Tomorrow is the Rattlesnake Run in San Antonio. To say this is a unique race is an understatement. For one thing, it's five miles long, but that's just the beginning. The unique factor is that it takes you through orange groves, up and down hills, through residential sections, on roads, off road - you get the idea.
Last year, as I ran this course with friends on a training run, an otter ran across the road right in front of us. The longer I run, the more different animals cross my path, figuratively and literally. Anyway, it was adorable, as you might imagine. Being a creature designed by Mother Nature for swimming, his 'run' was something to see.
What I haven't seen out there are rattlesnakes, so don't let that worry you. What you will see is a very large group of happy people, mostly people who put the Rattlesnake Run on their 'to do' running list every year. In other words, it's a tradition for many runners. We all know that San Antonio is the hilliest place around these parts, and this race will confirm that.
According to the website Race Pace Magazine named it "the best little race in Florida," and I think that just may be the prevailing attitude of attendees; certainly, it's one of the best.
There is also a one-mile 'Runner With Dog' Race, which alone is worth the trip. This race coincides with the San Antonio Rattlesnake Festival, so there is no reason to rush off after the race; this is an old fashioned small town festival with lots of booths, plenty of food, and loads of friendly folks. So, plan to hang out a couple of hours.
I'll be there for sure. I won't be running because it's too close to my marathon next weekend, but I plan to take lots of pictures, and I'll also be shooting video of the races, so check back here to see both. The Rattlesnake Run begins at 8:00.
Comments