It’s hard to beat the great weather, intimate stadiums and casual atmosphere of Cactus League Spring Training in the Valley of the Sun.

Click here to view photos from the Diamondbacks at Angels, March 6, 2011

Click here to view photos from the Rockies at Athletics, March 13, 2011

Click here to view photos from the 2011 Carlsbad 5000

Dejen Gebremeskel from Ethiopia (left) defeated defending Carlsbad 5000 champion Eliud Kichoge of Kenya in the Men’s Elite race.

Similar to the men, the Women’s Elite race was also decided in the final meters. Aheza Kiros from Ethiopia (right), the 2009 champion, and second last year, held off a spirited challenge from Pauline Korikwiang of Kenya to win her second Carlsbad 5000 title.

Click here to view photos from the 2011 Junior Carlsbad

One of my favorite events to watch each year is the Junior Carlsbad a running event for kids 12 and under. The looks of determination and joy on the kids’ faces are so genuine and inspiring.

Competitors in the Age 10 race:

My nephew Alex set a new PR for the mile. Way to go Alex!

My younger nephew Nick competed in the Age 10 race. Good run, Nick!

Samantha with excellent knee lift as she approaches the final turn.