My SWA Run AWAY 5K Race Experience
I made it again at the 2026 SWA Run AWAY 5K—this time on the eve of our Easter celebration. There was something special about that timing, as if the run itself carried a deeper meaning of renewal, effort, and gratitude.
This year, I reached a new milestone. I completed the 5,000 meters (3.1 miles) in 28 minutes—my personal best. It felt like a meaningful improvement from last year’s SWA run and even from my February “Bridge the Gap” 5K.
And then came the surprise: I finished 3rd in my age group. Wow. I didn’t expect that—but it made the moment even more rewarding.
But beyond time and ranking, what truly made this race unforgettable was running alongside my son, Joni.
A Morning to Remember
Race day started early. We woke up before sunrise, had a light breakfast and coffee, and left home around 6:30 a.m. My son grabbed an energy drink; just a few sips, not our usual routine, but enough to feel ready.
When we arrived, the energy was already building. The crowd was larger than I expected. Later, I learned that 365 people participated, across different age groups; young runners, many in mid-age, and even some who looked well into their 60s. It was inspiring just to be among them.
We stood in a long line to pick up our race packages—T-shirts, bags, and our race numbers. I wore mine proudly, but Joni chose not to. I secretly wished we had matched, father and son, running in the same shirt, but I didn’t push him. Some moments are better left natural.
We pinned our race numbers and warmed up together in the parking area. That simple act—stretching, jogging lightly, preparing side by side—was already a win for me.
The Race Begins
After warming up, we made our way to the starting line. The atmosphere was electric. Runners gathered, conversations blended into anticipation, and then came the national anthem. Moments later, the bell rang, and the race began.
I started my timer.
I told Joni, “Don’t wait for me—run your race.” I also gave him my usual advice: start slow, then gradually increase your speed after the first mile.
I put on my Spotify playlist—Ethiopian gym and running music. The first track was powerful, energizing. Combined with the excitement and the warm-up, it pushed me harder than I planned.
And that was my mistake.
The Struggle Within the Run
I started fast—too fast. I passed my son and many others, feeling strong and confident. I finished the first mile at a pace of under 8 minutes.
But soon, reality caught up.
The effort began to weigh on me. My breathing tightened. My legs felt heavier. I realized I had broken my own rule.
Ahead of me, I saw Joni. Occasionally, he turned his head back to check on me. That moment touched me deeply. It reminded me of the great Ethiopian runners—Kenenisa Bekele and Haile Gebrselassie—when Bekele, at his peak, would glance back, watching his hero, wishing he could still lead.
It also brought to mind the emotional songs of Teddy Afro, capturing those moments of respect, connection, and legacy.
In that instant, this wasn’t just a race anymore—it was something deeper.
Running Through Nature
The course itself was beautiful. The race, organized by the Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County, took place along the Palmetto Trailhead of the SWA Greenway Trail System.
This wasn’t a typical city run.
We ran through natural trails, surrounded by vegetation. On one side, small ponds reflected the morning light. On the other, calm waters and greenery stretched into the distance. The air felt fresh, clean, alive.
I realized how much I prefer this kind of run—nature over pavement, peace over noise.
Even as I struggled physically, the environment lifted my spirit.
The Final Push
At the start, I had set a goal: finish under 30 minutes.
Now, deep into the race, I pushed myself to hold on.
Around me, runners of all ages and backgrounds moved with determination. Some were younger, some older—but many older runners impressed me the most. They weren’t rushing or slowing—they were steady, consistent, disciplined.
That consistency was powerful.
And then it struck me: in that narrow trail, we were all the same. Men and women. Young and old. Different backgrounds, different stories—but one shared purpose.
To finish.
More Than a Race
Crossing the finish line felt like more than just completing 3.1 miles. It felt like growth, connection, and gratitude.
Running with my son made it unforgettable. Competing with myself made it meaningful. Sharing the space with so many others made it inspiring.
This race reminded me that life, like running, is not just about speed—but about rhythm, resilience, and the people we run alongside.
I truly hope to keep doing this for the rest of my life.