I’ve run 16 half marathons, and while most aren’t particularly noteworthy (or blog-worthy), this morning’s Missions Heritage Half in San Antonio was. The course, which runs along the San Antonio River, within the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, and passes four of the five Spanish frontier missions in San Antonio, was beautiful and so much fun! I loved the historical scenery at 5 miles per hour. The race was organized, the volunteers were very nice, and the other runners were friendly (Texas, naturally).
I was originally scheduled to run Missions Heritage Half in October 2018, but city permitting pushed this event to February 2019. No skin off my back since it is during my “half marathon season” from October to February, when it’s chilly enough to run long distances in Texas. And the location was a great excuse to make a weekend road trip to San Antonio from our home in Houston.
My husband and I arrived in San Antonio Friday evening, in time for packet pick-up and dinner, and I took a hot bath in preparation for a cold race the next morning. The forecast would put the race start in the low 30s and would only climb a few degrees before the finish. What I hadn’t counted on (or hoped for?) was JUST how cold it would be with constant drizzle and 80% humidity. I can handle cold…but cold AND wet is awful.
Bitching about the weather aside, the race start and finish were at Mission San Jose just south of downtown San Antonio. Mission San José y San Miguel de Aguayo was established in 1720 and is gorgeous!
Around mile 3 at the first turnaround, we ran past Mission Concepcion (above), established in 1716. Pardon my stupid face in these photos, I was taking selfies for my husband, who was supposed to run with me but caught a cold before the race. I don’t wear make-up when I run, and I get super puffy during races. I digress…
Somewhere around mile 5 we ran through Mission San Jose again on our way south. This is where I took the opportunity to shed my jacket (thanks, Jerome!) and I was smart enough to keep my gloves.
Around mile 9 at the second turnaround, we ran past Mission San Francisco de la Espada (above), established in 1690. I was happy to make the turn back north and be done with the cold rain. Yes, rain.
Just when I thought I missed the fourth mission somewhere along the way, there it was around mile 10. Mission San Juan Capistrano was established in 1716 and is currently undergoing an external restoration (see scaffolding above).
And finally I made it back to Mission San Jose for my medal, tacos, and Mexican cookies and conchas. I was cold, wet, and desperately needing another hot bath. In fact, I was shivering violently on the way back to the hotel, so I’d happily take suggestions on how to prevent that from happening again (other than “screw that mess, just don’t run!”).
Overall, this was a fantastic race and I’d like to run it again next year! What’s your favorite race in Texas? Tell me in the comments below!
More running posts on Red Shoes. Red Wine.
Thoughts While Running a Half Marathon
Staying Motivated to Run During Off-Season
A Review of Virtual Strides: Quest for the Lost Scroll
I’ve Run Everywhere, Man: Vacation Running
I’ve Run Everywhere, Man: Destination Racing
What’s in My Bra? Running Gear Review: Can’t Run Without It
Finally Calling Myself a Runner
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