So I wanted to start this on a more educational front, but decided I’ll have plenty of time to touch on that aspect the next two years in grad school. That being said, lets begin on a more personal note. I’m a pretty active guy who really takes pleasure in running and working out. When living in Minneapolis, my apartment was near Lake Calhoun, a popular hotspot for uptown residents to hangout, play volleyball, toss the Frisbee, hit up the beaches, or trek around the 3.1 mile walking/running path (there’s also a separate path for cyclists which is nice – no dodging or worrying about being run over)! Anyhow, I was apprehensive that I wouldn’t find a similar location here in Chicago… but that was short lived after my first run here. My current apartment is blocks away from the running paths spanning eastern Lincoln Park and only a half mile from the lake. Needless to say, I’m managing quite well when it comes to meandering through the various running paths.
I’ve also been fortunate enough to participate in many events that Chicago has to offer. Two that really stick out were the AIDS Walk/Run and the Men’s Health Urbanathlon. The AIDS Walk/Run was a pretty good event supporting a great cause. The weather wasn’t the best that day, unless you’re a big fan of combining rain, wind and cold temps… but that didn’t stop the UIC MBA Association – in partnership with the UIC HIV/AIDS Community Clinic Network – from fundraising over $1,150! As for the Urbanathlon, one word: AWESOME. This was maybe the most challenging race I’ve competed in. Don’t get me wrong, I run a lot – RAGNER, half marathons – but this was unique. Having to go through six different sets of obstacles spread out over nine miles was something I had never really trained for. But I was up for the challenge and ended up doing quite well (51 out of 3473)! Here’s a pic before all the action went down (I’m in black shorts and a grey long-sleeve shirt):
As far as future events, I’m anxiously waiting for November 6 to arrive… I’m doing the Hot Chocolate 5k. I don’t know if I’m more excited for the actual race, or the sweet goodie bag they give out! Either way, it should be a good event.