The Village People run the Bayou City Classic

Steve Maliszewski navigated our centipede line through the streets under construction in downtown Houston.  It was a fitting role for a construction worker running in jorts, a reflective vest and a construction hat.  Our Indian was next in line, for which Cody Blazek put together a feathered headband, body paint markings and accented shorts to bear the likes of a bearded chieftain.  Heidi Zimmerman borrowed Luis Armenteros’ (thanks!) Reno 9-1-1 outfit to run as our police officer and keep us in line.  Jesus Sifuentes got lost going to the rodeo and ran as our cowboy in a hat and buttoned down shirt.  Joseph Schwieterman switched out his cycling commuting outfit for a biker jacket, gloves and bandana.  Rodrigo Gomez kept the end of our line afloat, running as our sailor in a white naval cap and coat.

We pooled this talented cast of runners from different clubs to make up The Village People Centipede Team at the 2014 Bayou City Classic 10k, yet still faced tough competition from a strong contingent of teams fielded by BARC.  But by sacrificing some extra sweat and chaffing, we had fun running a quick pace while chanting Y-M-C-A along the 10k course, and maintained a commanding lead.  We were beyond

Steven from the Duck Dynasty Centipede gives a resounding thumbs down upon hearing of The Village People breaking the course record

belief when Roger announced the final results as The Village People having set a new course record for centipedes  Grant it, race organizers did a great job to make an emergency change in the route of the certified course because of a construction crane blocking the access through one of the beginning streets, but we graciously accept the honor!  Cody and Heidi even managed to beat out individual racers to place in their respective age groups!

It does take a village to put on such a great race, so thanks to everyone who participated, volunteered and supported the event to make it a success in its 37th year benefiting trees in Houston.  The Village People are grateful for it to have been our first experience running in costume and we enjoyed every stride.  We’d like to extend congratulations to all the well deserved winners of the various centipede categories, age groups and finishers.  Good luck in achieving your future goals and as a final note;

‘Let’s hear it for the Y-M-C-A!’