2026 has been a busy running season for me thus far. Since March 14, I have run 13 races, with 3 more scheduled. This will be a record for me with 16 total, and I may add 1 or 2 more. I started logging my runs and walks in 2010. Since May 2, 2010, I have logged a total of more than 42,141 miles. I’m looking forward to my upcoming race this Saturday at 9 AM in downtown Kansas City, MO. It’s called Gordy’s Pumpkin Run, a fun 5K through downtown KC. Runners can choose to run with a pumpkin in various weights. I declined that option. Since I struggle to walk and chew gum at the same time, running with a 5- or 10-pound pumpkin isn’t a wise move for me.
On September 19, I will run the Kansas City Zoo Run, a 4-mile race that starts and ends outside the zoo. I have run this race numerous times and have always enjoyed it. This will be the 5th time I have run the race. One of the “perks” or downfalls (depending on your perspective) of this race is that, about the 3.75-mile mark, with a quarter mile or so to go, as you are headed back outside the zoo to the finish line, while you are breathing heavier- at least I am, you get the pleasant whiff of farm animals as you run by. Sort of a race souvenir for one or more of your five senses.
My final scheduled race for 2026 is on October 3rd. Another race I haven’t run before is the Armourdale 5K. This race takes place in the West Bottoms of Kansas City, near Kemper Arena (though it isn’t called that anymore). It starts and ends on the Rock Island Bridge, which has been converted into an entertainment district. This bridge once crossed the Kansas River into Kansas City, KS. This race will be interesting, I think. But then again, I thought a midnight race I ran in July would be interesting, and I wasn’t impressed. Hopefully no disappointments this time.
After this race, I currently have no other races planned for the rest of the year, but I may look into a Halloween-themed and a Thanksgiving race. Maybe a Santa race. Then get ready for 2027.
