A pig-themed post

Let’s go for a roll in the mud!

If you’ve ever dreamed of making like a swine and diving face-first into a dirt and water mixture (or if you just really, really hate your current pair of running shoes), you, my potentially filthy friend, have just 8 more days to register for the Nebraska Sports Council’s third annual Mud Run, or its cuter, more diminutive version, the Mini Mud Run.

Held in Springfield, Nebraska, at 9 am on Saturday, September 6^th, this foot race features a 3.1 mile course made all the more difficult by unknown obstacles and, of course, a giant mud pit that must be negotiated by crawling not over, not around, but through it.

For those of you, like me, who have eaten like a pig all summer, the shorter Mini Mud Run may be a more attractive alternative, as this noncompetitive event has runners jogging the very reasonable distance of 1 mile before coating their eyeballs with filth.

Tasteful costumes are encouraged, as is throwing away said costume rather than wadding it up, throwing it in the back of your car, and letting it bake to a stinky, brick-like consistency. Bring extra clothes for after the race (and maybe your toothbrush). To see last year’s competition in all of its dirty glory, check out the pictures here.

Revenge, I scream!

If you’re as upset about swine flue as I am, then you’ll know that the only way to truly combat this horrible disease is to eat as many pigs as possible. Yes, that’s right, revenge, like bacon, is a dish best served warm, and some local cyclists, as is their custom, are going to do their part this weekend.

I am, of course, referring to The Bacon Ride, an early Sunday morning ride that will start at around 6 am at Wohlner’s parking lot and travel to Platte River State Park. Although anyone is invited, be prepared for a 100-mile day. For more information, check out the Pedal Omaha blog.