Road closed

Did you ever notice how a road closed for an event is like a cattle call for runners? Officials may as well put up a sign saying  "run here" as a barricade announcing road closures for a parade.

I was able to attend the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California,  this year on New Year's Day.  And what a way to ring in the new year.  But the interesting thing to me is that beginning about five a.m. when the roads are officially closed to traffic, the streets become full of runners. It was amazing.  People emerge from the sidelines, headed both directions up and down the parade route, with all different abilities, some costumed, many of whom camped out all night, everyone just running.  There is no official race, and while it would probably be a money-maker, it would ruin the freedom of the day. Instead, you pick the distance, pace, and starting line.  Some spectators notice and cheer, others ignore you completely, but there is a camaraderie among the runners.  Sometimes you have to weave in and out of other parade goers, but that just adds flavor to the event. There is something exhilirating about running the streets that are normally jammed with cars, but now only busy with foot traffic.  You become the fastest moving vehicle, and it is exciting.  

Try it sometime.  Next time you see the roads closed, go for a run and enjoy the freedom of being free to run somewhere that is typically off limits. Happy running.