on Memorial Drive to the turnaround. I figured that if I could set a comfortable pace going out, I’d have a chance on the downhill, downwind return to hold my pace over the second half of the race.
It was chilly at the start, so I opted for a toque and gloves. I knew I’d be fine with a singlet and shorts once I got going. I thoroughly enjoyed the early kilometres. There was a lot of movement in the field, which I totally ignored. I told myself to be patient and run with good form. Approaching the turn, I was inspired to see my teammates Jason, Vince, Jen, Alan and Vanessa in rapid succession, all inbound and looking strong. Soon I made the turn too.
The rising sun was welcome, but it was also low and bright in the sky. I found that to be slightly disorienting. Checking my watch, I was shocked to see that my pace had increased, to less than 5:00/kilometre. This has not happened since before my strokes in 2017! However, I had to admit I was still feeling good. I decided to go with my gut and stop looking at my watch.
Only when I reached the onramp to the 14 St Bridge did I feel my pace falter. I put aside thoughts of finish time by focusing on picking off a few runners who were struggling more than me.
The straight on 9th Ave SW was in bright sunshine, and I was happy to see Deborah just as I crossed the line. She has continued to recover well from hip replacement surgery in August. It was awesome to have her join me at the race.
When I caught up with the rest of the crew, everyone was very satisfied with their race. And why not? Adrenaline Rush runners owned the age group podiums in the 8k. I’d learn later that the same was true in the half marathon, where teammates Wayne and Alistair also secured podium spots. Way to go, team!
I had expected to run somewhere between 42 and 44 minutes, so my chip time of 40:20 was off the charts. What’s more, I was fortunate to finish first in my M65-69 age group; a pleasant surprise. Later that afternoon, as we enjoyed my Doughnut Party treat — that was a two-person, or maybe a half marathon, donut — I tried to process what this result means for me. I’m not sure how to explain it, or what to do next. I assumed I was long since at equilibrium as to my stroke recovery. I suppose this is a good problem to have. For now, I’m treating it as a brilliant, and unexpected, one-off.
As always, I am thankful to be part of such a fantastic group of athletes. I appreciate their support and encouragement, every time I run with them.
Thanks also to our teammate Gord, for his support on race morning and his excellent photos!
Some AI Magic
I opened this piece with an old race photo. I sent the picture to my friend Phil for a laugh. Phil is very creative, and he enjoys photo editing. Lately, he’s been dabbling with AI. He suggested that my memories of the events of that day so many years ago may have been inaccurate — he thinks the crowd may have been much larger. He sent me this photo to prove it:
The thought of Phil’s alternate reality boosted my spirits at the 6k mark of the CPC race, just when I needed it most. That said, the crowds along Memorial Drive were quite large and boisterous. It added a little extra to what was already a memorable morning.
Maybe a piece on the pros and cons of AI is a topic best left for another time. Until then, be well, and BE FAST!
