Each time I wear my Bare Buns Fun Run shirt, someone with genuine interest in participating asks if there really is such a thing and what it is all about. Yes, Virginia, there is a Bare Buns Fun Run and after hearing many unfounded tails (oops, tales!) about it, here is the real skinny.
Held in the month of July, there are actually two “clothing optional” events in WA state (from where I recently moved) - “West” in Seattle and the original at Kaniksu Ranch Nudist Park near Spokane. I have had the pleasure of participating in each of them. Why are they held in WA state with its dicey weather rather than ever sunny So-Cal? Much less sunburn in sensitive areas, I suppose!
Each of the BBFRs has the same premise. “Clothing optional” means that people do not have to participate nude, though the souvenir shirt from Kaniksu does make that distinction. Ironic to receive clothing from these runs, isn’t it? Use of photographic equipment is limited to staff and press making these low-key, fun events ideal for those just wanting to “hang” out for the weekend. On-site camping is offered by each community so that one may be close to the starts and get in the “swing” of things before race day.
Both races are out and back 5Ks over unpaved challenging terrain - though the scenery is never better! These are definitely not events at which to attempt a PR, and really, who would want to rush the experience? For the Hashers, the Saturday before the Kaniksu BBFR, there is the Cracked Moon Hash, which is touted as the “World’s Largest Nude Hash.” I hope they mean in number of participants!
I read in a recent AREC newsletter that the club will perhaps hold some of its own events. How about a run down Black’s Beach? I will magnanimously avail myself for individualized personal training sessions addressing fashion particulars and taping strategies specific to this unique class of event. Who knows? It could happen!!
My previous successes in Oscar’s races lured me into doing another one, even though my knee told me “No.” I made sure that I warmed up well, while I scoped out my rivals. For some reason, I run better knowing who I have to keep up with, must be that competitive streak Sam says I have.
Off we went at 6:30pm. I was running with Emmett, who had just completed the 2.8 mile run. I kept up with him long enough for him to tell me that I was running a 7 minute pace...great first 1/4 mile, huh? After that, I settled into my rhythm, trotting up one of what seemed like several hills. Around the lake, and by the doggie park where Sam and Shania stood cheering me on (“Go Girl” “Woof woof”). And then it happened. Which way did they go? No marks, no people nearby. Darn! I trotted along slowly, waiting for someone to catch up with me who knew where to go next. Finally, help came along and I bolted to make up for lost time. Caught up with a couple of gals and followed them to a turn off, they went right, and I went “WHOA!” My brief glance at the course map said LEFT. What to do? I went right. They stopped and turned and we conferred, and back we went to the left.
By this time, I gave up my goal of finishing in 48 minutes, just hoping to get to the finish line, BEFORE they rolled up the banner. Plugging away, glancing at my watch, I had the crazy notion that I could finish the last mile in 8 minutes. Yeah right! Almost to the finish, feeling great, I loop to the left hearing whistles and cheers. Sam and Emmett were at the finish waving me back to the right. Yup. It was one of those days. I made a mad dash toward the clock, watching the seconds fly by. I made it. No, my time wasn’t what I hoped for, but I sure learned a great lesson. Don’t worry about the competition or where I’m going. I was pleased to learn that I had placed in my division and with my time (no, I won’t tell), there is plenty of room for improvement.