To non-running, non-cold-weather people, the idea of running a half marathon in Edmonton’s winter conditions perhaps sounds like punishment. But the Hypothermic Half Marathon, which is held annually in February, is one of my favourite races.

I’m not alone in loving it. It typically sells out even though two separate race dates are offered, and even though both include two start times to accommodate the hundreds of eager runners.

As usual, I registered immediately this year and was pumped about running my seventh annual Hypo Half in early February. My training included embracing minus 30* Celsius temperatures in mid-January for a pre-race gear-testing run. I even ran the first 5 kilometres into a strong headwind to ensure my gear was adequate (it was) before returning home after 17+ kilometres.

It was a fun, memorable run but in the days that followed, I was troubled by a tight left hamstring and a sore right foot. Both seemed minor however and I was confident that by reducing my pre-race mileage and seeking some early physiotherapy, I would be race-ready before February 7th.

But with less than a week before my race, my injuries were worsening. So when the race director sent out an email asking people to consider selling their race bib if they knew they wouldn’t be running, I contacted him.

Instead of selling my bib though, I learned that I had another option. I could switch my race date from February 7th to the second race two weeks later–more than enough time, I was sure, to address those pesky injuries.

I stepped up my rehab efforts but my injuries persisted. I had a frank talk with my physiotherapist who said he’d support whatever decision I made, while also cautioning me that if I raced on February 21st, I would potentially set my injuries back three or four weeks–which would take me pretty much back to where I started.

While still on the physio “slab” that day, I made the tough decision to pull out of the race. Runners never make such a decision lightly, but I was feeling beaten-up and I didn’t want to jeopardize other upcoming running goals.

Filled with self-pity, I emailed the race director and asked him to give my bib to someone else. I also confirmed that no, I didn’t want any payment for it. I just hoped it would go to someone who would enjoy the event as much as I have for the past six years.

At this point, I was up to my neck in “woeful”…

…but “wonderful” soon kicked in when I received this email from the person who received my bib: