Chariots of Fur

Me and Jedi at Chariots of Fur in 2015

I've decided I'm going to walk a 5K in February. It's called Chariots of Fur -- and Jedi gets to go with me. How fun is that? I've walked the Mutt Mile the last two years, and chickened out the two years before that. This year I’m going to do the whole 5K!

Up until this year Chariots of Fur has been hosted by St. Francis Animal Hospital. It was a big fundraiser for their Helping Paw program. The race is under a different organization this year. Other changes include:

• Later start time
• Slightly higher fees (that increase the later you enter)
• Fun Run and 5K are same price and start at the same time
• Medals will be awarded to the first 700 finishers
• Ribbons are given to all participating dogs
• Dogs' names are on the entry form so dogs can be announced at the finish line!

I have several friends that are going too. We've done it together for the last couple years. Some walk, some run, some do the mile, while others do the whole thing. Regardless, we all meet up after the race to socialize. Last year we ended up at a dog-friendly restaurant for pizza and beer.

Interestingly, St. Francis Animal Hospital is still hosting a dog-friendly 5K. They’ve moved the date to March and changed the name to Paw Prints in the Sand. I'm debating entering that one too. (I'm a glutton for punishment.)

To get my fat ass ready to go, I've downloaded a walking plan. Here it is if you want to see it: 5K Training - Walkers Program. Wish me luck? I need it!

P.S. I want a medal, dammit!