Birthday Diva Run

COVID-19, “ The Rona Era”

It’s Labor Day, Sept. 4th, and it’s the Birthday Diva run. On this day, Beyonce was born. And my favorites Amelia and Katonya were born on this day as well. This is the 7th year of the Birthday Diva Run. We run over 8.40 miles down Blue Hill Ave, the heart of Roxbury. We started off in Milton, past Mattapan Square, Franklin Park Zoo, and do Dudley Circle. This was an out and back course.

I forgot how hilly Blue Hill is. Add the heat and humidity started early this morning. This was the longest run I’ve done since Big Sur. It was awesome to see Katonya, BMR, BGR crew, her family, and all the other folks that came.

It’s important running in Roxbury, in the predominately black community in Boston. It’s important for the folks in the community to see us. For example, a black men, rolled down his window, and said “ Keep going sis” as I was walking. The mural art, urban streets, folks taking the bus, still partying for the night before, was all around.

The first 4 miles were a bit tough. Coming back the next four wasn’t too bad. It’s always a fabulous party when I came back. We had a dj, drinks, food, a mini dance party…as best I could do after running.

8.79 miles. , 1 hour and 34 minutes. This is a good baseline to work with. Let’s go!