Women Shine at Women Rock Marathon Event

His lungs burn. His heart pounds in his chest as beads of sweat course down his face as the unrelenting August sun beats down the race course. But in this race, "he" is not a runner, but a cheerleader. The real racers, although with different backgrounds, share a common bond -- all race participants are women. We're now under one week until the 2013 Women Rock Race on August 31st, sponsored by the Team Ortho Foundation. The Women Rock race series comprises of a 5k, 10k and a half marathon on the last day of August. St Paul plays host to this series for all female racers. Team Ortho race pacers, or experienced runners who can help others set a rhythm and pace for the marathon, can assist women to meet or even exceed their race goals by keeping a consistent pace throughout the course. If a racer has a specific time they'd like to finish, find a race pacer and stick close! You can find the race pacers before the start of the race or if you want to get a sneak peek before the run. All finishers will receive a "Men of Women Rock" calendar, featuring shirtless hunks who will, coincidentally, also be at the finish line to hand the finishers a ruby and diamond pendant. The calendar supports osteoporosis research. Participants can also expect a glass of champagne at the post race party. Beyond the post race party, special awards will be given to exceptional runners. To quote the women rock website, "Awards will be given to the top overall finisher plus the top two finishers in each age group category." In a primarily male dominated world of sports, the Women Rock run series provides a breath of fresh air. Women of all ages, backgrounds, and physical abilities can come together and provide for themselves an environment of encouragement and competitiveness unlike any other. For more information about this event, visit the Women Rock website. Photo via: Women Rock Facebook Page