Zoned Uncomfortable
A few weeks ago I encouraged readers to participate in a local running event.
Though there were many to choose from, the thought of running for breakfast appealed to me, so we signed up for The Covington Kiwanis Club’s inaugural pancake stampede.
Members of the Kiwanis Club of Covington served up pancakes and sausage “all you can eat” style for $5 from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. at Newton County College and Career Academy.
The entire community was invited to come out, eat pancakes, and enjoy fun pancake-eating contests featuring Newton County Public Service and Newton County Schools.
The club also invited the community to join ReImagine Newton in the Pancake Stampede 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run.
Proceeds were to support the Kiwanis Club and their efforts to help children.
Pictured above are other fitness fanatics from Monticello that we were greeted by when we arrived and include Laurie Robinson, Kate Robinson, Courtney Spradlin, Cutter Spradlin, Ava Grace Spradlin, Mandi Tanner, Amanda Norris, Suzanne McGinnis, and Adam McGinnis. Even in 27 degree temperatures, runners enjoyed a cross country course around Newton Career College.
Readers that know me well won’t believe that I entered a pancake eating contest. I don’t take a lot of risks, nor am I daring or adventurous. Entering into a contest that encourages excessive and competitive eating was pretty bold and took me entirely out of my comfort zone.
Apparently, although I may not be risky or daring, I am fiercely competitive, because I took home the winning trophy. I confess this to you so that when you read the cover story of the February 3, Covington News, you won’t feel deceived.
The front page news story featured a lovely photo that captures me with my mouth wide open, very apparently shoving pancakes in my mouth. But they didn’t quite have the story straight. Yes, I entered into the contest to support my school – SURPRISE – no other teacher wanted to spend their Saturday morning serving their school or community; but eating seven pancakes in five minutes? That is a stretch.
Yes, I did win the trophy, but only by default. There were no other middle schools represented, again, SURPRISE. I knew this before the contest began and had difficulty finishing one pancake much less seven. I did my duty, served my school well, ate a pancake and ran a 5K.
What started out as a gesture of support turned into gratitude from my superiors, thankfulness I still have a sense of humor, and a front page news story. It goes to show – getting out of your zone has its advantages. Give it a try.