Paws for Cause 5k

Skyler, Pumpkin, and I ran in a local 5k in Fountain Valley to benefit Paws for Cause. Yes, you heard me right, Pumpkin ran in the race too. I had been searching for races where dogs and owners run together and came across this one.




Since Skyler is faster, he ran alone and Pumpkin ran with me. The race started and Pumpkin started off with sprint. She wanted to catch Skyler (by the way, don't you love his new running shorts?!), who was running a little ahead of us. After about 1/4 mile we lost sight of Skyler (thank goodness). Pumpkin and I bypassed the aid stations since we were doing some serious running. Near the turnaround point I spotted Skyler. Worried that Pumpkin would bolt for him, I distracted her. Success.

Pumpkin and I had some great splits and I really wanted to get a faster time than the Villa Park 5k I ran a month ago. With 0.1 miles to go Skyler was waiting to lead us into the finish line (he had already finished). Pumpkin saw him and nearly ripped my arm off. We sprinted through the finish line.

All of us had a great day. Skyler broke 20 minutes by getting a time of 19:20 (6:13 mile). He was 8th overall and 4th in his age group. I'm sure he can't wait to get into a different age group. I also got my best post-high school 5k time. Pumpkin and I ran 22:04 (7:06 mile). I couldn't have done it without Pumpkin and my Team Sparkle skirt. I was the 8th woman to finish and the 2nd woman to finish with a dog. I was also 1st in my age group.

Yeah, I got an award. I wish they would have had a division for people running with dogs.

Normally Pumpkin isn't scared of bigger dogs.

Not sure who this guy is. I think they said something about a show called The Brady Family?

Pumpkin is such an awesome running partner. I seriously love having someone to run with. She keeps me on my toes and pushes me to do better. And she just loves me. Isn't she just the cutest dog ever?