As our good and jerky friend (compadre?) Jeff related earlier this morning, this past weekend was the much anticipated Shelter Island 10K. The Dukes fielded a 12 person squad, a dozen Dukes if you will, for a picture perfect day on Shelter island. The course was beautiful and the weather was hot. Damn hot. 80 degrees and blazing-evening-sun-holy-sheet-I-wish-I-had-ice-packed-shorts-on hot.

No course records or PRs were set that I’m aware of, but everyone did managed to finish the race strongly amid much DOFB howling. Special congrats go out to Paolo, Lydia, Deirdre, Amy, PT & NG for completing their first race under the DOFB flag and earning their stripes (shirts). Righteous work folks!

Typical DOFB pre-race stretching routine. Works best with some horrible disco blaring to, you know, get Paolo pumped.
—–

Ivan showing strong form and gettin’ it done at the finish
—–

Juanito bringing it home
—–

GJ showing pluck at the end.
—–

The White Witch cranking towards cold water and a mojito
—–

PT making it look..well…something.
—–

NG & Amy showing that the Dukes will get it done no matter what. Neither rain, nor snow, nor pregnancy, nor a complete lack of training can quell our ferocious spirit. I salute thee.
—–

Big Lydz & Sam cruising home. There is no way on earth Lydia ever considered, a year or two back, that this is what she would be doing one beautiful June afternoon in the year 20 Ot 8. Seriously nice work to you both.
—–

One critically overheating Paolo as he nears the finish….huge showing P.
—–

Post-race Deirdre….who the hell knew she was so damn speedy?!?!?
—–

Much happier post-race Paolo grin. Thank god - I was afraid he was going to cross the finish and slug me for getting him into this sweaty mess.
—–

Lydz and staff photog Alixa…thanks for snapping all the great shots lady!
—–

DOFB Team shot for the Shelter island Reporter. Graham has a standing bet with an old friend and fellow islander about who can get in the reporter first (and not in the police blotter!). If this makes the paper, he wins. Hands Down. Seems like the prize should be paid in shellfish - no?
—–

A second group shot where we attempt to show our missing compatriot Jeff just how much we value and understand his life decisions.
—–

And, finally, expressing our club dominance by throwing the DOFB up right in the middle of the finish area. I’d say the “O” could use some work, but let’s see Los Compadres try something this daring. Hmmmm? Hmmmmmm?
—–

Dukes celebrate post race with a White Party involving amazing Fried Chicken from Commander Cody’s, outrageously good Margaritas & Mojitos and a fantastically prepped outdoor space….sweeeeeeeeet.
—–

Eating outdoors under a flawless night sky was the perfect way to end an amazing day ’cause, you know, that’s how we do.
—–

White lights in the trees…ladies in white on the lawn; very naaaace.
—–

The White Witch & PT. The post-race festivities were all her idea and everyone helped realize the vision. She rocks.
—–

P-funk livin’ the smoooove.
—–

As you can see, a shite time was had by all. Thanks again to the the great folks of Shelter Island for their amazing support over the length of the course. Especially those dudes with the hose at the top of horse hill…you really saved my butt from imminent heat-induced bootage. And to Graham for hosting us ne’erdowells and Fayth a& everyone else involved in making the post-race party such a fantastic time.

And, especially, to Jeff, for not ruining our fun by attending this year’s event.