Steps for Hope half: 4.7.18

A week after running in a big city (Carmel), Jill and I went to the small town of Plainville, IN. This was the 2nd Annual Travis Burkhart Foundation Steps for Hope Half.

     All participants received an email reminder two days before the race that early pack pick up was available as well as the morning of the event.  Since we live an hour and a half from the town, we opted to drive up the morning of for the race.  The event was to begin at 8:30 in Plainville Park and we arrived 45 minutes before.  Since the event was small, we did not have any issues parking.   The pack pick up was in the park shelter house and several volunteers helped us.  Each participant received a neon yellow dri-fit race shirt and a small goody bag with pens, note pads, magnet clips, chap stick, gum, etc.  The gum was perfect as Jill and I always have a piece in while running.  

   At 8:20 participants were called over to the shelter house and instructions and announcements were given.  We were also introduced to Travis Burkhart.  Ten years ago he was severely injured in a car crash and that is why the foundation was created in response to all the help the family received after. Since that time, the foundation has given back to the community over $150,000!  At 8:30 sharp, the race began and the temperature was a very cold 30 degrees. 

   The course was mostly flat with a few rolling hills.  Nothing to scare anyone away. The course was marked at every mile and there was 5 water|gatorade stops.  Also, a few porta jons were available.  For Jill and I, this may have been the most peaceful and relaxing half's we have ran in.  Although the course was open to traffic, that was not an issue for us as we took in the countryside of Daviess County.  One truck passed us several times checking on runners which was nice to see. 

   Once we crossed the finish line, we were handed a finisher medal.  We headed back to the shelter house to get a few goodies.  My favorite was the Nesquick chocolate milk and Otis Spunkmeyer double chocolate muffin!    Since the race is very small, only the overall male and female received an award.  For us, as long as we get a finisher medal we leave happy. 

   Susan Ramsey, the race director, did a very nice job organizing the event.  Although she did not have the ability to turn off the wind, we really enjoyed the race.  If you are looking for a small, peaceful half next year sign up.  You will not be disappointed!