A Peruvian 4th of July, Round 2

Its hard to believe I just celebrated my 2^nd Fourth of July here in Peru. Last year’s celebration of dancing and an American potluck spread in Chaclacayo seems recent and the laughter and memories from that night remain fresh in my head. I spent this Fourth of July in Pacasmayo, a beach town in the northern region of my department. Several years ago a Peace Corps volunteer began the international marathon of Pacasmayo with his local community members. The race has grown and Jim, the new Peace Corps volunteer living near Pacasmayo, has adopted the race and helped continue its success.

I’ve run lots of road races, some more successful than others, but I was truly impressed by the organization of this event. The details were impeccable, everything was planned: pre-race events, music, water stops, jersey t-shirts, prizes, etc. The race was divided into 5K, 10K, ½ marathon, and full marathon, with hundreds of participants running these races. The race began along the boardwalk and continued along the beach, providing a pretty (yet windy) course. Dozens of Peace Corps volunteers from both Peru and Ecuador participated in the races, along with runners from many countries. The water along the way was distributed in a truly Peruvian fashion: tied baggies (think goldfish-from-a-carnival-type bags filled with water). Here in Peru vendors distribute soda, juice, and other beverages in little baggies, so this was quite an ingenious means of handing out water. Unlike the little cups used in traditional races, these baggies could be held easily without spilling. I was impressed; just bite a little hole in the corner and instant hydration! At the finish of the race all participants were given medals made out of local stones and carved by artisans from Pacasmayo.

The weather was beautiful and the post-race celebrations were particularly enjoyable in the sunshine along the beach. True to our American roots we prepared a big barbeque in the evening, complete with guacamole, hot dogs and hamburgers, and other American goodies. The day was perfect- early morning exercise, delicious food, sunshine, and great company. Despite being far from America, spending the day with Peace Corps friends at the beach made me feel truly patriotic.