5Ks for Clara - Utah

 

 
 
 
I registered for the Snow Stomp 5K in Salt Lake City, Utah for our eighth 5K for Clara. Little did I realize that it was a 5K in the mountains on a snow-covered trail, and intentionally so! They really wanted us to stomp snow! Thankfully, I had my Yaktrax! Some individuals were running in snowshoes.




With our 5Ks for Clara shirts/hoodies donned, we started the race uphill. Dave took off at a fast pace, really hoping to place in his age group. I ran at a more careful pace, not wanting to slip on the ice. While running up the trail, we passed many cross-country skiers as well as hikers all decked out in snow bibs and hiking shoes with ice spikes. It was a beautiful morning for all of us on the mountain.



At the finish line, Dave had several of his family members waiting for us. We were so grateful to have Dave's stepmom, Karen, brother John, and brother Stewart with his wife Kristine, and adorable son Peter support us. It was so cute to hear our little nephew cheering loudly for Uncle Dave and Aunt Genevie at the finish line. We were so grateful for their willingness to get up early and meet us at the mountain for this event!

 

I was so proud of Dave for placing first in his age group! He was happy too, having worked really hard for it. I placed 2nd in my age group as well. We were able to bring home these beautiful, glass medals as a keepsake for the run. 

As Dave and I were being presented our medals, the race MC asked us what our 5Ks for Clara shirts meant. We explained that we are running in all 50 states to honor the life of our 18-year-old daughter who passed away 1-1/2 years ago. He was so touched that after giving us hugs, he handed the microphone to Dave and asked him to share our purpose with the crowd. The crowd cheered and many individuals came up to us after the race to talk to us about our 5Ks and Clara.

Overall, one of our more unique and satisfying races! After the race, we enjoyed lunch at Dave's sister's home and then walked downtown Salt Lake City, enjoying Temple Square. Later that evening, we attended a concert at the Maverick Center starring Tobymac.

Next Up - California!

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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