Hot n Special 5k Turkey Trot

Preamble:

Weeks ago, YHC envisioned a Thanksgiving F3 5k with a hot boozy autumn drink to follow. An unfortunate turn of phrase in voicing this vision to the Hooch PAX in the gloom led to the moniker “Hot n Special”. YHC figured, run with it (pun intended).

Warm-O-Rama:

9 PAX assembled in the Thanksgiving gloom beside our shovel flag waving proudly on this cool, windy morning. Among them was a progeny of co-Q Flo, named Lil’ Flo, ready for her first cold weather gloomy 5k. We started off with the typical disclaimer, followed by SSH, Weed Picker, and Hillbilly.

The Thang:

The PAX ran the Medlock Bridge 5k route, a winding drunken Figure-8 shape that somehow feels uphill all the way around. As we got going, the PAX spread into two pace groups. YHC led a group going ~8 min/mile, while Flo led a more moderately paced group going ~11 min/mile.

The quicker pace group returned to the flag and did a few rounds of Mary filled with some more beatdown-esque entries like Merkins, ATM and Bonnie Blairs, to make this run feel a little beefier. Went out to pick up the 6 and escort ’em back to the flag.

Both pace groups returned and we continued Mary to show Lil’ Flo what this is all about. Did some LBC’s, American Hammers, Merkins, and Dolly.

COT:

Prayers of thanks for this group of HIMs, pushing each other to become stronger physically, and humble servant leaders in our concentrica. More prayers of thanks for strong bodies and recovery from injuries. Prayers for comfort to the Stephens family and all who are grieving the loss of loved ones this holiday season.

Naked-Man Moleskin:

As the name Hot n Special suggests, the PAX enjoyed some hot and special wassail at Popper Manor just up the street from the AO. Thankful for these men to share a cup of cheer with. Who would have thought even a couple years ago YHC would not just run, but organize, a 5k on Thanksgiving, complete with fellowship among brothers in arms? That’s the visible effect of a movement designed to reinvigorate male community leadership. This Thanksgiving YHC is thankful for F3 and the new perspective on fitness, fellowship, and faith that it has imbued.

May you all enjoy the holiday with family and friends. Aye!