The 2023 Ebenezer 5K just happened to fall on the weekend that I was in Northern Minnesota and had “race a 5K” on my training plan for my next half. They had a 5 and 10K race that day but we all ran the 5K and crushed it! My nephew took first place overall, my brother-in-law took second overall and my mom and I both placed in our age categories.
The race was put on by the First Baptist Church in Baxter, MN and went along the Paul Bunyan Trail. The race director and volunteers were all really friendly and welcoming- even to us out-of-towners who kind of stole the show.
I initially signed up with my nephew and brother-in-law. But when we got to the start line, my mom had FOMO and signed up right before the start. I’ve changed my mind about out-and-back routes. For smaller races I sort of like them. They give you a clear half way point and give you the opportunity to cheer on family.
My mom and I ran together for the first ~2 miles and got to cheer on my nephew and BIL as they sped to the finish line. I was feeling good considering I had been running in 90+ degree weather with stifling humidity and Baxter, MN was only 70 with minimal humidity.
This might have been the smallest 5K race I’ve ever done. But not so small that there wasn’t a rabbit to chase. I had “purple tank top” in my sights almost the entire time. I really had to pick it up at the end but was happy to pass her.
For the record, this was the first time I’ve ever beat my mom in a 5K. Yes, she was slightly injured and signed up the morning of, but I still beat her. 😛
My brother came with too and was our dedicated photographer. Mark my words though— he said if they had it the same time next year he would come with.
