Like father, like son: Smiths prepare for first 5K

Bryan and Doug Smith are running in their first race together Oct. 11. (T-G Photo by Sadie Fowler) [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

At 46, Doug Smith has taken on a new hobby, and the message he's sharing is based on what that new hobby has taught him.

"You're never too old to get started," Doug said.

After a nearly 20-year lapse in exercise, Doug has started a fitness routine mostly consisting of running, and he plans to run in his very first road race at the end of the month, the United Way Spooktacular 5K. He's not alone, though, as another beginner runner plans to run right alongside Doug -- well, maybe just a few steps ahead.

"The competition is on!" laughed Bryan Smith, 26, Doug's son. Bryan is another new runner and he and his father are running their first road race together.

Both started running regularly a few months ago, training for their first 5K about three or four times a week.

You could consider them running partners, though they're not your average pair.

"We've actually never run together," Doug said. "The race will be our first time."

But both will tell you that you don't have to train with your partner to call him your partner.

Doug, of Shelbyville, and Bryan, of Murfreesboro, run separately but talk often about how the runs are going.

"Even though we live in different cities we still encourage one another," Doug said. "You don't have to live together."

In jest, Bryan says the competition is on, however, both men actually run at about the same pace and intend on running the race together.

Both men are committed to continue running for the long term. They say running has changed their lives for the better.

"I feel much better physically and mentally," Doug, owner of A & A Heating and Cooling said. "I can tell a big difference."

He's lost about 20 pounds along the way. He says he and his wife, Lisa, also have changed their eating habits, which has helped him shed weight, as well.

Bryan, a former Marine, has run off and on throughout his life, but was in a slump prior to the father-son pact in July. He says he's going to stick with it this time.

"I absolutely feel better about myself," Bryan said. "It does wonders for your confidence."

Though Bryan says running may not be for everyone, he advises others, "Find some form of exercise that suits your needs."

After the Spooktacular 5K, the Smiths plan on taking on a couple more 5Ks, then moving forward to a 10K. They hope to continue progressing as runners, and one day hope to run a half marathon or better.

Maybe by that time, they'll have the rest of their family on board. Lisa is Doug's wife and Bryan's mother. Besides Bryan, Lisa and Doug have two daughters, Julie, 22, and Alexis, 8, whom they adopted from Vietnam when she was just 3 months old.

About the race

Just as the Smith men began their mission to find a 5K to run in, Dawn Holley, executive director of United Way of Bedford County, began getting the word out about this year's race, the second annual Spooktacular.

"We saw the ad in the newspaper," Doug said. "I like the local causes (United Way benefits). They're all great."

The race, a 5K run/walk, will be held Saturday, Oct. 31. Race time is 8:30 a.m. with registration beginning at 7:30 at Shelbyville Recreation Center. Runners should park at the nearby Eakin School.

Participants can also pre-register by completing registration forms or going to www.active.com.

Pre-registration (by Oct. 16) costs $25. After Oct. 16 the cost is $30. Participants will receive T-shirts.

Prizes will also be awarded to the top three males and females. First place receives $100, second receives $50 and third receives $25. Ribbons will be awarded to the top three males and females in each of the 10 divisions.

Runners and walkers will have a chance to purchase their finish line photos at www.t-g.com.

A costume class will also be held at 8 a.m. and special prizes will be awarded to first through third places.

About United Way

United Way of Bedford County provides resources to health and human service agencies, reaching people from all walks of life and income groups. It raises funds through employee workplace campaigns, corporate giving, donations, grants, and special events like the 5K run.

Currently, 18 agencies serving Bedford County receive support from United Way of Bedford County through donations received from individuals in the community.

For more information, contact Dawn Holley at 684-6685.