Riv5KforMX

Two years ago, Mike Potter brought up the idea of a Riverview 5K. In December 2006, we discussed doing this 5K the following spring/summer. But there was so much going on. Riverview was focused on raising money for the new building and sending people to Mexico. The 5K idea was tabled. Then, last fall, Mike shared the idea of having a 5K to raise money for the Mexico mission trip to either myself or Shelley. I loved the idea.

I started dreaming up the possibilities in January. I scheduled a date and started spreading the word. I shared the ideas with JR Miller, one of the leaders of the mission trip. He said they were on board and that this race would raise money to purchase a van for the orphanage Riverview visits in Mexico.

The promo was done (and was awesome). People were signing up for the race. Jenny Cole went out and got food and prizes donated. Kirsten started sending me volunteer information. I remember early on someone said, "even if we raise $300 the race should be worth it."I recall smiling at that statement. My faith in what God was going to do was deep and I just had this feeling like the Lord was going to show up big time.

I went to Running Fit, a store in Northville, and asked them to donate bib #s. They gave me 40. I had to go back a month and a half later for more. i was nervous about not having enough. They gave me another 40. I had about 25 people signed up. Whenever someone would drop off the list, two more would register for the race. God was up to something wonderful.

The week of the race was intense. I spent every night on logistical race stuff, going through e-mails, signing up registrants, making sure the volunteers were covered and the responsibilities were clear. I heard a rumor the weather was supposed to be crappy. I smiled at that, too. My faith was strong.

The pre-planning really paid off. Joey and I were not running around all Friday night trying to get stuff done. In fact, we had a nice dinner with Jim and Jamie. I even spent some time talking with my cousin through a difficult decision in her life. I went to bed at ease.

Saturday morning, I woke up and pulled the curtain back. The 6:00 sun was rising and I could see the pink sky. "Red skies in the morning, sailor's warning." But again, I just knew God was going to bless us. I had no clue how big, though.

I got to the church and set up. I met Zack when he showed up to volunteer. The two of us decorated the church in a Mexico theme and then got a chance to talk a bit. I found out he had finish line experience and I quickly put him in charge of it. God was filling holes I didn't even know I had. Ruth and Jen showed up along with others. They stood at the registration tables and waited. Jamie came and took her position as the greeter. Jenny arrived with the food. Mark was out setting the course and Joey was setting up the water. We were a well oiled machine. So many volunteers showed up, I didn't have places for them.

"Where are the runners?" I joked.
"Yeah, we have way more volunteers then runners," someone said.
"Wait until 9:00-9:15" I said. They were going to all come at once. I just knew it.

And they did.

The cars pulled in and people flooded the lobby. The registration table could barely keep up with the line of people registering. WE RAN OUT OF BIB NUMBERS!!!! We had to make some with paper. I couldn't believe it...then again, I could. I kept thanking Jesus for giving me the faith and encouragement.

Just before the race, I retreated to the bathroom to pray. I spent a minute with God and then walked out to the parking lot. I was in awe of what God did. There were so many people! After my pre-race speech (on a ladder--that could have been better), the race started. For the most part, things went smoothly. I think they were a little nutty on the finish line but the race course and water stations were awesome. Our traffic control and time keepers did a fantastic job. I finished in 27:45. I just beat Paul but I think he let up at the very end. It was thrilling to see people I don't normally see run.

In the end, the 5K raised about $1,500. Ha! I'm still in awe of what God did. It was His race after all and we followed Him in faith. I also learned A LOT about being a race director. There are several places to improve on and I pray God gives me another chance to do so.