Okay, here’s my take on sharing my experience with “Mike’s Seafood Autism Run,” blog-style.
Mike’s Seafood Autism Run: My Muddy, Sweaty, and Heartwarming Day
Alright, let me tell you about this crazy thing I did last weekend: the Mike’s Seafood Autism Run. Now, I’m not exactly a “runner,” more of a “power walker who occasionally breaks into a jog when a dog barks,” but this event was for a cause close to my heart, so I figured, what the heck?
It all started with a buddy of mine, John. His little nephew is on the spectrum, and he’s been participating in this run for years. He kept bugging me to join, saying it was a blast, and I’d meet some awesome people. I finally caved, mostly because he promised me free beer afterward. (Priorities, right?)
So, Saturday morning rolls around, and I’m dragging myself out of bed way earlier than I’m used to. I threw on some old running shoes (the kind I usually wear for mowing the lawn), some athletic shorts, and a t-shirt. I met John at the registration tent, grabbed my bib, and tried to look like I knew what I was doing. I didn’t.
The atmosphere was electric. There were tons of families, all decked out in blue (the color for autism awareness). There were kids running around, dogs barking, music blasting – it was a real party. You could feel the positive energy. I started to feel a little less out of my element.
Before the run started, they had a few speakers share their stories about autism and how the Mike’s Seafood Autism Foundation has helped their families. It was really moving stuff. Definitely put things in perspective.
And then, we were off! I started out with the front of the pack but quickly settled to the back. I’m built for comfort, not for speed, ya know? The course was pretty flat, which I appreciated, but there were these patches of soft sand that were brutal! Felt like I was running in quicksand. My calves were screaming about halfway through.
Honestly, I walked most of it. But I didn’t feel bad about it. There were people of all ages and abilities out there, just doing their thing. I saw kids in wheelchairs, older folks with walking sticks, and some serious athletes just cruising. It was all about participation and supporting the cause.
The best part was seeing the support along the route. People were cheering, holding up signs, and offering water. One little girl gave me a high-five, which almost made me tear up (don’t tell anyone). It really felt like everyone was in it together.
I finally crossed the finish line, sweating like crazy and feeling like I’d aged ten years. But you know what? It felt great. I grabbed a water bottle, found John, and we headed straight for the beer tent. That cold beer tasted like the nectar of the gods, I swear.
Would I do it again? Absolutely. It wasn’t about setting a personal record or anything like that. It was about being part of something bigger than myself, supporting a great cause, and spending time with good people. Plus, I got a cool t-shirt and a beer. Can’t beat that.
- Got myself registered with the team.
- Woke up super early, which sucked, but worth it!
- Actually ran (kinda) a 5k.
- Drank a well-deserved beer (or two).
- Felt good about contributing to something positive.
So yeah, that’s my Mike’s Seafood Autism Run experience. Maybe I’ll see you out there next year! I’ll be the one in the back, power walking and trying not to spill my beer.
