This is the way to see China Town.  I thought I had run this race many years ago but I realized this morning that I had not.  There is an unique atmosphere surrounding the Chinese New Year 10k and 5k run/walk.  The course was long and they didn't post results (at least I did not see it) but I will be back next year. 

I spoke with Bob Darling before the start.  He laid out the course and even through there were four hills, it could have been much tougher.  Since I am not a good hill runner (at least right now), I did loose about 45 seconds.  BTW, Bob was a good runner in the past but was not running because of a knee situation.

Speaking with Mark and Matt before the start.  There are not too many twins as fast as they are.  They finished second and third after leading most of the way.  They are being featured in our film.

Mark and Matt pushing up one of the tough hills leading the pack.  They have 40 yards on the runner in orange who won at this point...just after three miles.

Verity was first woman overall.  She is from Australia and will be sharing some good advice in our film.

I did a stupid thing.  Somehow my Garmin powered off right before the start and I played with it trying to run a good first mile.  I finally got it straighten out about two minutes later.  I need to figure this out before the next race.

Mike really liked this location and got some really good footage.

Speaking with Miss California Chinatown.  She ran the 5k and explaining what the Year of the Dragon means.

It was a good day...

Photos by Catherine Cross Ujena Fit Club and A Long Run

More photos at: Chinese New Year Run 2012

I do like this race.  Rich and Mike setting up the video camera before the start.  I have run this year at least 15 times over the years.  The course is not fast but it is beautiful.  We have made this one of four family running trips we do each year.  This was the fourth year we have done the Together With Love races held in Pacific Grove (near Monterey) around the weekend before Valentine Day. 

The wrap-up after the race with the family.  Justin, Lisa, Owen and Carly down front.

Bob finishing the 10k in 42:22.  His goal was under 42 minutes.  The Garmin says the course is a little long... Photos by Catheirne Cross Ujena Fit Club

Bob Anderson's grandson (Owen Wall in Red) is only five and finished in the top ten for the kids 1k races.  Take a look at that stride.

One of the characters in the film is Justin Wall.  He was a professional athlete and injuried his knee.  But being part of the Bob Anderson's family, how could he not take up running.  He ran the 5k today and finished 7th overall.

Since 9...11 Johnny carries the American Flag when he runs. 

What am I doing? Right before the start of the race.