Thousands run in Seattle's greenest race

SEATTLE - It wasn't just Irish eyes that were smiling as thousands took on the annual St. Paddy's Day Dash in Seattle.

The 3.7-mile dash is a race about perspiration and libation - and for many dashers, staying in shape is not the goal.

"It's a beautiful day, and we can't wait to have a beer," says one woman.

Says another participant: "We're going to run to the second light and then were going to stop ....")

"I'm excited to do it, even though it's exercise," says Kerry Griffin. "That's terrible - can you believe it? I'm only doing it because I'm Irish."

Thousands braved temperatures in the 30s to run almost four miles in their finest Irish get-up. The St. Paddy's Day Dash has been a Seattle tradition for almost 25 years.

Some guys risked green goose bumps at the starting line in their blarney boxers.

The sounds of Ireland kept them going along with cheers from the sidelines.

And these Irish and honorary Irish folks say the run is also a chance to leave winter behind.

And the woman who was racing to beer - never fear, she made it.

"Thank you, ha-ha!" she laughs.