Vulcan Run offers a nice tour of iconic Birmingham spots

Misty and I did the Vulcan Run today -- my first 10k in 20 years! I finished with time of 1:05:43 (better than I'd expected), but more importantly, I had a fun time doing it.

The weather was pleasant, and the race offered a nice tour of Birmingham.  Starting near Boutwell Auditorium, our route took us by (or at least where we had a good view of) the buildings downtown; Pepper Place; the Vulcan statue; Highland Park Golf Course; Rushton, Rhodes, and Caldwell Parks; Quinlan Castle; Five Points South with "The Storyteller" fountain, the statue of Brother Bryan, and the giant Blazer logo on the street; historic Morris Avenue; and Linn Park.

Less than a month ago I had trouble completing a 5k, but today's 10k was no problem.  It made such a difference in running at my own pace and not trying to keep up with Misty.  And since she finished 10 minutes earlier, it was nice to have her there at the finish line cheering for me.

I don't think I'll wait another 20 years before my next 10k (my last one was the 1992 Peachtree Road Race).  I'd do the Vulcan Run again next year, or even another 10k event.  But I'm definitely not up for Misty's suggestion of, "Do you want to do the Mercedes Half Marathon next?"

Not yet, anyway.