Mexico: Running a 10K

Heavy traffic at all hours contributing to the already highly-polluted air. Supermarkets on every corner stocked full of sugary soft drinks, doughnuts, and an endless supply of candy. People smoking cigarettes basically everywhere you go. Some things about this city are not exactly healthy.

On the other hand, there is a noticable promotion of healthy living as well. Public transportation including the metro, lightrails, and Eco-bicycle system. Free yoga and zumba classes on Sundays. And, of course, road races. 

This past weekend I participated in the Nike 10K here in Mexico City, along with approximately ten billion other people. Okay, that is an exaggeration...but there were literally thousands of finishers. They say I was number 9787 to cross the finish line, and my time was in the 56 minute range. Being my first 10K, and given the altitude of Mexico City, I am content with my results. Heck, I am happy just to say that I participated in an international 10K. 

Now, the Nike 10K was not just your average "show up, run the race, cool down, and go on with your day" kind of event. Upon crossing the finish line we were handed our medals, fruit, muffins, sandwiches, Powerade, and invitation to "the after-party." Nike made sure that we properly refueled with all of the food we could possibly want (everyone loves pizza and tacos at 10 in the morning, right?), and they made sure that we properly cooled down/stretched out with a post-race dance. There was even a dance competition which one of my gym friends happened to win. All in all, we enjoyed ourselves. 

The day started out early and by 1 in the afternoon, we were definitely tuckered out from all the excitement.