3The Challenge:
Event number 2
The second of 5 events over 5 months. The Naples Fall Classic Half Marathon located in Naples, Florida showcases the brand new Isles of Collier Preserve and Sugden Regional Park. Look for event number 3 coming soon!
Completed no. 2 out of 5 scheduled events, the Naples Fall Classic Half Marathon. It was a wonderful cool fall day starting at Sugden Park, here in Naples. 274 runners finished the run with yours truly finishing 18th overall. Good for a first place age division win with a time of 1:43. My glass jar award is perfect for a big bag of Dark Chocolate M and M’s! I was able to dial in a good pace early and hold on to the end. The last 2-3 miles were tough, but I felt adequately trained, so I just pushed on. There weren’t too many mile markers on the course, so I was relieved when I looked at my Garmin and it read 12.3 miles. Nice. Just hang on to the finish. Would definitely consider this again for next year.
The Reward:
Yes. A hard earned reward, but not a beer. This called for something special. How about as dram of Laphroaig Cairdeas 2016, a limited edition product made yearly by the Master Distiller. For this edition, the fully aged scotch gets a second maturation in Madeira seasonal cask. This gives the scotch a slight reddish hue not characteristic of usual bottlings and a spicy finish.
For those not familiar with the fine world of single malt Scotch whiskies, they are produced in five different regions of Scotland. Those, like Laphroaig, are produced in the Islay region and are known for their very distinct smoky character derived from peat. Make no mistake, this is a hearty flavor and should be sampled at least once in a lifetime. Start “neat” to experience the full flavor, but then add a cube of ice to change the character and soften the edges. A great way to savor the victory and physical accomplishment. Now, where’s my hamburger?
