Chip Benjamin and Shandra Niswander at Pete’s Pizza during the Happy Hour.
Chip Benjamin came to the happy hour at Pete’s Pizza in Clarendon on Jan. 20, because he was thinking of walking the 5K in honor of his friend, Judie Armington, who died of ovarian cancer this past year. He had heard about Arlington Thrive at the First Presbyterian Church in Ballston, and arrived somewhat undecided, as the first snow of the year started falling. “I think I’m going to walk the race,” he said tentatively.
Several in the small crowd came up to shake his hand and congratulate him on his effort: Benjamin was only 15 minutes into the happy hour when he realized there was no way he was not going to run or walk after all the comments about how great the race was. And then, he won the door prize of a free three-month membership at the Sport&Health fitness club in Ballston.
Cecelia Gallegos was concerned: Would they let her walk part of the race if she couldn’t run 5K?
“Of course”, said John Morrill, “I walked it last year.” He enjoyed it so much he’s back to run it this year.
Matt Cunningham came back; he started out doing the ten miler last year but at six miles, he decided he wasn’t ready. He did the 5K and will try for a longer distance this year. There is no pressure to do better than that, said Jill Barker. It’s not about winning, it’s about Arlington Thrive and making friends. Some of those who came to the happy hour are celebrating their 10th run with Arlington Thrive. They were showing that same dedication on Thursday night — being in Clarendon past 7 p.m. meant some of them took more than five hours to get back home on the slippery roads.
The registration dates have changed due to the snowstorm. The informational meetings for new runners will be Thursday, Feb. 4 at 7 p.m,. First Presbyterian Church, Rm. 103. New runners are required to attend. The 10 Mile training will take place Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. starting Saturday, Feb. 6 through April 16, and the 5K training will take place Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. from Feb. 27 through April 16.