Warning to fellow runners/walkers/cyclists in BSJ area
I was chased down by a man on my morning run today. At approximately 5:45am, I saw a man walk onto Moss street (I think from Toulouse or that general area) and toward me, touching himself. I yelled for him to stay away but then he started running after me. I kept running and screaming as loud and shrill as possible. I ran to Ideal gas station on Orleans and Moss, where two women came to my aid and called the police.
I was unable to give any descriptors aside from him being a black male, approx 5'8, slender build, long pants and shirt tucked in. One of the women who saw it happen from across the bayou was also unable to describe him, as it was very dark. I feel very powerless in my endeavor to make sure this doesn't happen to anyone else. All I can do is share and warn others.
A gentle reminder to pack some sort of protection. I'm so guilty of running without because it's such a pain and cumbersome to carry extra things. I'm lucky to have escaped but things could have went much differently.
Also a reminder that if you're an able bodied person, especially a woman, you need to work on being fast and strong. Looking back at my watch data, I clocked myself running at a 5'46 pace while he was chasing me. Unfortunately, we live in a society that encourages women to be frail and powerless. Today's wake-up call was that we cannot afford this. We must be able protect ourselves and others.
Many thanks to the two women who came to my rescue this morning. From calling the police to walking me home, I am incredibly thankful for their comforting presence and kindness.