That moment has gelled, but is still tentative, and is 35 days away. We'll see.
Meanwhile, I need to run off the stress and frustration on a regular basis. Lots of that today, but things came together nicely. Now I just have to burn off the excess energy.
And it was a weird energy that got me out running today. Buzzy and jittery, but not directed. I couldn't sit still, but I felt heavy and slow when I got moving. I got to 14th Street and that was about all I could do.
Given the lethargy that seemed to come with this bleah feeling, I don't remember much about the run. It was pretty run-of-the-mill, just me racking up the miles.
Distance: 7.15 km. Time: 40:08
Average speed: 5:36 min/km (10.7 kph).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 20C.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Back at Altitude
Back to the rarified air of Calgary, after a long run in the soup in Saskatoon. There's about five hundred metres difference in altitude, and I really thought I would notice a difference, but nope. I was breathing just as hard there as I was here.
But still having fun either way. Tonight was a fun hard run, around the usual loop to Crowchild and back. Lovely weather, even a little on the warm side, bright and sunny. I pretty much got lost in the moving, only having to wake up a little to dodge the bootcampers at the bottom of The Stairs. It wasn't really zoning out, but perhaps just being in the moment.
Distance: 10.18 km. Time: 54:45
Average speed: 5:22 min/km (11.2 kph).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 20C.
But still having fun either way. Tonight was a fun hard run, around the usual loop to Crowchild and back. Lovely weather, even a little on the warm side, bright and sunny. I pretty much got lost in the moving, only having to wake up a little to dodge the bootcampers at the bottom of The Stairs. It wasn't really zoning out, but perhaps just being in the moment.
Distance: 10.18 km. Time: 54:45
Average speed: 5:22 min/km (11.2 kph).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 20C.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
The Past Revisited
I spent the weekend in Saskatoon, and I was definitely in for my distance run in a different town. Not that running in the 'Toon is new to me. I've been out a few times.
I keep forgetting about the difference of scale in Saskatoon and Calgary. I started near 8th and Acadia, which if I remember correctly is the highest point is Saskatoon, at just over 525 metres above sea level. I headed down Acadia to 14th Street. The idea was to head toward the river and see how far I could get in an hour and forty five minutes.
My first walk break was at Preston Avenue, which surprised me, but as I said I keep forgetting about how relatively small Saskatoon is. The second was at Cumberland, right beside a certain church. The third walk break at the river bank along Saskatchewan Cresent after I had turned north toward the U of S campus.
The fourth walk break was by the Deifenbaker Centre, beside a certain bench overlooking the river. I was beginning to remember how much history I have in this town.
Forty minutes was when I originally planned to turn around. But I felt reasonably good, so I decided to keep going. I ran to the 33rd Street railway bridge and crossed the river. More history.
On the other side, I descended the spiffy new stairway to the parking lot beside the weir and ran toward the Mendel Gallery. The trail beside the weir has been spiffed up considerably. It's almost unrecognizable to me, with the lighting and landscaping that has replaced the cracked weedy concrete apron that I remember.
Along Spadina, then down the short slope to the parking lot behind the Mendel, past the familiar stench emmanating from a sewer manhole by the path. Still there after all these years.
I passed the small sandy cul de sac where the Duck used to be (long since rotted and dismantled.) Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan has their tent up, and just past it, I popped out of the bush beside the Spadina Cresent underpass under the 25th Street bridge (which everyone calls the University Bridge.) I crossed that road, and ran across the grass to the pedestrian under pass, looping around to the walk on the other side of the bridge.
At the top of the bridge, I ran a short block down Clarence Avenue, and crossed to run down University Drive, which turns into Elliot Street after a block, then turned south down Bottomly Avenue. At 14th I turned east past that church again.
At Garrison Cresent I followed its long, gentle curve to the south, then turned east again at Main Street. I crossed Preston, and followed it to its end at Arlington. South on Arlington to 8th, then east to Acadia and my starting point.
This run was hot! I was used up after the ninety minutes it took, sweating like crazy. And I'd forgotten about the annual infestation in the city's beautiful elm trees of the chancre worm, which has a charming habit of dangling from the tops of those trees from a silk thread it spins, after gorging itself on the foliage. Actually I only saw four or five dangling in places where I had to dodge them.
I thought the lower elevation would have made a difference in my stamina, but perhaps whatever I gained with higher air pressure, I lost to the heat. Still, a great run, fun, and even proved that some demons really have been laid to rest.
Distance: 14.48 km. Time: 1:22:38 Average speed: 10.5 kph. (5:42 min/km)
Rest distance: 871.0 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 15.35 km. Total time: 1:31:38.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 23C to start, ending at 26C.
I keep forgetting about the difference of scale in Saskatoon and Calgary. I started near 8th and Acadia, which if I remember correctly is the highest point is Saskatoon, at just over 525 metres above sea level. I headed down Acadia to 14th Street. The idea was to head toward the river and see how far I could get in an hour and forty five minutes.
My first walk break was at Preston Avenue, which surprised me, but as I said I keep forgetting about how relatively small Saskatoon is. The second was at Cumberland, right beside a certain church. The third walk break at the river bank along Saskatchewan Cresent after I had turned north toward the U of S campus.
The fourth walk break was by the Deifenbaker Centre, beside a certain bench overlooking the river. I was beginning to remember how much history I have in this town.
Forty minutes was when I originally planned to turn around. But I felt reasonably good, so I decided to keep going. I ran to the 33rd Street railway bridge and crossed the river. More history.
On the other side, I descended the spiffy new stairway to the parking lot beside the weir and ran toward the Mendel Gallery. The trail beside the weir has been spiffed up considerably. It's almost unrecognizable to me, with the lighting and landscaping that has replaced the cracked weedy concrete apron that I remember.
Along Spadina, then down the short slope to the parking lot behind the Mendel, past the familiar stench emmanating from a sewer manhole by the path. Still there after all these years.
I passed the small sandy cul de sac where the Duck used to be (long since rotted and dismantled.) Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan has their tent up, and just past it, I popped out of the bush beside the Spadina Cresent underpass under the 25th Street bridge (which everyone calls the University Bridge.) I crossed that road, and ran across the grass to the pedestrian under pass, looping around to the walk on the other side of the bridge.
At the top of the bridge, I ran a short block down Clarence Avenue, and crossed to run down University Drive, which turns into Elliot Street after a block, then turned south down Bottomly Avenue. At 14th I turned east past that church again.
At Garrison Cresent I followed its long, gentle curve to the south, then turned east again at Main Street. I crossed Preston, and followed it to its end at Arlington. South on Arlington to 8th, then east to Acadia and my starting point.
This run was hot! I was used up after the ninety minutes it took, sweating like crazy. And I'd forgotten about the annual infestation in the city's beautiful elm trees of the chancre worm, which has a charming habit of dangling from the tops of those trees from a silk thread it spins, after gorging itself on the foliage. Actually I only saw four or five dangling in places where I had to dodge them.
I thought the lower elevation would have made a difference in my stamina, but perhaps whatever I gained with higher air pressure, I lost to the heat. Still, a great run, fun, and even proved that some demons really have been laid to rest.
Distance: 14.48 km. Time: 1:22:38 Average speed: 10.5 kph. (5:42 min/km)
Rest distance: 871.0 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 15.35 km. Total time: 1:31:38.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 23C to start, ending at 26C.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Gettin' Outa Town!
Gonna be on the road tomorrow; gonna hang with the Loganateur! Woohoo!
So I got a quick run in tonight, after I got laundry going and stuff. Well, not quick. I went 10 km, to Crowchild. Well, sorta quick. I tried to throttle back a little again, cuz I seem to have a speed thing going. I like going faster, but I want to be able to make it home again too.
Such a lovely day, perfect summer day. Except it's still not summer until Saturday. No rain. That's a good thing, since we had a month or so of nothing but.
There were lots of bikes to dodge, lots of runners and skaters out. Even a little traffic jam at the end of the Crowchild bridge. Lots of people at the bottom of The Stairs, too. In fact a big group seemed to decide it was too long to wait for their turn to climb them, and ran off toward downtown. It's an awfully busy corner.
The Path Under The Stairs was like nothing, well, sorta. I was breathing pretty hard at the top, and probably slowed down some (OK, OK, a lot). The path on top of the bluff was just fun.
And then I was home.
Distance: 10.18 km. Time: 55:30
Average speed: 11.0 kph (5:27 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 20C.
So I got a quick run in tonight, after I got laundry going and stuff. Well, not quick. I went 10 km, to Crowchild. Well, sorta quick. I tried to throttle back a little again, cuz I seem to have a speed thing going. I like going faster, but I want to be able to make it home again too.
Such a lovely day, perfect summer day. Except it's still not summer until Saturday. No rain. That's a good thing, since we had a month or so of nothing but.
There were lots of bikes to dodge, lots of runners and skaters out. Even a little traffic jam at the end of the Crowchild bridge. Lots of people at the bottom of The Stairs, too. In fact a big group seemed to decide it was too long to wait for their turn to climb them, and ran off toward downtown. It's an awfully busy corner.
The Path Under The Stairs was like nothing, well, sorta. I was breathing pretty hard at the top, and probably slowed down some (OK, OK, a lot). The path on top of the bluff was just fun.
And then I was home.
Distance: 10.18 km. Time: 55:30
Average speed: 11.0 kph (5:27 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 20C.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Jockying Schedules
Got a short week planned since I'm travelling on Friday. The Loganateur and me are gonna do some hangin' out. I also have tomorrow evening filled, and that's forced me to push the mid week run up a day, so it was a solo.
I got out the door almost as soon as I was home from work, and headed toward the bluff. Tonight I felt like mixing it up a little. When I got to the top of The Path Under The Stairs, instead of doing the hairpin turn on to it, I kept going toward Centre Street.
A nice long downward slope across the river, and then a little switchback near the bottom off the side of the bridge and onto the riverside path. You can tell it's finally summer out. So many commuters are on foot, walking home from work, and I'm a little envious of that.
Anyway, the runs from last week seemed to have set the pace. I was fast and even though I tried to throttle it back, I was pushing pretty hard, for me. More crowded on the promenade than it's been all year, and at 10th Street, a surfer was doing his thing on the river. The flood from a couple of years ago changed the river bed near the shore so that when the water is high like it is now, there's a good sized standing wave. He had a water-skier type trapeze thing anchored to the shore and was surfing the wave. Kinda neat.
I crossed at 14th, bounding up the slope to the bridge. I mean bounding. Breathing was heavy but even, and the legs were feeling strong. On the other side I took to the dirt path by the paved pedestrian one, as usual.
At the C-Train bridge I decided to change it up again, and took the stairs up to the pedestrain overpass across Memorial. On the other side is was under the C-Train and along side, heading deep into Sunnyside. At the train station, I turned onto 3rd Avenue, and then onto the trail along the bottom of the bluff that heads back toward The Path Under The Stairs.
I took a dirt path through the grass, one that slashes across the face of the bluff and pops up at 4th Street. And from there is was a few more blocks before I slowed to a cool-down walk.
Distance: 6.85 km. Time: 35:19
Average speed: 11.6 kph (5:09 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 22C.
I got out the door almost as soon as I was home from work, and headed toward the bluff. Tonight I felt like mixing it up a little. When I got to the top of The Path Under The Stairs, instead of doing the hairpin turn on to it, I kept going toward Centre Street.
A nice long downward slope across the river, and then a little switchback near the bottom off the side of the bridge and onto the riverside path. You can tell it's finally summer out. So many commuters are on foot, walking home from work, and I'm a little envious of that.
Anyway, the runs from last week seemed to have set the pace. I was fast and even though I tried to throttle it back, I was pushing pretty hard, for me. More crowded on the promenade than it's been all year, and at 10th Street, a surfer was doing his thing on the river. The flood from a couple of years ago changed the river bed near the shore so that when the water is high like it is now, there's a good sized standing wave. He had a water-skier type trapeze thing anchored to the shore and was surfing the wave. Kinda neat.
I crossed at 14th, bounding up the slope to the bridge. I mean bounding. Breathing was heavy but even, and the legs were feeling strong. On the other side I took to the dirt path by the paved pedestrian one, as usual.
At the C-Train bridge I decided to change it up again, and took the stairs up to the pedestrain overpass across Memorial. On the other side is was under the C-Train and along side, heading deep into Sunnyside. At the train station, I turned onto 3rd Avenue, and then onto the trail along the bottom of the bluff that heads back toward The Path Under The Stairs.
I took a dirt path through the grass, one that slashes across the face of the bluff and pops up at 4th Street. And from there is was a few more blocks before I slowed to a cool-down walk.
Distance: 6.85 km. Time: 35:19
Average speed: 11.6 kph (5:09 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 22C.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
A Dry Sunday
No rain this morning, although the cloud is moving in again. It's a nice change from the monsoons we've been experiencing.
People were pulling up as I was this morning at the rendezvous point. The fast group was gone in a hurry, another went solo, and I teamed up with Robert. We did a nice run from The Extreme Bean to Centre Street and back. It was rather nice to be back to a pace more in my usual range.
This guy is a marathoner, though. He's run a couple already this year, and is aiming for another, if I got the story straight. His boys ran with us too, although they pretty much left us in the dust.
Other than that, it was the usual busy paths, full of geese and runners, sunny skys and crazy-high river. The forcast says sun for this week - I'll believe it when I see it.
Distance: 12.14 km. Time: 1:12:17
Average speed: 10.1 kph (5:57 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 8C.
People were pulling up as I was this morning at the rendezvous point. The fast group was gone in a hurry, another went solo, and I teamed up with Robert. We did a nice run from The Extreme Bean to Centre Street and back. It was rather nice to be back to a pace more in my usual range.
This guy is a marathoner, though. He's run a couple already this year, and is aiming for another, if I got the story straight. His boys ran with us too, although they pretty much left us in the dust.
Other than that, it was the usual busy paths, full of geese and runners, sunny skys and crazy-high river. The forcast says sun for this week - I'll believe it when I see it.
Distance: 12.14 km. Time: 1:12:17
Average speed: 10.1 kph (5:57 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 8C.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
On the Edge of Ability
Met up with some of this group again to end the week with an 8 km run. It was looking a little wet, and the rain was pretty heavy when I pulled up to the meeting point on Parkdale Boulevard. The hail wasn't too thick, a little mushy even, since it disintigrated when it splatted against my windshield. And all this while the sun shone brightly.
About the time others pulled up, the rain stopped, and at 6:30 sharp, we started out. Lots of dodging puddles, and the wind was shaking the water out of the trees. Geese were lounging all over the place along the first part of the trail, and they had also left a lot of little "calling cards" all over the trail. Nice that the rain had made that mushy.
At Crowchild, one split off and kept going straight for a 5 km loop to 14th Street. I decided to tag along with the guys running the 8 km, and so followed them across the river. I managed to stay with them for another kilometre or so, but they had set an wicked (for me, anyway) pace. I started to slack off a little as we wound through the bush.
By the time I crossed the railroad tracks they were almost ten seconds ahead of me. A couple of huge puddles slowed them down, as we had to pick our way through the wet and mud around them, but I never really kept up.
After crossing the bridge at Edworthy, they were still well in sight. But another kilometre on, they were long gone ahead. By then, though, we were almost back where we started.
I managed to keep up a rather impressive pace compared to my usual outings. My breathing was even though heavy, and I was feeling my legs. This run was another push against my limits, and really, that's the way that I will be able to expand them.
I rounded the final bend to find everyone waiting. Then it was off to the coffee shop for a quick cuppa.
By the way, the official results of the Banff Jasper Relay have been published. The team I was on, the Extreme Bean Mountain Team, finished in 24:19:08. I finished my leg in an official time of 1:35:12 at a pace of 8:50/mile, or 5:30/km.
Distance: 7.57 km. Time: 38:19
Average speed: 11.9 kph (5:03 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light rainshower and 12C.
About the time others pulled up, the rain stopped, and at 6:30 sharp, we started out. Lots of dodging puddles, and the wind was shaking the water out of the trees. Geese were lounging all over the place along the first part of the trail, and they had also left a lot of little "calling cards" all over the trail. Nice that the rain had made that mushy.
At Crowchild, one split off and kept going straight for a 5 km loop to 14th Street. I decided to tag along with the guys running the 8 km, and so followed them across the river. I managed to stay with them for another kilometre or so, but they had set an wicked (for me, anyway) pace. I started to slack off a little as we wound through the bush.
By the time I crossed the railroad tracks they were almost ten seconds ahead of me. A couple of huge puddles slowed them down, as we had to pick our way through the wet and mud around them, but I never really kept up.
After crossing the bridge at Edworthy, they were still well in sight. But another kilometre on, they were long gone ahead. By then, though, we were almost back where we started.
I managed to keep up a rather impressive pace compared to my usual outings. My breathing was even though heavy, and I was feeling my legs. This run was another push against my limits, and really, that's the way that I will be able to expand them.
I rounded the final bend to find everyone waiting. Then it was off to the coffee shop for a quick cuppa.
By the way, the official results of the Banff Jasper Relay have been published. The team I was on, the Extreme Bean Mountain Team, finished in 24:19:08. I finished my leg in an official time of 1:35:12 at a pace of 8:50/mile, or 5:30/km.
Distance: 7.57 km. Time: 38:19
Average speed: 11.9 kph (5:03 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light rainshower and 12C.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Woohoo - I Kept Up!
The gang that invited me to run in the Banff Jasper Relay also invited me to join them in getting together for runs during the week. So tonight I took them up on it. I also got to pick up my shirt from the race - a very lovely brilliant green with long sleeves and the spiffy B-J logo. I love it!
I met up with some of them, and we walked down 10th Street to the river. After crossing Memorial, we were on the path and running. We immediately crossed to the promenade by the C-Train bridge and went east for the short zoo loop.
They set a pretty good pace, certainly faster than I usually run. But not so challenging that I was left in the dust. For the first while, I was feeling quite good, and quite happy that I was staying with them.
Time went by quickly. We got to Centre Street, and the path under the bridge was under water. Around that and on toward the East Village. There's a heck of a lot of construction going on there, that I had no idea about. A lot of landscaping and stuff.
Across the foot bridge to the zoo island (it must have a name...ah - St. Patrick's Island) where there's some work going on there in installing some lighting along the path. There were a couple of deep puddles to dodge at the next bridge, then onto the path beside Memorial. That's were I felt my calves. I was a little concerned, but the stiffness went away after a few minutes.
The rain started about the time we passed the Bridgeland train station, but was done about when we crossed Edmonton Trail. That was another underpass closed and under water.
Straight back toward 10th Street, and I was becoming aware of how hard I'd been pushing. Being with a group pushes you a lot more that running alone. Still, my breathing was even, and I was keeping pace. The aches that had popped up had gone away again. I felt pretty good.
At 10th, we all slowed to a walk and hit the stop buttons on our GPSs. Then a quick trip to pick up my race shirt, and across the street for a cuppa tea.
Great group, and a fun run. They've invited me to run again later this week, so I'll be there.
Distance: 8.47 km. Time: 41:23
Average speed: 12.3 kph (4:53 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 11C.
I met up with some of them, and we walked down 10th Street to the river. After crossing Memorial, we were on the path and running. We immediately crossed to the promenade by the C-Train bridge and went east for the short zoo loop.
They set a pretty good pace, certainly faster than I usually run. But not so challenging that I was left in the dust. For the first while, I was feeling quite good, and quite happy that I was staying with them.
Time went by quickly. We got to Centre Street, and the path under the bridge was under water. Around that and on toward the East Village. There's a heck of a lot of construction going on there, that I had no idea about. A lot of landscaping and stuff.
Across the foot bridge to the zoo island (it must have a name...ah - St. Patrick's Island) where there's some work going on there in installing some lighting along the path. There were a couple of deep puddles to dodge at the next bridge, then onto the path beside Memorial. That's were I felt my calves. I was a little concerned, but the stiffness went away after a few minutes.
The rain started about the time we passed the Bridgeland train station, but was done about when we crossed Edmonton Trail. That was another underpass closed and under water.
Straight back toward 10th Street, and I was becoming aware of how hard I'd been pushing. Being with a group pushes you a lot more that running alone. Still, my breathing was even, and I was keeping pace. The aches that had popped up had gone away again. I felt pretty good.
At 10th, we all slowed to a walk and hit the stop buttons on our GPSs. Then a quick trip to pick up my race shirt, and across the street for a cuppa tea.
Great group, and a fun run. They've invited me to run again later this week, so I'll be there.
Distance: 8.47 km. Time: 41:23
Average speed: 12.3 kph (4:53 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 11C.
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Playing Tag
I was tagged by She Who Makes Waves
Here are the rules and my reply.
* Just copy the following onto your post.
* The rules of the game are posted at the start of your blog post.
* I'm asking you five questions about running.
* Each player answers the five questions on their own blog.
* At the end of your post you tag other people and post their names.
* Go to their blogs, leave a note saying they've been tagged then to look at your blog for details.
* When they've answered the questions on their own blog, they come back to yours to tell you.
1. How would you describe your running 10 years ago?
Ten years ago, I tried running for a couple of weeks, but gave it up cuz it hurt. A lot. In retrospect, I probably had the wrong shoes and ran too far. Also, I got some really bad advice (see below) from those who I would have thought would have been a little more supportive. My first real run, the one that started all this, was April 5, 2004, for a little under 4 km. It was two months before I told anyone what I was doing.
2. What is your best and worst run/race experience?
Best - the Harvest Half in 2006, a gorgeous, sunny fall day. I managed a PR of 1:50:03. That's a 5:13/km pace, which for me is fantastic.
Worst - Calgary Marathon in 2007. Everything began to hurt by about 12 km, and it got worse from there. I think I finally stopped feeling those specific hurts sometime last February.
3. Why do you run?
It's something I can do by myself. It's not about winning and losing. I don't have to rely on others to run, join a team, attend league meetings and play to a schedule, and equipment-wise it's relatively cheap. It's also calming, envigorating, and it gets me off my ass and out the door in a blizzard or downpour or whatever kind of weather. There are a whole lot more reasons I could list.
4. What is the best or worst piece of advice you've been given about running?
Best - Go slow at the start. Increase my pace and distance in small increments
Worst - I shouldn't even try to run, because I'm not athletic, I'll wreck my knees and spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, and I'm at that age where I'll probably drop dead from a heart attack.
5. Tell us something surprising about yourself that not many people would know.
Not sure how surprising this is, but a very long time ago, I was a radio DJ and news reporter for a couple of years.
I have no idea at the moment who I could tag to carry this on...
Here are the rules and my reply.
* Just copy the following onto your post.
* The rules of the game are posted at the start of your blog post.
* I'm asking you five questions about running.
* Each player answers the five questions on their own blog.
* At the end of your post you tag other people and post their names.
* Go to their blogs, leave a note saying they've been tagged then to look at your blog for details.
* When they've answered the questions on their own blog, they come back to yours to tell you.
1. How would you describe your running 10 years ago?
Ten years ago, I tried running for a couple of weeks, but gave it up cuz it hurt. A lot. In retrospect, I probably had the wrong shoes and ran too far. Also, I got some really bad advice (see below) from those who I would have thought would have been a little more supportive. My first real run, the one that started all this, was April 5, 2004, for a little under 4 km. It was two months before I told anyone what I was doing.
2. What is your best and worst run/race experience?
Best - the Harvest Half in 2006, a gorgeous, sunny fall day. I managed a PR of 1:50:03. That's a 5:13/km pace, which for me is fantastic.
Worst - Calgary Marathon in 2007. Everything began to hurt by about 12 km, and it got worse from there. I think I finally stopped feeling those specific hurts sometime last February.
3. Why do you run?
It's something I can do by myself. It's not about winning and losing. I don't have to rely on others to run, join a team, attend league meetings and play to a schedule, and equipment-wise it's relatively cheap. It's also calming, envigorating, and it gets me off my ass and out the door in a blizzard or downpour or whatever kind of weather. There are a whole lot more reasons I could list.
4. What is the best or worst piece of advice you've been given about running?
Best - Go slow at the start. Increase my pace and distance in small increments
Worst - I shouldn't even try to run, because I'm not athletic, I'll wreck my knees and spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, and I'm at that age where I'll probably drop dead from a heart attack.
5. Tell us something surprising about yourself that not many people would know.
Not sure how surprising this is, but a very long time ago, I was a radio DJ and news reporter for a couple of years.
I have no idea at the moment who I could tag to carry this on...
Saturday, June 07, 2008
Banff-Jasper Relay
That was a long day. A lot of driving, and stressful as well, though mostly from my own ignorance. I needed to be at the Beauty Creek hand off well before 1:00 pm. I thought if I left before 9:00 am, I'd have plenty of time to get to my starting point. Ha!
I went over all the stuff I wanted to bring a dozen times, then out the door. I stopped for a coffee for the road before heading west. Rain had been pouring down since I got up this morning, and it wasn't slowing down. I wondered if I had enough clothes, forgetting (again!) that I usually over-dress.
Just past Olympic Park, the rain stopped, though there was lots of spray from traffic. And not much traffic. It was rather open on the TransCanada for a weekend, and I imagine the rain had a lot to do with that.
I reached the first big stress point at Jumping Pound Creek, when I realized I'd forgotten my Garmin. Gaaah! I cranked the car onto the first turn-around I found, a funky underpass, loop-the-loop thing just past the creek crossing. Back on the pavement I walked on the gas pedal, cursing mightily.
Near the pull-out opposite the big service station by the highway 22 overpass, I started thinking again. I stopped on the shoulder, and went through my bag of dry clothes and stuff, just in case I had actually put the Garmin in the pile. It was already 9:30, and going back for it would cost me an hour.
I could run without it. I did another loop-the-loop on the highway 22 clover leaf and got back on track (though still cursing mightily).
Traffic stayed relatively light all the way to Lake Louise. At the Scot Lake Hill, the deluge started anew and kept up until the highway 93 overpass to Radium. Then dry pavement. Time, meanwhile is ticking by, and this drive is taking forever.
Second stress point - construction just before Lake Louise, meaning 25 kilometres of trudging along at 70 kph. But then I was on the off ramp to 93 north, and suddenly into a Parks Canada checkpoint beside the highway, where they make sure you've got a park pass.
Third stress point - of course the guy in front of me is searching for a wallet or something, and visiting, and just generally taking his time. Back in my car, the type A personality is beginning to boil over.
Fourth stress point - you know those monster RVs, the severely under-powered ones that can't climb a mountain highway at more than a crawl? I believe there were a substantial percentage of the total North American population of them in front of me all the way to Bow Pass.
And then I caught up to the first runner on the south leg. Actually the last runner, since he was at the back of the pack. Before I knew what was slowing us down, I was rapidly approaching a fifth stress point. But yeah, these people were out here for the same reason I was, and it was very cool. I honked and cheered some of them.
It took a long time to get past them all. They were spread out over about thirty kilometres, with lots of support vehicles on the side of the highway. Doing the long climb to the Bow Pass (at almost the same speed as those damn RVs).
It was getting near noon at this point. I wasn't panicking yet. And then the RVs began to pull over one by one to various lookouts and observation points. Things began to go quite fast. At Saskatchewan Crossing, a few more pulled into the service station. I finally got to make up some time, and the Type A was settling down.
From the Crossing it was all new territory for me. I had no idea about what the road was like. I got to the switch-back that started the steep climb to the Columbia Icefield, and was extremely grateful that any RVs in front of me were a long way ahead. Then I realized that there were runners who had to climb this monster. Sheesh!
Twenty kilometres past the Icefield I caught up with the first (last) runner on the north leg. I was slowing down again and meandering past everyone, but I was going to make it before the forced start.
The force start time for my leg was 1:10. I pulled up fifteen minutes before that, hoping the runner before me hadn't been left waiting for me to hand off to. I loped over to the crowd, trying to remember what some of the people on my team looked like, and hoping they would recognize me.
The rain that began to dump at Bow Pass, had stopped just before the Crossing, and the pavement here was dry. Bob and his wife were suddenly right in front of me with safety vest and racing number. It took a couple of tries to get the vest on right, and someone graciously lent me his Garmin. I pinned the number on, made a quick trip to the portapottie, and lined up.
It turned out that the runner I was waiting for was still a couple of kilometres back. So I and a few others kicked off our leg at the forced start at 1:10 sharp.
The run itself was kind of anticlimactic. It stayed mostly dry, a little spitty, and the cloud was quite low. The scenery was pretty monotone - obscuring cloud and trees, and a long line of pavement dotted with runners and support vehicles.
Cherie and her husband Joe (she's the one I see in Starbucks all the time, and apparently he's the one that ran that nasty climb to the Icefield) leapfrogged me up the highway, with one of them occasionally running out with a water bottle. The highway is pretty straight on this leg, with long, gentle slopes. Nothing too challenging hill-wise, and I felt great. The Garmin kept saying I was running way faster than I usually do, and I was struggling to keep my speed down. But my breathing was even, and my legs felt great so eventually I relaxed into the pace.
That was pretty much it. At 15.2 km a guy with a walkie-talkie called in my team number to someone at the next hand off. I think he was supposed to be at 1 mile to go instead of 2 km, but that was OK. When the Garmin said I had about three hundred metres to go, I stretched out my stride a little. It was a long descending curve to the right, and it seemed to take forever to see the handoff gate around the trees.
And then I was at the gate, and some guy was reaching toward me. I slapped his hand, he took off and I slowed to a walk. Another great run!
The distance is listed at 17.3 km, and the Garmin said I had been running about an hour and thirty two minutes, which Bob confirmed. There was a cold breeze and he unfolded a foil racing blanket which I draped around my shoulders. Cherie handed me a water bottle, and someone took a picture. Then we walked back to Bob's car, where he handed me some cookies and a banana. I felt fabulous.
At his car, I realized the foil sheet I was draped in was spattered with the logo of the Boston Marathon. I really want a copy of that picture. Bob invited me to join then on their Sunday morning runs, dropped me off at my car, and that was that. I didn't bother to change, since I had dodged the rain and was still dry.
The drive home was mostly uneventful. I had to stop at the Crossing for gas. $1.63/l, so I put fifteen bucks worth in, and hoped it was cheaper in Lake Louise (it was - $1.31/l). I was home by 6:30, crashed on the couch by 6:35. An hour later, I showered and ate, and then discovered that I had not included pants in my change of clothes. Glad I didn't have to change.
If I do this again, I'll get a hotel room up there. Seven hundred kilometres of driving to run seventeen kilometres makes a long day. But it was worth it. Great fun and I may be part of a new running group, too. How cool!
I'm going to use the hour and thirty two minutes for my stats:
Distance: 17.3 km. Time: 1:32:00.
Average speed: 11.3 kph (5:32 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 8C.
I went over all the stuff I wanted to bring a dozen times, then out the door. I stopped for a coffee for the road before heading west. Rain had been pouring down since I got up this morning, and it wasn't slowing down. I wondered if I had enough clothes, forgetting (again!) that I usually over-dress.
Just past Olympic Park, the rain stopped, though there was lots of spray from traffic. And not much traffic. It was rather open on the TransCanada for a weekend, and I imagine the rain had a lot to do with that.
I reached the first big stress point at Jumping Pound Creek, when I realized I'd forgotten my Garmin. Gaaah! I cranked the car onto the first turn-around I found, a funky underpass, loop-the-loop thing just past the creek crossing. Back on the pavement I walked on the gas pedal, cursing mightily.
Near the pull-out opposite the big service station by the highway 22 overpass, I started thinking again. I stopped on the shoulder, and went through my bag of dry clothes and stuff, just in case I had actually put the Garmin in the pile. It was already 9:30, and going back for it would cost me an hour.
I could run without it. I did another loop-the-loop on the highway 22 clover leaf and got back on track (though still cursing mightily).
Traffic stayed relatively light all the way to Lake Louise. At the Scot Lake Hill, the deluge started anew and kept up until the highway 93 overpass to Radium. Then dry pavement. Time, meanwhile is ticking by, and this drive is taking forever.
Second stress point - construction just before Lake Louise, meaning 25 kilometres of trudging along at 70 kph. But then I was on the off ramp to 93 north, and suddenly into a Parks Canada checkpoint beside the highway, where they make sure you've got a park pass.
Third stress point - of course the guy in front of me is searching for a wallet or something, and visiting, and just generally taking his time. Back in my car, the type A personality is beginning to boil over.
Fourth stress point - you know those monster RVs, the severely under-powered ones that can't climb a mountain highway at more than a crawl? I believe there were a substantial percentage of the total North American population of them in front of me all the way to Bow Pass.
And then I caught up to the first runner on the south leg. Actually the last runner, since he was at the back of the pack. Before I knew what was slowing us down, I was rapidly approaching a fifth stress point. But yeah, these people were out here for the same reason I was, and it was very cool. I honked and cheered some of them.
It took a long time to get past them all. They were spread out over about thirty kilometres, with lots of support vehicles on the side of the highway. Doing the long climb to the Bow Pass (at almost the same speed as those damn RVs).
It was getting near noon at this point. I wasn't panicking yet. And then the RVs began to pull over one by one to various lookouts and observation points. Things began to go quite fast. At Saskatchewan Crossing, a few more pulled into the service station. I finally got to make up some time, and the Type A was settling down.
From the Crossing it was all new territory for me. I had no idea about what the road was like. I got to the switch-back that started the steep climb to the Columbia Icefield, and was extremely grateful that any RVs in front of me were a long way ahead. Then I realized that there were runners who had to climb this monster. Sheesh!
Twenty kilometres past the Icefield I caught up with the first (last) runner on the north leg. I was slowing down again and meandering past everyone, but I was going to make it before the forced start.
The force start time for my leg was 1:10. I pulled up fifteen minutes before that, hoping the runner before me hadn't been left waiting for me to hand off to. I loped over to the crowd, trying to remember what some of the people on my team looked like, and hoping they would recognize me.
The rain that began to dump at Bow Pass, had stopped just before the Crossing, and the pavement here was dry. Bob and his wife were suddenly right in front of me with safety vest and racing number. It took a couple of tries to get the vest on right, and someone graciously lent me his Garmin. I pinned the number on, made a quick trip to the portapottie, and lined up.
It turned out that the runner I was waiting for was still a couple of kilometres back. So I and a few others kicked off our leg at the forced start at 1:10 sharp.
The run itself was kind of anticlimactic. It stayed mostly dry, a little spitty, and the cloud was quite low. The scenery was pretty monotone - obscuring cloud and trees, and a long line of pavement dotted with runners and support vehicles.
Cherie and her husband Joe (she's the one I see in Starbucks all the time, and apparently he's the one that ran that nasty climb to the Icefield) leapfrogged me up the highway, with one of them occasionally running out with a water bottle. The highway is pretty straight on this leg, with long, gentle slopes. Nothing too challenging hill-wise, and I felt great. The Garmin kept saying I was running way faster than I usually do, and I was struggling to keep my speed down. But my breathing was even, and my legs felt great so eventually I relaxed into the pace.
That was pretty much it. At 15.2 km a guy with a walkie-talkie called in my team number to someone at the next hand off. I think he was supposed to be at 1 mile to go instead of 2 km, but that was OK. When the Garmin said I had about three hundred metres to go, I stretched out my stride a little. It was a long descending curve to the right, and it seemed to take forever to see the handoff gate around the trees.
And then I was at the gate, and some guy was reaching toward me. I slapped his hand, he took off and I slowed to a walk. Another great run!
The distance is listed at 17.3 km, and the Garmin said I had been running about an hour and thirty two minutes, which Bob confirmed. There was a cold breeze and he unfolded a foil racing blanket which I draped around my shoulders. Cherie handed me a water bottle, and someone took a picture. Then we walked back to Bob's car, where he handed me some cookies and a banana. I felt fabulous.
At his car, I realized the foil sheet I was draped in was spattered with the logo of the Boston Marathon. I really want a copy of that picture. Bob invited me to join then on their Sunday morning runs, dropped me off at my car, and that was that. I didn't bother to change, since I had dodged the rain and was still dry.
The drive home was mostly uneventful. I had to stop at the Crossing for gas. $1.63/l, so I put fifteen bucks worth in, and hoped it was cheaper in Lake Louise (it was - $1.31/l). I was home by 6:30, crashed on the couch by 6:35. An hour later, I showered and ate, and then discovered that I had not included pants in my change of clothes. Glad I didn't have to change.
If I do this again, I'll get a hotel room up there. Seven hundred kilometres of driving to run seventeen kilometres makes a long day. But it was worth it. Great fun and I may be part of a new running group, too. How cool!
I'm going to use the hour and thirty two minutes for my stats:
Distance: 17.3 km. Time: 1:32:00.
Average speed: 11.3 kph (5:32 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 8C.
Friday, June 06, 2008
A Day Late
Almost forgot to write yesterday's run. I guess it wasn't anything more than a quick run, something to stay loose with.
And it was short, only to 14th Street. I passed my neighbour on the 14th Street bridge going the other way. Somehow I managed to beat her home. I was stretching on the front step as she walked up and we chatted a bit. Turns out she's an alternate on one of the teams in the Banff Jasper Relay, so she might be out there somewhere tomorrow as well.
I met with the team captain and a couple of other runners Wednesday night. I'm looking forward to this one.
Anyway, gotta get my act together here, and get some sleep.
Distance: 7.13 km. Time: 40:53.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:21 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 15C.
And it was short, only to 14th Street. I passed my neighbour on the 14th Street bridge going the other way. Somehow I managed to beat her home. I was stretching on the front step as she walked up and we chatted a bit. Turns out she's an alternate on one of the teams in the Banff Jasper Relay, so she might be out there somewhere tomorrow as well.
I met with the team captain and a couple of other runners Wednesday night. I'm looking forward to this one.
Anyway, gotta get my act together here, and get some sleep.
Distance: 7.13 km. Time: 40:53.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:21 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 15C.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Chance Meeting in a Coffee Shop
Hoo, boy, what a run tonight! Tons of energy, feeling fast and loose and everything. Perhaps from the frustrations of commuting? The construction season appears to be in full swing.
But wotta run! Not that it was close to my fastest or farthest or anything, but I felt really strong out there. Down The Path and through the crowds of bootcampers and bikini busters at the bottom. Over Memorial, and down the trail on the river. Just cruising. Past 10th, past 14th, swing onto the foot bridge under Crowchild.
I kept wondering when I was going to crash. I thought I'd get back to 10th Street, and run out of steam about the time I passed the helicopter pad. But if anything I felt even stronger.
At The Path Under The Stairs, it seemed like I barely slowed down. I broke my breathing rhythm just at the steepest part, and just kept pushing. At the top I was huffing, still felt great, and pushed harder all the way to the end.
Back to the coffee shop: I keep running into this woman in Starbucks, a couple of times a week. We got to chatting one time in the line up, and it turns out she's a runner too. Sort of a serious runner. So we talk a little over the last few weeks about training and stuff.
Yesterday morning as we swapped stories about our Sunday training runs (she's getting ready for Chicago) she asked if I'd be interested in running with her team in the Banff-Jasper Relay. So I said yes.
This morning I chatted with the team captain. I get Leg 11 which is a fairly flat 17 km well past Saskatchewan Crossing. What's nice is that I start no later than 1:00 pm - not too early or too late. Gonna be a hoot!
Distance: 10.14 km. Time: 54:13.
Average speed: 11.2 kph (5:21 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 12C.
But wotta run! Not that it was close to my fastest or farthest or anything, but I felt really strong out there. Down The Path and through the crowds of bootcampers and bikini busters at the bottom. Over Memorial, and down the trail on the river. Just cruising. Past 10th, past 14th, swing onto the foot bridge under Crowchild.
I kept wondering when I was going to crash. I thought I'd get back to 10th Street, and run out of steam about the time I passed the helicopter pad. But if anything I felt even stronger.
At The Path Under The Stairs, it seemed like I barely slowed down. I broke my breathing rhythm just at the steepest part, and just kept pushing. At the top I was huffing, still felt great, and pushed harder all the way to the end.
Back to the coffee shop: I keep running into this woman in Starbucks, a couple of times a week. We got to chatting one time in the line up, and it turns out she's a runner too. Sort of a serious runner. So we talk a little over the last few weeks about training and stuff.
Yesterday morning as we swapped stories about our Sunday training runs (she's getting ready for Chicago) she asked if I'd be interested in running with her team in the Banff-Jasper Relay. So I said yes.
This morning I chatted with the team captain. I get Leg 11 which is a fairly flat 17 km well past Saskatchewan Crossing. What's nice is that I start no later than 1:00 pm - not too early or too late. Gonna be a hoot!
Distance: 10.14 km. Time: 54:13.
Average speed: 11.2 kph (5:21 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 12C.
Sunday, June 01, 2008
High Inertia Morning
Ever have one of those mornings where you wake up feeling pinned to the mattress by the weight of your personal history? Even the head start of waking at a ridiculous hour doesn't ease the effort of enjoying a simple coffee and newspaper. (And is that a rut of its own?) Overcoming these moments is one of the biggest reasons I run.
And what brought that all on, anyway? Perhaps the post-adrenalin crash after yesterday's adventure on the Zipline at the COP, which left me ridiculously exhausted by mid-afternoon.
But a run fixes all that. Especially on a gorgeous day like today.
Down to the bluff and already there's people all over. Looking down on the bridge to Prince's Island is to see a river of people. And there's music booming from the island, too.
On the island are signs directing people to the stage for the Enerflex MS Walk. There's a big crowd already at 9:00 in the morning.
On the promenade were lots of runners and walkers. A couple of the running room groups were just getting started. Lots of early started on the MS walk. At Crowchild, the crowd abruptly thinned, and there was just a big running group ahead. Their pace was enough that it took awhile to catch up to them. Passing was a little problematic with the narrow path and the oncoming traffic.
A very friendly talkative bunch, which is another reason I like running on Sunday mornings. Just behind me as I broke past them, a grumpy cyclist frantically ringing his bell swished by. At least he used the bell.
The rest of the run below the escarpment was fast, going by quickly. The run along Parkdale was eaqually quick. I don't think I was any faster physically, and I was certainly present. But it just moved by quickly.
At Crowchild, the MS Walkers were thick. There were many places where I had to slow to a walk to wait for a chance to pass, and that was all right. By then I was well into the rhythm, and the walkers contributed a great energy of their own to the day.
One of their checkpoints was just before the 10th Street bridge underpass, and it was wall to wall people. Nothing to do be meander a little until the crowd began to thin out a little past it.
After that, hard running to the foot bridge. I was pretty much spent when I got to The Path Under The Stairs, but I tackled is as aggressively as I was able. I don't think it was any kind of spectacular performance, but sometimes it feels good to push hard.
At the top, chaffing issues had me dithering about cutting it short and going up 2nd Street, or pushing on to my usual end up 4th Street. I opted for the latter, and that was that.
Now it feels like I should maybe nap or something.
Distance: 16.64 km. Time: 1:28:31 Average speed: 11.3 kph. (5:19 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.03 km. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.67 km. Total time: 1:37:31.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Partly sunny and 14C to start, ending at 16C.
And what brought that all on, anyway? Perhaps the post-adrenalin crash after yesterday's adventure on the Zipline at the COP, which left me ridiculously exhausted by mid-afternoon.
But a run fixes all that. Especially on a gorgeous day like today.
Down to the bluff and already there's people all over. Looking down on the bridge to Prince's Island is to see a river of people. And there's music booming from the island, too.
On the island are signs directing people to the stage for the Enerflex MS Walk. There's a big crowd already at 9:00 in the morning.
On the promenade were lots of runners and walkers. A couple of the running room groups were just getting started. Lots of early started on the MS walk. At Crowchild, the crowd abruptly thinned, and there was just a big running group ahead. Their pace was enough that it took awhile to catch up to them. Passing was a little problematic with the narrow path and the oncoming traffic.
A very friendly talkative bunch, which is another reason I like running on Sunday mornings. Just behind me as I broke past them, a grumpy cyclist frantically ringing his bell swished by. At least he used the bell.
The rest of the run below the escarpment was fast, going by quickly. The run along Parkdale was eaqually quick. I don't think I was any faster physically, and I was certainly present. But it just moved by quickly.
At Crowchild, the MS Walkers were thick. There were many places where I had to slow to a walk to wait for a chance to pass, and that was all right. By then I was well into the rhythm, and the walkers contributed a great energy of their own to the day.
One of their checkpoints was just before the 10th Street bridge underpass, and it was wall to wall people. Nothing to do be meander a little until the crowd began to thin out a little past it.
After that, hard running to the foot bridge. I was pretty much spent when I got to The Path Under The Stairs, but I tackled is as aggressively as I was able. I don't think it was any kind of spectacular performance, but sometimes it feels good to push hard.
At the top, chaffing issues had me dithering about cutting it short and going up 2nd Street, or pushing on to my usual end up 4th Street. I opted for the latter, and that was that.
Now it feels like I should maybe nap or something.
Distance: 16.64 km. Time: 1:28:31 Average speed: 11.3 kph. (5:19 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.03 km. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.67 km. Total time: 1:37:31.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Partly sunny and 14C to start, ending at 16C.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Wet Friday Night
Woohoo. It started to come down as soon as I stepped out the door. By the time I'd walked my warm-up block and began running, I was drenched. Very nice.
It hardly felt as though I was being rained on at all, I guess because I was running with the wind. But the way it was dripping off the brim of my hat, I was getting pelted like every one else.
A lot of people were out on the bluff, running The Stairs and The Path Under The Stairs. Real runners don't notice the rain much, I guess. It was great!
By the time I got to the bottom it was a downpour, and it persisted as I ran across the foot bridge to Prince's Island. By the time I got to the Jaipur Bridge, the sun was blinding, yet the downpour was unabated.
There were hardly any people out on the promenade, of course, but by the time I got to the 10th Street bridge, the rain had stopped, and by 14th Street, my shoes were no longer audibly squishing. Across from the Greyhound terminal, there were even dry spots on the pavement.
Once I got away from the traffic noise, where Pumphouse Road branches off of Bow Trail, I could hear my shoes again. Not loudly, though. I kept thinking I was hearing someone coming up behind me.
At Crowchild the sun disappeared behind the next black rain squall, and I kept waiting all the way home for the heavens to open up again. But it never happened.
I tackled The Path rather agressively tonight, having lots of leg and breath for it for once. Usually I've run out of one or the other when I get that far.
And then along the bluff and home. Never got rained on at the end.
Distance: 10.01 km. Time: 57:27.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:44 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 18C.
It hardly felt as though I was being rained on at all, I guess because I was running with the wind. But the way it was dripping off the brim of my hat, I was getting pelted like every one else.
A lot of people were out on the bluff, running The Stairs and The Path Under The Stairs. Real runners don't notice the rain much, I guess. It was great!
By the time I got to the bottom it was a downpour, and it persisted as I ran across the foot bridge to Prince's Island. By the time I got to the Jaipur Bridge, the sun was blinding, yet the downpour was unabated.
There were hardly any people out on the promenade, of course, but by the time I got to the 10th Street bridge, the rain had stopped, and by 14th Street, my shoes were no longer audibly squishing. Across from the Greyhound terminal, there were even dry spots on the pavement.
Once I got away from the traffic noise, where Pumphouse Road branches off of Bow Trail, I could hear my shoes again. Not loudly, though. I kept thinking I was hearing someone coming up behind me.
At Crowchild the sun disappeared behind the next black rain squall, and I kept waiting all the way home for the heavens to open up again. But it never happened.
I tackled The Path rather agressively tonight, having lots of leg and breath for it for once. Usually I've run out of one or the other when I get that far.
And then along the bluff and home. Never got rained on at the end.
Distance: 10.01 km. Time: 57:27.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:44 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 18C.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Mis-Timed
Back out on the trail again, but it gets to be a drag running alone sometimes. So I thought I'd try The Running Room groups again. For some reason, I got it in my head that they met at 6:30, so I missed it all. Oh, well.
Back out on the promenade, it was actually kind of nice. I should wait more often before heading out after work. When I usually run, right after I get home from work, there's often nothing but bike commuters and the like. Tonight, being out a about an hour later, there were lots of runners. Blades and walkers too.
I did the full Crowchild loop. No particularly memorable moment, but over all quite a nice run.
Distance: 10.14 km. Time: 59:27.
Average speed: 10.2 kph (5:52 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 17C.
Back out on the promenade, it was actually kind of nice. I should wait more often before heading out after work. When I usually run, right after I get home from work, there's often nothing but bike commuters and the like. Tonight, being out a about an hour later, there were lots of runners. Blades and walkers too.
I did the full Crowchild loop. No particularly memorable moment, but over all quite a nice run.
Distance: 10.14 km. Time: 59:27.
Average speed: 10.2 kph (5:52 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 17C.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Wet and Uneventful
Nothing really special about today. I was out in a brisk wind and sprinkly rain nice and early. Even though it was cold, it didn't take long to get warmed up enough to not notice.
There were a few runners out. There seems to be a lot of "serious" runners that are out in all weather. Not that I consider myself a "serious" runner. Just nuts enough to be out in the rain.
I stayed on the south side of the river for the whole run to Edworthy today, just to see what the trail was like below the escarpment. Just a small bank of ice along side the trail, but the trail itself was clear.
Across the river at Edworthy and eastward. Markers were on the trail for the Calgary Women's Walk and Run. I passed the 3 km marker, which was across the trail from the 7 km marker. Interestingly the markers also had "Brooks" on them, but not the logo. My first thought was that it was a lot farther than 3 km to Brooks.
After that, just a nice run along the river toward home. But there was a folded table across from the CBC building, leaning against a stack of cases of bottled water. Another run or walk?
About half a kilometre from the ramp up to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, the battery died on my GPS. I had about two kilometres to go and about two minutes to my next run walk. So without the tyranny of the GPS to dictate when to walk, I decided to wait until I was just about to ascend the steepest part of The Path Under The Stairs, which made for a nice walk up a steep path.
From there, it was just a nice run the rest of the way.
It's all estimates again. I'll add one and a half kilometres to what the GPS got, and eight minutes.
Distance: 16.21 km. Time: 1:26:37 Average speed: 11.2 kph. (5:21 min/km)
Rest distance: 900 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.11 km. Total time: 1:35:37.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 19C to start, ending at 21C.
There were a few runners out. There seems to be a lot of "serious" runners that are out in all weather. Not that I consider myself a "serious" runner. Just nuts enough to be out in the rain.
I stayed on the south side of the river for the whole run to Edworthy today, just to see what the trail was like below the escarpment. Just a small bank of ice along side the trail, but the trail itself was clear.
Across the river at Edworthy and eastward. Markers were on the trail for the Calgary Women's Walk and Run. I passed the 3 km marker, which was across the trail from the 7 km marker. Interestingly the markers also had "Brooks" on them, but not the logo. My first thought was that it was a lot farther than 3 km to Brooks.
After that, just a nice run along the river toward home. But there was a folded table across from the CBC building, leaning against a stack of cases of bottled water. Another run or walk?
About half a kilometre from the ramp up to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, the battery died on my GPS. I had about two kilometres to go and about two minutes to my next run walk. So without the tyranny of the GPS to dictate when to walk, I decided to wait until I was just about to ascend the steepest part of The Path Under The Stairs, which made for a nice walk up a steep path.
From there, it was just a nice run the rest of the way.
It's all estimates again. I'll add one and a half kilometres to what the GPS got, and eight minutes.
Distance: 16.21 km. Time: 1:26:37 Average speed: 11.2 kph. (5:21 min/km)
Rest distance: 900 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.11 km. Total time: 1:35:37.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 19C to start, ending at 21C.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
A Mighty Wind
Pretty breezy out there tonight. But that's kind of irrelevant as far as going for a run. I dunno, perhaps I'm paying for the excesses of the long weekend. Or I'm simply coming down with something. Something I ate?
Anyway, due to G.I. issues, a sense of urgency developed about half way through the run, that I needed to return home quickly. That sort of absorbed all my attention, though I did notice the rebar wind chimes by The Pumphouse were actually making sounds. Very nice.
Distance: 10.2 km. Time: 55:04.
Average speed: 11.1 kph (5:24 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 19C.
Anyway, due to G.I. issues, a sense of urgency developed about half way through the run, that I needed to return home quickly. That sort of absorbed all my attention, though I did notice the rebar wind chimes by The Pumphouse were actually making sounds. Very nice.
Distance: 10.2 km. Time: 55:04.
Average speed: 11.1 kph (5:24 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 19C.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Long Weekend Solo
Heather is out of town again, so I went solo. It's been a fabulous weekend weather-wise, so I couldn't wait to get out there. And it looks like everyone else was ready to be out there, too.
Not feeling great this morning though, so I started slow and was going to see how I felt going along. I was ready to cut it short if I started to feel really crappy, but the more I ran the better I felt.
I actually made pretty good time to Edworthy, better than I expected. And up until the turn around Angel's Cafe it was an uneventful run. But just in behind, on the bank against the highway, a goose family was making it's way down to the road. Seven little ones, looking very fluffy and new.
The return run was pretty good. I felt strong and had a great pace. I caught up to a couple who had drifted in from the condos near Point Mackay, and were going slightly slower than me. I passed and said good morning. Stoney silence.
I moved in front of them and pushed it a little just to get some distance. Then they passed me. No worries, except that as they pulled in front of me they slowed down again. OK, so I endured that for another minute, then decided to pass again. As I got along side them, they sped up again. At that point, my Garmin said it was time for a walk break, so they got way ahead of me. But for a couple of minutes, it was just like driving in weekend traffic on the Trans Canada from Banff.
Anyway, it was too nice a morning to be affected by that weirdness. And for one robin sitting in a bush beside the path near the Crowchild/Memorial interchange, it was almost the last morning. He fled toward me, then down the river bank, as the leaves on the bush exploded around a small hawk that traveled through it claws-first.
All this happened less than ten metres in front of me. It was too small to be a red-tail hawk, and too brown. Kinda stripy on the underside. It recovered from it's dive in less than the width of the trail, almost coming to a full stop five feet off the ground. Then it banked away from me, glided down the river bank and along the shore. Spectacular!
Between the Deerfoot driving style of those two runners, and witnessing a raptor doing his grocery run, I was a little pumped. It felt fast, and I was feeling a little strain in the lungs. I probably haven't pushed like that enough, and it felt great. It also didn't last.
After a walk break just before 14th Street, it felt like it was all I could to to start running again. Another walk break up the ramp to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, and the legs just didn't want to swing any faster. But I took on The Path Under The Stairs, and actually managed a fairly agressive climb. I even passed a cyclist labouring up the steeper part of it (who promptly passed me - another Deerfoot experience)
I felt this climb in the lungs though, and my breathing never really recovered in the half kilometre to the end of the run. Great run, considering how I felt at the start (and somewhat still felt at the end.)
Distance: 16.00 km. Time: 1:28:49 Average speed: 10.8 kph. (5:33 min/km)
Rest distance: 893.9 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 16.89 km. Total time: 1:37:49.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 19C to start, ending at 21C.
Not feeling great this morning though, so I started slow and was going to see how I felt going along. I was ready to cut it short if I started to feel really crappy, but the more I ran the better I felt.
I actually made pretty good time to Edworthy, better than I expected. And up until the turn around Angel's Cafe it was an uneventful run. But just in behind, on the bank against the highway, a goose family was making it's way down to the road. Seven little ones, looking very fluffy and new.
The return run was pretty good. I felt strong and had a great pace. I caught up to a couple who had drifted in from the condos near Point Mackay, and were going slightly slower than me. I passed and said good morning. Stoney silence.
I moved in front of them and pushed it a little just to get some distance. Then they passed me. No worries, except that as they pulled in front of me they slowed down again. OK, so I endured that for another minute, then decided to pass again. As I got along side them, they sped up again. At that point, my Garmin said it was time for a walk break, so they got way ahead of me. But for a couple of minutes, it was just like driving in weekend traffic on the Trans Canada from Banff.
Anyway, it was too nice a morning to be affected by that weirdness. And for one robin sitting in a bush beside the path near the Crowchild/Memorial interchange, it was almost the last morning. He fled toward me, then down the river bank, as the leaves on the bush exploded around a small hawk that traveled through it claws-first.
All this happened less than ten metres in front of me. It was too small to be a red-tail hawk, and too brown. Kinda stripy on the underside. It recovered from it's dive in less than the width of the trail, almost coming to a full stop five feet off the ground. Then it banked away from me, glided down the river bank and along the shore. Spectacular!
Between the Deerfoot driving style of those two runners, and witnessing a raptor doing his grocery run, I was a little pumped. It felt fast, and I was feeling a little strain in the lungs. I probably haven't pushed like that enough, and it felt great. It also didn't last.
After a walk break just before 14th Street, it felt like it was all I could to to start running again. Another walk break up the ramp to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, and the legs just didn't want to swing any faster. But I took on The Path Under The Stairs, and actually managed a fairly agressive climb. I even passed a cyclist labouring up the steeper part of it (who promptly passed me - another Deerfoot experience)
I felt this climb in the lungs though, and my breathing never really recovered in the half kilometre to the end of the run. Great run, considering how I felt at the start (and somewhat still felt at the end.)
Distance: 16.00 km. Time: 1:28:49 Average speed: 10.8 kph. (5:33 min/km)
Rest distance: 893.9 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 16.89 km. Total time: 1:37:49.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 19C to start, ending at 21C.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Hot Run
We're finally getting hot weather, and wouldn't you know it, I feel bloody awful. I don't know what has hit me, but I've had a splitting headache since mid-morning, which finally went away a couple of hours ago.
I thought maybe a run would be the thing to sweat it out, so out I go. And sweat, I did!
By the time I got to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, I was feeling the heat, and feeling slow, to boot. I felt like I was just barely plodding on the promenade.
At 14th Street, on the bridge, I was definitely dragging, and it only got tougher once I got to the other side. I seem to have the ability to keep going no matter what, and today was no different, but I sure thought about it.
By the time I got to the ramp up to the foot bridge again, I felt drained, and The Path Under The Stairs was one of those ordeals that never seem to end, but at the end you remember nothing about it other than it was long and hard.
I've been running along the bluff to 4th Street and then backtracking once I get to my street, but today I opted for the shortest way home, up 2nd street, which cut maybe 200 metres off the run.
Now it feels like I'll never stop sweating, or ever be able to move much. Not sore or anything, just drained. I really don't believe what the GPS is saying as far as speed, but it holds up to experience.
Today's run
Distance: 7.02 km. Time: 39:21.
Average speed: 10.7 kph (5:36 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 27C.
I thought maybe a run would be the thing to sweat it out, so out I go. And sweat, I did!
By the time I got to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, I was feeling the heat, and feeling slow, to boot. I felt like I was just barely plodding on the promenade.
At 14th Street, on the bridge, I was definitely dragging, and it only got tougher once I got to the other side. I seem to have the ability to keep going no matter what, and today was no different, but I sure thought about it.
By the time I got to the ramp up to the foot bridge again, I felt drained, and The Path Under The Stairs was one of those ordeals that never seem to end, but at the end you remember nothing about it other than it was long and hard.
I've been running along the bluff to 4th Street and then backtracking once I get to my street, but today I opted for the shortest way home, up 2nd street, which cut maybe 200 metres off the run.
Now it feels like I'll never stop sweating, or ever be able to move much. Not sore or anything, just drained. I really don't believe what the GPS is saying as far as speed, but it holds up to experience.
Today's run
Distance: 7.02 km. Time: 39:21.
Average speed: 10.7 kph (5:36 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 27C.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Something Different
Enough running alone. I headed down to the Eau Claire Running Room to try a group run. Still seems a little odd in that everyone goes their own way. It seems kind of counter-intuitive to get into a running group to run alone.
Anyway, a one mile run to the place, and then pick a group to run with. I thought I'd try the 10 km group. The route chosen was was the short zoo loop, which I haven't run for over a year - too many crack heads.
But there were not too many people hanging out along the path so it felt relatively safe. A lot of in-line skates went by. I talked to one person for awhile, until we got to the bridge from the zoo parking lot over to Memorial. At that point there seemed to be some confusion about which way to go.
We eventually got sorted out, heading over to Memorial. I followed another guy for awhile, and eventually struck up a conversation. At the suspension bridge to Prince's Island, we climbed the stairs and crossed, catching up to the group, and a couple of others, by the brass propeller.
And after a bit of stretching and stuff, I picked it up and headed back home.
Today's run
Distance: 9.17 km. Time: 50:10.
Average speed: 11.0 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 19C.
Anyway, a one mile run to the place, and then pick a group to run with. I thought I'd try the 10 km group. The route chosen was was the short zoo loop, which I haven't run for over a year - too many crack heads.
But there were not too many people hanging out along the path so it felt relatively safe. A lot of in-line skates went by. I talked to one person for awhile, until we got to the bridge from the zoo parking lot over to Memorial. At that point there seemed to be some confusion about which way to go.
We eventually got sorted out, heading over to Memorial. I followed another guy for awhile, and eventually struck up a conversation. At the suspension bridge to Prince's Island, we climbed the stairs and crossed, catching up to the group, and a couple of others, by the brass propeller.
And after a bit of stretching and stuff, I picked it up and headed back home.
Today's run
Distance: 9.17 km. Time: 50:10.
Average speed: 11.0 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 19C.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Mothers Day Run
I signed up for the Mothers Day Run at the last minute. Heather had told me ages ago about signing up, and that had got me thinking about it, too. So Wednesday night I signed up.
Weather-wise, it wasn't sounding good, but in this town you learn to not take Environment Canada too seriously. Slightly chilly, but clear and sunny. And the adrenalin took care of the chill.
I saw Heather briefly as I arrived, then went to wander a little and warm up. There soon was a small crowd with huge placards, looking a bit like a protest of some sort, except the placards said things like "6 min/km" and "Walkers". They spaced themselves along 9th Avenue and people immediately began to gather behind each one.
I wandered a little, trotted up and down the side of the street. Eventually I joined the group behind the 6 min/km sign. The trick at that point was to keep the chill off, and for that they had some kind of aerobics instructors up at the front leading the crowd. I couldn't see what they were doing where I was standing, but occasionally took the cue from the surrounding crowd.
Once we got started, it was a tight crowd going west on 9th. At 5th Street we went south, and I was passing a lot of people, wondering all the while if I was pushing too hard and when would I crash. But I kept it up.
Mostly it was good running. I felt really strong and probably not a little propped up by the adrenalin of a race, even a fun one. Down Elbow Drive,until going left at Lansdowne. After that, I have no idea where we went, as I don't know that part of town.
We did some out and back thing for a couple of blocks on one street, and then on to Mission Road and down to 4th Street. Coming off 25th Avenue were all the walkers, and suddenly the road got crowded. Us 10K runners had one lane, the 5K runners and the walkers had the other three. At times I took to the sidewalk, just to run on a reasonably flat surface. The cambre of the road in that one lane was pretty extreme and my ankles were feeling it.
At 10th Avenue they herded us eastward and I was wondering where the heck the finish was. We turned left at northbound Macleod, down the underpass toward city hall, and there it was. I sprinted the last block, and queued up for the food.
What a strong smooth run! Even a couple of hours later I feel great. But the GPS definitely got confused - it says I ran 12 km. I'll post my official time later.
Today's run
Distance: 10.0 km. Time: 53:10.
Average speed: 11.3 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Partly cloudy and 8C.
Weather-wise, it wasn't sounding good, but in this town you learn to not take Environment Canada too seriously. Slightly chilly, but clear and sunny. And the adrenalin took care of the chill.
I saw Heather briefly as I arrived, then went to wander a little and warm up. There soon was a small crowd with huge placards, looking a bit like a protest of some sort, except the placards said things like "6 min/km" and "Walkers". They spaced themselves along 9th Avenue and people immediately began to gather behind each one.
I wandered a little, trotted up and down the side of the street. Eventually I joined the group behind the 6 min/km sign. The trick at that point was to keep the chill off, and for that they had some kind of aerobics instructors up at the front leading the crowd. I couldn't see what they were doing where I was standing, but occasionally took the cue from the surrounding crowd.
Once we got started, it was a tight crowd going west on 9th. At 5th Street we went south, and I was passing a lot of people, wondering all the while if I was pushing too hard and when would I crash. But I kept it up.
Mostly it was good running. I felt really strong and probably not a little propped up by the adrenalin of a race, even a fun one. Down Elbow Drive,until going left at Lansdowne. After that, I have no idea where we went, as I don't know that part of town.
We did some out and back thing for a couple of blocks on one street, and then on to Mission Road and down to 4th Street. Coming off 25th Avenue were all the walkers, and suddenly the road got crowded. Us 10K runners had one lane, the 5K runners and the walkers had the other three. At times I took to the sidewalk, just to run on a reasonably flat surface. The cambre of the road in that one lane was pretty extreme and my ankles were feeling it.
At 10th Avenue they herded us eastward and I was wondering where the heck the finish was. We turned left at northbound Macleod, down the underpass toward city hall, and there it was. I sprinted the last block, and queued up for the food.
What a strong smooth run! Even a couple of hours later I feel great. But the GPS definitely got confused - it says I ran 12 km. I'll post my official time later.
Today's run
Distance: 10.0 km. Time: 53:10.
Average speed: 11.3 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Partly cloudy and 8C.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Must Be a Runner...
...to be running in this weather. Surprisingly, there are a lot of us.
When I got home from work, the rain was coming down pretty steadily, so I figured I would probably get a little damp on a run. But I changed into my running gear, and then my daughter called, and after all that, the rain had stopped.
I splish-splashed along the bluff and down The Path, which looked deserted. I passed a couple of runners on Prince's Island, and a couple more on the promenade. I continued to meet runners all along the path to 14th Street, and across, and on the way back.
Not too many cyclists, though.
At The Stairs, the bootcampers were back, though not too many. A hard push up the hill and then it was a skip along the red shale path on top of the bluff, dodging puddles and stuff.
Today's run
Distance: 7.16 km. Time: 39:55.
Average speed: 10.8 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light rainshower and 1C.
When I got home from work, the rain was coming down pretty steadily, so I figured I would probably get a little damp on a run. But I changed into my running gear, and then my daughter called, and after all that, the rain had stopped.
I splish-splashed along the bluff and down The Path, which looked deserted. I passed a couple of runners on Prince's Island, and a couple more on the promenade. I continued to meet runners all along the path to 14th Street, and across, and on the way back.
Not too many cyclists, though.
At The Stairs, the bootcampers were back, though not too many. A hard push up the hill and then it was a skip along the red shale path on top of the bluff, dodging puddles and stuff.
Today's run
Distance: 7.16 km. Time: 39:55.
Average speed: 10.8 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light rainshower and 1C.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Trying to Get Back
Tough run tonight. I felt a little tired, and very stiff. Everything seemed to hurt almost right off the start. But as usual, after awhile, when I got warmed up, it was much better.
The run itself, once I was into it, went really well. In fact I had great energy, and even powered up The Path Under The Stairs pretty hard.
Of the run itself, not much of it is memorable. The Path and The Stairs were crowded with bootcampers and other runners.
Maybe I need a change.
I forgot to plug the GPS in so it was still dead. Since I did the 14th Street loop, I'll use the same numbers as my last run, since it's the same distance and that's about my average speed.
Today's run
Distance: 7.00 km. Time: 40:00.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:43 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 8C.
The run itself, once I was into it, went really well. In fact I had great energy, and even powered up The Path Under The Stairs pretty hard.
Of the run itself, not much of it is memorable. The Path and The Stairs were crowded with bootcampers and other runners.
Maybe I need a change.
I forgot to plug the GPS in so it was still dead. Since I did the 14th Street loop, I'll use the same numbers as my last run, since it's the same distance and that's about my average speed.
Today's run
Distance: 7.00 km. Time: 40:00.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:43 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 8C.
Llingering in Lloyd
OK, so I'm overdoing the double L thing. But how often do I get to run in this town?
I'm a couple of days late with this one. After an early run, we checked out of the hotel, grabbed breakfast and hit the highway for home. After getting home late, no time to write it up. And yesterday, I had to go from work to a seminar that went late, and I had to get a few groceries, too. So here I am.
I was up early, as usual, so I got the running shorts out and tied on my shoes. I crossed the highway from the hotel, then headed west to the road that went south toward that park I ran in a couple of days before.
I had the GPS, but forgot to hit start until I was a couple of hundred metres down the street going south - maybe a kilometre from the hotel. I made note of a sign so I could measure the missing distance.
It wasn't nearly as far to the park as I had thought. About another kilometre, and I was at the park gate, which was locked up. I would have just stepped around the gate, but a security guard pulled up to unlock everything.
After that, I kept to the left. I missed that path that went past the maintenance facility, and kept going past the miniature golf course and the skateboard park. Past the aquatic centre to the pond. The ice had retreated some in the two days since I'd been there, but there was still lots.
Around the other side and past the bandshell/presentation stage I checked the GPS which said I'd gone just over three kilometres. I took a left on a paved trail into the bush.
At the barbeque shack I went left again, on an unpaved trail, but found another shortly after. On that, I ended up going past the deserted parking lot, and then past the tennis courts, through the sundial, and to the gate.
There sure is a lot of stuff there, for a park that size.
Back on the street, I retraced my steps north, and found my GPS had shut down, batteries depleted. Oh, well, I'll estimate. Near the hotel, I slowed to a walk, and thought about breakfast.
Today's run
Distance: 7.00 km. Time: 40:00.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:43 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and about 5C.
I'm a couple of days late with this one. After an early run, we checked out of the hotel, grabbed breakfast and hit the highway for home. After getting home late, no time to write it up. And yesterday, I had to go from work to a seminar that went late, and I had to get a few groceries, too. So here I am.
I was up early, as usual, so I got the running shorts out and tied on my shoes. I crossed the highway from the hotel, then headed west to the road that went south toward that park I ran in a couple of days before.
I had the GPS, but forgot to hit start until I was a couple of hundred metres down the street going south - maybe a kilometre from the hotel. I made note of a sign so I could measure the missing distance.
It wasn't nearly as far to the park as I had thought. About another kilometre, and I was at the park gate, which was locked up. I would have just stepped around the gate, but a security guard pulled up to unlock everything.
After that, I kept to the left. I missed that path that went past the maintenance facility, and kept going past the miniature golf course and the skateboard park. Past the aquatic centre to the pond. The ice had retreated some in the two days since I'd been there, but there was still lots.
Around the other side and past the bandshell/presentation stage I checked the GPS which said I'd gone just over three kilometres. I took a left on a paved trail into the bush.
At the barbeque shack I went left again, on an unpaved trail, but found another shortly after. On that, I ended up going past the deserted parking lot, and then past the tennis courts, through the sundial, and to the gate.
There sure is a lot of stuff there, for a park that size.
Back on the street, I retraced my steps north, and found my GPS had shut down, batteries depleted. Oh, well, I'll estimate. Near the hotel, I slowed to a walk, and thought about breakfast.
Today's run
Distance: 7.00 km. Time: 40:00.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:43 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and about 5C.
Friday, May 02, 2008
Llovely Lloydminster
I'm doing some traveling on family business and find myself in Lloydminster this afternoon, and using my daughter's Macbook to type this up. I asked about where to run at the front desk of the hotel, and they suggested Bud Miller All Seasons Park. Not too far to drive, so off I go.
Actually nowhere in this town is too far to drive, or even too far to walk, come to think of it. In retrospect, I could have got a decent run to the park from the hotel, without driving.
Anyway, I got to the park, parking in a large lot beside what I think is an aquatic centre. I headed started on a path along side the parking lot, and after a short brisk walk, started the run. The path soon took me past a tennis court, and then past this huge yellow pipe sticking out of the ground at a weird angle. There were these narrow paving brick paths radiating out from this thing, and it took a moment for me to realize that is was a humongous sundial.
After that, I crossed a muddy road, passed a maintenance shed, and crossed the road by the gate to the park. On the other side was another maintenance facility, and a little further on, a parking lot in front of what looked like a school or something. I ran across the front of it and found the path had disappeared. I backtracked and went around behind it to find a road that lead back toward the aquatic centre.
Past the side of the aquatic centre, and I found myself running along side a small lake that was mostly still frozen over. On the far side was a small amphitheatre with a white sail-like roof over it. Then a branch on the path took me through the aspen forest.
Just past a barbeque shack, I took an unpaved branch of the path and dodged mud and puddles, eventually getting back on another paved path. This one lead straight out of the park into the adjacent subdivision. So a hard right took me behind that and to a drainage ditch. The ditch lead back into the park, eventually flattening out at a soggy picnic area. Past that and its parking lot and I was back at the park gate.
So straight back past the aquatic centre, around the lake again, and this time at the barbeque shack I stayed on the paved path which lead past a maze. In a few years it'll be pretty cool, but right now, the hedge is only a couple of feet high.
And then I was back at the parking lot. Lovely little park, but small enough that I had to go around it twice to get some distance. In fact running to the park would have been a good run.
Today's run
Distance: 7.01 km. Time: 39:06.
Average speed: 10.8 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 13C.
Actually nowhere in this town is too far to drive, or even too far to walk, come to think of it. In retrospect, I could have got a decent run to the park from the hotel, without driving.
Anyway, I got to the park, parking in a large lot beside what I think is an aquatic centre. I headed started on a path along side the parking lot, and after a short brisk walk, started the run. The path soon took me past a tennis court, and then past this huge yellow pipe sticking out of the ground at a weird angle. There were these narrow paving brick paths radiating out from this thing, and it took a moment for me to realize that is was a humongous sundial.
After that, I crossed a muddy road, passed a maintenance shed, and crossed the road by the gate to the park. On the other side was another maintenance facility, and a little further on, a parking lot in front of what looked like a school or something. I ran across the front of it and found the path had disappeared. I backtracked and went around behind it to find a road that lead back toward the aquatic centre.
Past the side of the aquatic centre, and I found myself running along side a small lake that was mostly still frozen over. On the far side was a small amphitheatre with a white sail-like roof over it. Then a branch on the path took me through the aspen forest.
Just past a barbeque shack, I took an unpaved branch of the path and dodged mud and puddles, eventually getting back on another paved path. This one lead straight out of the park into the adjacent subdivision. So a hard right took me behind that and to a drainage ditch. The ditch lead back into the park, eventually flattening out at a soggy picnic area. Past that and its parking lot and I was back at the park gate.
So straight back past the aquatic centre, around the lake again, and this time at the barbeque shack I stayed on the paved path which lead past a maze. In a few years it'll be pretty cool, but right now, the hedge is only a couple of feet high.
And then I was back at the parking lot. Lovely little park, but small enough that I had to go around it twice to get some distance. In fact running to the park would have been a good run.
Today's run
Distance: 7.01 km. Time: 39:06.
Average speed: 10.8 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 13C.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Busy Out There!
There just seems to be more traffic tonight. Getting home was slower, crossing the street even took a little longer. And the side streets seem busier, too. But once on the paths, it was great.
I like it better when it's warmer. There are more people out, and there seems to be more life along the paths. There's always us diehard runners, and the all-weather cyclists. But there's more people walking home from work, or hanging out along the promenade.
Tonight seemed like a slow plod. My legs felt a little used up, and breathing was heavy like it can be sometimes. Nothing to do but push through with it. The Path Under The Stairs wasn't bad at all, for some reason. I managed to power up the whole thing without losing much speed or running out of breath.
But, yeah, a slow run.
Today's run
Distance: 6.46 km. Time: 39:45.
Average speed: 9.8 kph (6:09 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -3C.
I like it better when it's warmer. There are more people out, and there seems to be more life along the paths. There's always us diehard runners, and the all-weather cyclists. But there's more people walking home from work, or hanging out along the promenade.
Tonight seemed like a slow plod. My legs felt a little used up, and breathing was heavy like it can be sometimes. Nothing to do but push through with it. The Path Under The Stairs wasn't bad at all, for some reason. I managed to power up the whole thing without losing much speed or running out of breath.
But, yeah, a slow run.
Today's run
Distance: 6.46 km. Time: 39:45.
Average speed: 9.8 kph (6:09 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -3C.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Early and Fast
Wow, what a morning! It's stunning out with warm temps and lots of sun, and it's way, way overdue.
No word from Heather about running together, so I decided to get out early and go on my own. I think she's running in the Police Half, though I don't see her name in the list.
It was a little chilly to start, but then I was down to shorts and a t-shirt, determined to enjoy a summer-like run. Ten minutes into it, I was good.
I've missed running in the mornings. Lots of "good mornings" and smiles. People out having a good time on a sunny Sunday morning.
I did the usual route: down to the river, across Prince's Island, along the promenade and along Bow Trail to Crowchild where I crossed back to the north side. Then westward toward the foot bridge to Edworthy.
I noticed the sign on the washroom down there - "Point Mackay Washroom". That's its official name, and we're glad it's there. Some days, it's the reason the first half of my run is so fast, is when it's the goal.
Anyway, the run home was even faster today. I felt really good, even better than usual. I still feel good. I must have finally got the stretching thing down, plus goos sleep last night, and good breakfast - all of that stuff.
Distance: 16.20 km. Time: 1:24:26 Average speed: 11.5 kph. (5:26 min/km)
Rest distance: 959.0 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.16 km. Total time: 1:33:26.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 7C to start, ending sunny and 12C.
No word from Heather about running together, so I decided to get out early and go on my own. I think she's running in the Police Half, though I don't see her name in the list.
It was a little chilly to start, but then I was down to shorts and a t-shirt, determined to enjoy a summer-like run. Ten minutes into it, I was good.
I've missed running in the mornings. Lots of "good mornings" and smiles. People out having a good time on a sunny Sunday morning.
I did the usual route: down to the river, across Prince's Island, along the promenade and along Bow Trail to Crowchild where I crossed back to the north side. Then westward toward the foot bridge to Edworthy.
I noticed the sign on the washroom down there - "Point Mackay Washroom". That's its official name, and we're glad it's there. Some days, it's the reason the first half of my run is so fast, is when it's the goal.
Anyway, the run home was even faster today. I felt really good, even better than usual. I still feel good. I must have finally got the stretching thing down, plus goos sleep last night, and good breakfast - all of that stuff.
Distance: 16.20 km. Time: 1:24:26 Average speed: 11.5 kph. (5:26 min/km)
Rest distance: 959.0 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.16 km. Total time: 1:33:26.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 7C to start, ending sunny and 12C.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
It's Been a Long 5 Minutes...
It's been cold and snowy for a week now. It's supposed to be much better on the weekend, and I hope so, cuz I wanna run in shorts!
I was only going to go as far as 14th Street, but it felt good tonight. So I kept going. Got into a little traffic jam on the bridge under Crowchild between me and a bunch of cyclists. Too many going both ways.
After that, just bear down and head home. Another traffic jam in Prince's Island Park, on The Path Under The Stairs, and on The Stairs, with all the bootcamp groups out. I wonder if they get in each others' way sometimes.
Back home, ho-hum. I hope I can soon be out in the sun, maybe even getting in some nooners.
Today's run
Distance: 10.06 km. Time: 56:03.
Average speed: 10.8 kph (5:34 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -3C.
I was only going to go as far as 14th Street, but it felt good tonight. So I kept going. Got into a little traffic jam on the bridge under Crowchild between me and a bunch of cyclists. Too many going both ways.
After that, just bear down and head home. Another traffic jam in Prince's Island Park, on The Path Under The Stairs, and on The Stairs, with all the bootcamp groups out. I wonder if they get in each others' way sometimes.
Back home, ho-hum. I hope I can soon be out in the sun, maybe even getting in some nooners.
Today's run
Distance: 10.06 km. Time: 56:03.
Average speed: 10.8 kph (5:34 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -3C.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Winter is Over - Again!
It's all melting and slushy, but most of the paths are clear. In some places there are puddles, and some of them are big. I stomped in a big one on the 14th Street bridge, which I didn't think was as deep as it was. Big splash, and of course the stomping foot stays dry, while the wave it creates washes over the other foot as it swings forward.
After that, more slush, more puddles, but lots of dry pavement.
I finished via the Centre Street bridge again. I like Nony's Awful Little Hill and it stretches the run a little farther than The Path. Plus there's getting to be a lot of traffic on The Path, and at both ends of The Stairs, with all the bootcamp groups.
Nice run, and I even got close to dressing right for the weather. We'll be back to shorts soon.
Today's run
Distance: 7.61 km. Time: 42:47.
Average speed: 10.7 kph (5:37 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Drifting snow and -8C.
After that, more slush, more puddles, but lots of dry pavement.
I finished via the Centre Street bridge again. I like Nony's Awful Little Hill and it stretches the run a little farther than The Path. Plus there's getting to be a lot of traffic on The Path, and at both ends of The Stairs, with all the bootcamp groups.
Nice run, and I even got close to dressing right for the weather. We'll be back to shorts soon.
Today's run
Distance: 7.61 km. Time: 42:47.
Average speed: 10.7 kph (5:37 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Drifting snow and -8C.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Winter Again
48 hours of snow, starting Friday morning, and it's piled up rather impressively. Gonna be an interesting commute tomorrow.
But the paths were clear, and what solar radiation reached the ground rather efficiently melted any ice and snow wasn't scraped off. There were only a fe spots where the ice made it dicey.
I didn't get to the big distance run today. In fact, I haven't been feeling all that wonderful the past few days, so I decided not to push it. No energy for a long run anyway.
Just to mix it up a little, I crossed the river at the C-Train bridge, ran down to 14th Street and crossed back, then crossed at the C-Train bridge again - a sort of figure eight loop. For fun I watched the GPS on the crossings. 14th Street is 190 metres end to end, while the C-Train bridge is only 120 metres.
It's cold, but not as cold as it looks. I was way over dressed again, although the wind added a rather rapid cooling dimension.
Today's run
Distance: 7.35 km. Time: 43:18.
Average speed: 10.2 kph (5:53 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Drifting snow and -8C.
But the paths were clear, and what solar radiation reached the ground rather efficiently melted any ice and snow wasn't scraped off. There were only a fe spots where the ice made it dicey.
I didn't get to the big distance run today. In fact, I haven't been feeling all that wonderful the past few days, so I decided not to push it. No energy for a long run anyway.
Just to mix it up a little, I crossed the river at the C-Train bridge, ran down to 14th Street and crossed back, then crossed at the C-Train bridge again - a sort of figure eight loop. For fun I watched the GPS on the crossings. 14th Street is 190 metres end to end, while the C-Train bridge is only 120 metres.
It's cold, but not as cold as it looks. I was way over dressed again, although the wind added a rather rapid cooling dimension.
Today's run
Distance: 7.35 km. Time: 43:18.
Average speed: 10.2 kph (5:53 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Drifting snow and -8C.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Crappy and Cold
Not really, but it sure isn't shorts and t-shirt weather. That doesn't help when the motivation is just not happening. It's been hard enough to get out when it's nice. Add to that my consternation that I've had to admit that those extra calories that accumulated over the Christmas holiday are still hanging on, and it just ain't been the most uplifting of days.
But I was out there. Down to the bluff, and as I approached, at least five runners went by, so I was thinking that hey, I'm not so crazy after all. But it was one of those bootcamp type groups that hang out on The Stairs. Going down The Path, I encountered a few more goose stepping uphill, including one with a somewhat confused looking golden retriever.
Across Memorial and down the ramp to the trail on the berm, it was much quieter. I was out a little late, but I thought I'd run into more of the after-dinner crowd. I guess the weather was keeping the less enthused at home.
I crossed at 14th, ran along Bow Trail and the promenade to Eau Claire, and just to dodge the bootcamp traffic, kept going east and then up on the Centre Street bridge. It adds about 400 m to the run, but I also get to avoid The Path Under The Stairs, and aside from the traffic, sometimes it's just a nasty steep bitch. Well, and I was feeling a little lazy about hills, too.
Anyway, I was back home shortly after, and stretching on my front step. It didn't seem so cold and crabby then. Running does that.
Today's run
Distance: 7.40 km. Time: 41:56.
Average speed: 10.6 kph (5:40 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 1C.
But I was out there. Down to the bluff, and as I approached, at least five runners went by, so I was thinking that hey, I'm not so crazy after all. But it was one of those bootcamp type groups that hang out on The Stairs. Going down The Path, I encountered a few more goose stepping uphill, including one with a somewhat confused looking golden retriever.
Across Memorial and down the ramp to the trail on the berm, it was much quieter. I was out a little late, but I thought I'd run into more of the after-dinner crowd. I guess the weather was keeping the less enthused at home.
I crossed at 14th, ran along Bow Trail and the promenade to Eau Claire, and just to dodge the bootcamp traffic, kept going east and then up on the Centre Street bridge. It adds about 400 m to the run, but I also get to avoid The Path Under The Stairs, and aside from the traffic, sometimes it's just a nasty steep bitch. Well, and I was feeling a little lazy about hills, too.
Anyway, I was back home shortly after, and stretching on my front step. It didn't seem so cold and crabby then. Running does that.
Today's run
Distance: 7.40 km. Time: 41:56.
Average speed: 10.6 kph (5:40 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 1C.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Where'd the Week Go?
I haven't been able to get out all week, what with all kinds of stuff going on. There were some medical issues with a family member earlier in the week, but it's all better now. But it was exhausting all the same.
So today was the first run in a week, and I probably should have taken it a little easier. But I went for the distance anyway. It's actually hot out, and people are everywhere.
I was running the south side of the river dodging walkers and bikers and bladers, just enjoying the run. The cloud had been hovering all morning, with the chinook arch holding a little to the west, and ever so slowly edging east. By the time I got to Crowchild and crossed back to the north side, it had slid far enough to let the sun come down.
I'd called Heather yesterday to see if she was up for joining me. She'd been in Vancouver and Mexico and a few other places the last few weeks, so we haven't run together for awhile. Since I hadn't heard back from her I figured she was either tied up or still out of town. So it was with some surprise that I met her about two kilometres into the return leg from Edworthy.
She'd been busy all weekend and hadn't got my message until quite late, and also thought I'd be out in the morning, so hadn't tried to call. She joined me on the return run and we caught up on what's been happening with each other for the last month or so.
By the time we reached 14th Street, I was in some pain. I've had stomach cramps before on runs, those nasty stitches that stab in the ribs. Usually they go away after ten minutes or so, but today they were hanging on. Perhaps it was in sympathy of Heather's reaction to all that spicy food when she was in Mexico a couple of weeks ago, but it got quite difficult to keep going.
We got to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, and shared a sweaty hug. And then I walked home. I can only remember one other time that I haven't completed a run, but I just didn't feel up to running The Path from that point.
Still a great run, though, with good speed and distance.
Distance: 14.74 km. Time: 1:23:16 Average speed: 10.6 kph. (5:26 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.05 km. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 15.79 km. Total time: 1:32:16.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 18C to start, ending mostly cloudy and 22C.
So today was the first run in a week, and I probably should have taken it a little easier. But I went for the distance anyway. It's actually hot out, and people are everywhere.
I was running the south side of the river dodging walkers and bikers and bladers, just enjoying the run. The cloud had been hovering all morning, with the chinook arch holding a little to the west, and ever so slowly edging east. By the time I got to Crowchild and crossed back to the north side, it had slid far enough to let the sun come down.
I'd called Heather yesterday to see if she was up for joining me. She'd been in Vancouver and Mexico and a few other places the last few weeks, so we haven't run together for awhile. Since I hadn't heard back from her I figured she was either tied up or still out of town. So it was with some surprise that I met her about two kilometres into the return leg from Edworthy.
She'd been busy all weekend and hadn't got my message until quite late, and also thought I'd be out in the morning, so hadn't tried to call. She joined me on the return run and we caught up on what's been happening with each other for the last month or so.
By the time we reached 14th Street, I was in some pain. I've had stomach cramps before on runs, those nasty stitches that stab in the ribs. Usually they go away after ten minutes or so, but today they were hanging on. Perhaps it was in sympathy of Heather's reaction to all that spicy food when she was in Mexico a couple of weeks ago, but it got quite difficult to keep going.
We got to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, and shared a sweaty hug. And then I walked home. I can only remember one other time that I haven't completed a run, but I just didn't feel up to running The Path from that point.
Still a great run, though, with good speed and distance.
Distance: 14.74 km. Time: 1:23:16 Average speed: 10.6 kph. (5:26 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.05 km. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 15.79 km. Total time: 1:32:16.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 18C to start, ending mostly cloudy and 22C.
Sunday, April 06, 2008
"Waiting Five Minutes More..."
A stunning morning, sunny with a light fog that burned off quickly. It would be a wonderful day for a run. I dealt with some errands all morning, and about noon, changed into running duds and headed for the reservoir.
I parked at the end of Crowchild by the rowing club again. A breeze was blowing from the east, and it had a touch of iciness to it. In the west, the mountains were disappearing behind low grey cloud.
This time I headed north through Lakeview toward the causeway, then over Glenmore and around to the dam. A little over twenty minutes and I was at the hospital. By forty minutes I was at Glenmore landing, and at fifty I was at the marina on the south side. Looking across the reservoir at these places from my starting point, I thought it would be a lot longer, but of course there's still about forty minutes of running to get back to the car.
The cool thing about spring is the wildlife waking up and coming out to check things out. Which lead to a game of chicken with a red squirrel. He was sitting on the trail munching on something, and at first I thought he'd bolt for the bush long before I got there. But he just sat there
Gotta go, I'll finish this later
=======
It's a week later, and I can't remember what I was writing. It's been a bit of a mixed up week.
My stats:
Distance: 15.63 km. Time: 1:23:51 Average speed: 11.2 kph. (5:22 min/km)
Rest distance: 912.4 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 16.54 km. Total time: 1:32:51.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Pretty nice, I think.
I parked at the end of Crowchild by the rowing club again. A breeze was blowing from the east, and it had a touch of iciness to it. In the west, the mountains were disappearing behind low grey cloud.
This time I headed north through Lakeview toward the causeway, then over Glenmore and around to the dam. A little over twenty minutes and I was at the hospital. By forty minutes I was at Glenmore landing, and at fifty I was at the marina on the south side. Looking across the reservoir at these places from my starting point, I thought it would be a lot longer, but of course there's still about forty minutes of running to get back to the car.
The cool thing about spring is the wildlife waking up and coming out to check things out. Which lead to a game of chicken with a red squirrel. He was sitting on the trail munching on something, and at first I thought he'd bolt for the bush long before I got there. But he just sat there
Gotta go, I'll finish this later
=======
It's a week later, and I can't remember what I was writing. It's been a bit of a mixed up week.
My stats:
Distance: 15.63 km. Time: 1:23:51 Average speed: 11.2 kph. (5:22 min/km)
Rest distance: 912.4 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 16.54 km. Total time: 1:32:51.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Pretty nice, I think.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Back in Shorts Again
I just proved the adage that you never gain going with the wind what you lost going into it. There's a bit of a breeze for sure, strong enough to get those heavy duty wind chimes by The Pumphouse going. They're made from heavy rebar and it takes a pretty stiff wind to get them going - like tonight.
But warm enough for shorts and a tee - I love it. Once I was turned around and running with the wind, I even felt a little over-dressed, with a regular tee over a long sleeve technical one.
Anyway, a nice run to Crowchild and back. But I see the geese are beginning to make their presence known, what with the leavings of their gastro intestinal issues everywhere - ewww!
Today's run
Distance: 9.98 km. Time: 57:00.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:43 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 10C.
But warm enough for shorts and a tee - I love it. Once I was turned around and running with the wind, I even felt a little over-dressed, with a regular tee over a long sleeve technical one.
Anyway, a nice run to Crowchild and back. But I see the geese are beginning to make their presence known, what with the leavings of their gastro intestinal issues everywhere - ewww!
Today's run
Distance: 9.98 km. Time: 57:00.
Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:43 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 10C.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Smoggy But Fun (Oh, and Gummy, too)
I'm feeling really good right now, and about time. The weekend was a little challenging as far as feeling good.
It was a really fun evening, and I even got a couple of hellos and some eye contact. That lifted the mood considerably, since there are still a lot of inward looking types out there. Must be the weather.
Flavour-wise, the air was a little bleah. Some of the more obnoxious exhausts seemed to hang over the running paths, often thick enough to taste. There was a breeze, but it didn't seem to have enough oomph to move the stuff.
The geese are back on the paths, too, cranky as ever. Gulls are piling up on the river, and the river is pretty much ice-free. The water level is down about a metre, if the ice shelf along the shore is any indication.
I haven't joined the ranks of iPod and MP3 users yet, but I do all right. My head can keep me going with a tune or two as I run. Last night, when I probably should have been going to bed, I was sampling a little of the 3-D animation on YouTube, and ran across this one. (Click the More link on the right for the words.) Not nearly as irritating as the damn gopher song, but it sticks the same. The beat isn't too bad to run to.
Today's run
Distance: 10.42 km. Time: 55:26.
Average speed: 11.3 kph (5:19 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Partly cloudy and 3C.
It was a really fun evening, and I even got a couple of hellos and some eye contact. That lifted the mood considerably, since there are still a lot of inward looking types out there. Must be the weather.
Flavour-wise, the air was a little bleah. Some of the more obnoxious exhausts seemed to hang over the running paths, often thick enough to taste. There was a breeze, but it didn't seem to have enough oomph to move the stuff.
The geese are back on the paths, too, cranky as ever. Gulls are piling up on the river, and the river is pretty much ice-free. The water level is down about a metre, if the ice shelf along the shore is any indication.
I haven't joined the ranks of iPod and MP3 users yet, but I do all right. My head can keep me going with a tune or two as I run. Last night, when I probably should have been going to bed, I was sampling a little of the 3-D animation on YouTube, and ran across this one. (Click the More link on the right for the words.) Not nearly as irritating as the damn gopher song, but it sticks the same. The beat isn't too bad to run to.
Today's run
Distance: 10.42 km. Time: 55:26.
Average speed: 11.3 kph (5:19 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Partly cloudy and 3C.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Snowy and a Little Splishy-Splashy
Wotta surprise this morning - all this snow! I woke up a little early, thinking it was a lot later, cuz it seemed so bright out. But it was just the street lighting bouncing between the low cloud and about 20 cm of new snow, and it was still coming down.
I got out a little after noon, into the last few flakes. Breaks in the cloud cover had already let the sun at a lot of the snow, and melting was well underway, which was good cuz those side streets are hell to run on when they're icy.
By the time I got to the bottom of The Path Under The Stairs, there were actually dry stretches of path, although the foot bridge was a little slushy. Across the river it was all dry pavement.
I was in great shape today, feeling fast and energetic. At the thirty minute mark I was across the Crowchild bridge and on the trail heading west toward Edworthy. Not a lot of runners out, but it was by no means lonely. Occasionally the traffic would attempt to spray the unwary from a pothole full of water.
After a bathroom break, I circled Angel's Cafe and headed back, still with lots of energy. I don't know what that was all about but I felt like I was back at The Path in near record time. I powered up The Path and along the bluff to 4th Street, then back towards home.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.14 km. Time: 1:27:35 Average speed: 11.1 kph. (5:26 min/km)
Rest distance: 998.5 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.14 km. Total time: 1:36:35.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light snow and -8C to start, ending with cloud and -6C.
I got out a little after noon, into the last few flakes. Breaks in the cloud cover had already let the sun at a lot of the snow, and melting was well underway, which was good cuz those side streets are hell to run on when they're icy.
By the time I got to the bottom of The Path Under The Stairs, there were actually dry stretches of path, although the foot bridge was a little slushy. Across the river it was all dry pavement.
I was in great shape today, feeling fast and energetic. At the thirty minute mark I was across the Crowchild bridge and on the trail heading west toward Edworthy. Not a lot of runners out, but it was by no means lonely. Occasionally the traffic would attempt to spray the unwary from a pothole full of water.
After a bathroom break, I circled Angel's Cafe and headed back, still with lots of energy. I don't know what that was all about but I felt like I was back at The Path in near record time. I powered up The Path and along the bluff to 4th Street, then back towards home.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.14 km. Time: 1:27:35 Average speed: 11.1 kph. (5:26 min/km)
Rest distance: 998.5 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.14 km. Total time: 1:36:35.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light snow and -8C to start, ending with cloud and -6C.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Another Run
Titling is a challenge. If there isn't anything special about the run, then what does one say about it?
A good run, but pretty standard. I did the 10 km loop to Crowchild and back.
I don't think I'm stuck in a rut, exactly, but perhaps running has become so routine for me that I'm not noticing much? Not true, of course.
Mostly I notice the lack of eye contact from other runners at this time of day. Is everyone just fried from a long work day and wanting to turn inward? It's one of the things that has always drawn me to run along the river, and the Sunday morning runs are wonderful for that.
Economic issues? Certainly lots to be concerned about there, I suppose. I'll have to watch this for awhile.
Today's run
Distance: 10.10 km. Time: 55:16.
Average speed: 11.0 kph (5:28 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 5C.
A good run, but pretty standard. I did the 10 km loop to Crowchild and back.
I don't think I'm stuck in a rut, exactly, but perhaps running has become so routine for me that I'm not noticing much? Not true, of course.
Mostly I notice the lack of eye contact from other runners at this time of day. Is everyone just fried from a long work day and wanting to turn inward? It's one of the things that has always drawn me to run along the river, and the Sunday morning runs are wonderful for that.
Economic issues? Certainly lots to be concerned about there, I suppose. I'll have to watch this for awhile.
Today's run
Distance: 10.10 km. Time: 55:16.
Average speed: 11.0 kph (5:28 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 5C.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
The Reservoir
Just to shake things up a little, I thought I'd try a circuit of the Glenmore Reservoir. It's supposed to be about 17 km around, so that would be a perfect distance, roughly the same as run to Edworthy and back from my home.
It took a little while to get organized - nothing like turning around to go home to get the forgotten stuff, but it only happened once (this time...). I drove straight down Crowchild to the very end, parking in North Glenmore Park near the Rowing Club clubhouse.
Nony and I had run this a couple of times last year, just across the Weaselhead Flats and back. It started out cloudy and cool, but I realized I was overdressed (again!) after a half a kilometre. And once down the hill and on the flats, the sun was out and it really started to warm up. Too chicken to dress light, or too dumb to wear layers.
But it wasn't that bad. A little ice was still on the north side, just before the big hill, since that part is so sheltered. At the top it was straight slogging to the Sailing Club. And a little ways past that, I was in new territory.
I'd walked this stretch, toward Glenmore Landing, last year (or maybe the year before) and hadn't really gone that far. I knew there was construction to get around and that parts of the trail were closed because of that. A friend had walked it a couple of weeks ago, and he had filled me in on it. Once I got to Heritage Park it was a little confusing, but I quickly sorted it out.
Across the parking lot, through Eagle Ridge, and behind the Rockyview hospital, and then on the overpass over the off ramp from east-bound Glenmore to south-bound 14th Street. Once I was across and looking back at the construction on Glenmore, I noticed the loop under the overpass and along side Glenmore causeway. That probably would have taken a couple of kilometres off, but what the heck, I was out for distance.
Over the dam and it's noisy piping (a gurgly 36" that blocks the view to the north from the top of the dam), then up along side the water treatment plant and the tennis academy, and I was following the fence around the Lakeview Golf Club. Over the floating overpass (it said FLOATING in big letters on the span over Glenmore), then on the other side I stayed left.
That took me along side the Earl Grey Golf Club, and added to my distance a little, since I got a little lost in the suburban cresents around there. But I finally got back to the path, and after that, it was down the side of Crowchild to the rowing club house, and my car.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.15 km. Time: 1:32:44 Average speed: 10.4 kph. (5:45 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.02 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.16 km. Total time: 1:42:44.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 4C to start, ending with sun and 12C.
It took a little while to get organized - nothing like turning around to go home to get the forgotten stuff, but it only happened once (this time...). I drove straight down Crowchild to the very end, parking in North Glenmore Park near the Rowing Club clubhouse.
Nony and I had run this a couple of times last year, just across the Weaselhead Flats and back. It started out cloudy and cool, but I realized I was overdressed (again!) after a half a kilometre. And once down the hill and on the flats, the sun was out and it really started to warm up. Too chicken to dress light, or too dumb to wear layers.
But it wasn't that bad. A little ice was still on the north side, just before the big hill, since that part is so sheltered. At the top it was straight slogging to the Sailing Club. And a little ways past that, I was in new territory.
I'd walked this stretch, toward Glenmore Landing, last year (or maybe the year before) and hadn't really gone that far. I knew there was construction to get around and that parts of the trail were closed because of that. A friend had walked it a couple of weeks ago, and he had filled me in on it. Once I got to Heritage Park it was a little confusing, but I quickly sorted it out.
Across the parking lot, through Eagle Ridge, and behind the Rockyview hospital, and then on the overpass over the off ramp from east-bound Glenmore to south-bound 14th Street. Once I was across and looking back at the construction on Glenmore, I noticed the loop under the overpass and along side Glenmore causeway. That probably would have taken a couple of kilometres off, but what the heck, I was out for distance.
Over the dam and it's noisy piping (a gurgly 36" that blocks the view to the north from the top of the dam), then up along side the water treatment plant and the tennis academy, and I was following the fence around the Lakeview Golf Club. Over the floating overpass (it said FLOATING in big letters on the span over Glenmore), then on the other side I stayed left.
That took me along side the Earl Grey Golf Club, and added to my distance a little, since I got a little lost in the suburban cresents around there. But I finally got back to the path, and after that, it was down the side of Crowchild to the rowing club house, and my car.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.15 km. Time: 1:32:44 Average speed: 10.4 kph. (5:45 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.02 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.16 km. Total time: 1:42:44.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 4C to start, ending with sun and 12C.
Friday, March 21, 2008
A Dead Battery and a Nice Trip
Just to say, I did get out last Tuesday, and then didn't get around to writing about it. I also left the Garmin on, with the intention of writing it up, but there ya go. I believe it was a very nice run, though I can't remember much of it.
I also intended to go last night as soon as I got home from work, but I just didn't have the energy. For a short week, it was pretty long and stressful.
So I went this morning after giving breakfast plenty of time to settle. Absolutely a beautiful morning, clear and sunny. I went with shorts and tee, although that light breeze from the northwest had me thinking second thoughts about that decision. It didn't take long to get warm though.
The paths were not as busy as I thought they would be, but then I was out pretty late in the morning. Even so, there were a lot of runners out. On the back side of the run, the south side of the river, there's a retaining wall that holds the path up beside the river. There's also a strip of green between the path and Bow Trail (well, hopefully it'll be green in a month or two). Bike and foot traffic has made a path that goes onto this green space and up against the guard rail along Bow Trail, and I've always noticed the end of it, but never the start.
So today I did see it, and decided to try it out for a little variety. Glancing at the Garmin (it said I'd run 6.04 km) was when a protruding boulder rammed the toe of my shoe, and in stretching to keep my balance, I could feel the over-extension in the hip flexor. This is the one that troubled me so much after the Vancouver marathon.
It took a couple of hundred metres of running a little slower to work out the kinks in that, but it felt fine after that, And then, just as I approached the 10th Street underpass, the Garmin seemed stuck on 6.39 metres. I glanced at it after I passed under 10th Street, and by then it had shut down, completely drained of power. I'm surprised it lasted as long as it did, given that I left it on the other day and it probably ran out of juice from that.
So instead of taking Centre Street and Nony's Awful Little Hill, I stuck to The Path Under The Stairs, since I know almost exactly how much distance that gives me. (There are always excuses to shorten a run, and for some reason this time I succumbed to it. I can also tell myself that I'm saving myself for the Sunday long run)
Still a great run, and it feels great to be in shorts and t-shirts again.
Tuesday's run:
Distance: 7.10 km. Time: 38:31.
Average speed: 11.1 kph (5:25 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: I think it was pretty nice out.
Today's run (Est. from data present when the Garmin died)
Distance: 10.00 km. Time: 53:50.
Average speed: 11.1 kph (5:23 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 10C with a 41 km wind gusting to 58 km.
I also intended to go last night as soon as I got home from work, but I just didn't have the energy. For a short week, it was pretty long and stressful.
So I went this morning after giving breakfast plenty of time to settle. Absolutely a beautiful morning, clear and sunny. I went with shorts and tee, although that light breeze from the northwest had me thinking second thoughts about that decision. It didn't take long to get warm though.
The paths were not as busy as I thought they would be, but then I was out pretty late in the morning. Even so, there were a lot of runners out. On the back side of the run, the south side of the river, there's a retaining wall that holds the path up beside the river. There's also a strip of green between the path and Bow Trail (well, hopefully it'll be green in a month or two). Bike and foot traffic has made a path that goes onto this green space and up against the guard rail along Bow Trail, and I've always noticed the end of it, but never the start.
So today I did see it, and decided to try it out for a little variety. Glancing at the Garmin (it said I'd run 6.04 km) was when a protruding boulder rammed the toe of my shoe, and in stretching to keep my balance, I could feel the over-extension in the hip flexor. This is the one that troubled me so much after the Vancouver marathon.
It took a couple of hundred metres of running a little slower to work out the kinks in that, but it felt fine after that, And then, just as I approached the 10th Street underpass, the Garmin seemed stuck on 6.39 metres. I glanced at it after I passed under 10th Street, and by then it had shut down, completely drained of power. I'm surprised it lasted as long as it did, given that I left it on the other day and it probably ran out of juice from that.
So instead of taking Centre Street and Nony's Awful Little Hill, I stuck to The Path Under The Stairs, since I know almost exactly how much distance that gives me. (There are always excuses to shorten a run, and for some reason this time I succumbed to it. I can also tell myself that I'm saving myself for the Sunday long run)
Still a great run, and it feels great to be in shorts and t-shirts again.
Tuesday's run:
Distance: 7.10 km. Time: 38:31.
Average speed: 11.1 kph (5:25 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: I think it was pretty nice out.
Today's run (Est. from data present when the Garmin died)
Distance: 10.00 km. Time: 53:50.
Average speed: 11.1 kph (5:23 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 10C with a 41 km wind gusting to 58 km.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Another Instance of "Wait 5 Minutes..."
Cold and snowy, even kinda miserable. The snow started last night, thick, wet and fluffy, making the roads sloppy and piling up on the unpaved parts of the city. I had to drive to the south and back in the middle of it, and it wasn't fun, mostly cuz there's always some daredevil on Deerfoot that doesn't believe in the laws of physics.
On top of all this, I've had to deal with the loss of a family pet. It was a late Friday night vigil at the pet hospital, having to make a decision that all pet owners eventually have to make. Emotionally draining and I'm still dragging my backside after two attempts at a good night's sleep.
I have some things to attend to this afternoon and wanted to get an early start on the run, like first thing in the morning. Heather, my running mate, isn't a morning runner, so I was solo today.
Anyway, the sidestreets are icy as heck, so running was in little short steps to keep from slipping. Even under the snow it was slippery. The foot bridge to Prince's Island hadn't been cleaned and it was more like running on loose dirt, where it rolled out from underfoot and had me a little off balance. It wasn't going to be a fast run.
Once on the promenade by Eau Claire, the way had been cleared of snow, but that just exposed a rough and uneven layer of ice on the pavement. The St. Patrick's day run was set up, and I passed a few runners with bib numbers warming up. The kilometre markers were set up along the path as were the orange cones to mark the route.
I crossed back to the north side of the river at Crowchild, slipping through more orange cones. About a kilometre on, volunteers were trying to keep warm and out of the wind at the race's turnaround point. I kept going.
I did the usual quick turn around Angel's Cafe and crunched back along the path. Lots of runners out. We seem to be a hardy bunch (or a crazy bunch, as some would consider us).
At the race turn-around, a huge crowd of racers were looping around a stand of spruce trees while the volunteers cheered them on. Several of us other runners melded into the group, and for the rest of the run up to 10th Street, I was running in a crowd. That was were my energy lifted a little and I was actually passing people.
At 10th, the race crossed the river, while I kept going along Memorial. I could feel the energy leave me, and I shuffled up The Path Under The Stairs and toward home.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.12 km. Time: 1:33:26. Average speed: 10.4 kph. (5:48 min/km)
Rest distance: 973.3 m. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.09 km. Total time: 1:43:26.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -13C to start, ending with light snow and -12C.
On top of all this, I've had to deal with the loss of a family pet. It was a late Friday night vigil at the pet hospital, having to make a decision that all pet owners eventually have to make. Emotionally draining and I'm still dragging my backside after two attempts at a good night's sleep.
I have some things to attend to this afternoon and wanted to get an early start on the run, like first thing in the morning. Heather, my running mate, isn't a morning runner, so I was solo today.
Anyway, the sidestreets are icy as heck, so running was in little short steps to keep from slipping. Even under the snow it was slippery. The foot bridge to Prince's Island hadn't been cleaned and it was more like running on loose dirt, where it rolled out from underfoot and had me a little off balance. It wasn't going to be a fast run.
Once on the promenade by Eau Claire, the way had been cleared of snow, but that just exposed a rough and uneven layer of ice on the pavement. The St. Patrick's day run was set up, and I passed a few runners with bib numbers warming up. The kilometre markers were set up along the path as were the orange cones to mark the route.
I crossed back to the north side of the river at Crowchild, slipping through more orange cones. About a kilometre on, volunteers were trying to keep warm and out of the wind at the race's turnaround point. I kept going.
I did the usual quick turn around Angel's Cafe and crunched back along the path. Lots of runners out. We seem to be a hardy bunch (or a crazy bunch, as some would consider us).
At the race turn-around, a huge crowd of racers were looping around a stand of spruce trees while the volunteers cheered them on. Several of us other runners melded into the group, and for the rest of the run up to 10th Street, I was running in a crowd. That was were my energy lifted a little and I was actually passing people.
At 10th, the race crossed the river, while I kept going along Memorial. I could feel the energy leave me, and I shuffled up The Path Under The Stairs and toward home.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.12 km. Time: 1:33:26. Average speed: 10.4 kph. (5:48 min/km)
Rest distance: 973.3 m. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.09 km. Total time: 1:43:26.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -13C to start, ending with light snow and -12C.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Windy and Whooshy
Kinda breezy out there tonight, but it wasn't cold at all. I was watching the temperature drop late in the afternoon, but that fall has stalled. Nice.
I ran the 10 km loop down to Crowchild again. Lots of dust and detritus in the air. It would be nice to be able to breath hard through the nose, but the best I could do was time inhales between gusts. Naw, it wasn't really that bad.
A few other runners, lotsa bikers. Even with the warmer weather, no one makes eye contact. A couple of runners did, but they are a tiny minority. It's much different running at noon downtown, or on the weekends.
The runs lately have been great. For the most part, I've been feeling really good out there. Tonight continues that, so much that I've been thinking of getting back into a race or two.
Distance: 10.21 km. Time: 56:20.
Average speed: 10.9 kph (5:31 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 10C with a 41 km wind gusting to 58 km.
I ran the 10 km loop down to Crowchild again. Lots of dust and detritus in the air. It would be nice to be able to breath hard through the nose, but the best I could do was time inhales between gusts. Naw, it wasn't really that bad.
A few other runners, lotsa bikers. Even with the warmer weather, no one makes eye contact. A couple of runners did, but they are a tiny minority. It's much different running at noon downtown, or on the weekends.
The runs lately have been great. For the most part, I've been feeling really good out there. Tonight continues that, so much that I've been thinking of getting back into a race or two.
Distance: 10.21 km. Time: 56:20.
Average speed: 10.9 kph (5:31 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 10C with a 41 km wind gusting to 58 km.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Sweet Sunday Afternoon
Heather suggested we try running in the afternoon, so the morning was spent doing errands. Every moment outside was a teaser for the run. It's been so nice out, I couldn't wait to get on the paths.
I got to her place with shorts and t-shirt, a little early and certainly eager to get going. And this time was the same route wise, but what a wonderful run! We both seem to have energy to spare, and much of the run was effortless.
The weather had just about everyone who owns bike, blade, runner or walking shoe out on the paths. It was almost crowded. Past the Extreme Bean coffee shop, we were constantly being passed by bikes and roller blades.
At the bridge to Edworthy, we rounded Angel's Cafe and headed back on the other path, since the ice was almost gone, but the walking traffic was so heavy that we ended up on the grass between the paths, occasionally dodging the low spots where the melt water was accumulating.
We decided to extend the run today, and once we got to the 14th Street bridge, we kept going. We were synced with the crossing lights at 10th, and just past that, we crossed the river under the C-Train bridge.
At 14th, it was up on top, and south toward her place, and we slowed to a satisfied walk for the last block. A great run, with great energy, and a stunningly glorious day.
Distance: 12.78 km. Time: 1:14:29.
Average speed: 10.3 kph (5:50 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 10C.
I got to her place with shorts and t-shirt, a little early and certainly eager to get going. And this time was the same route wise, but what a wonderful run! We both seem to have energy to spare, and much of the run was effortless.
The weather had just about everyone who owns bike, blade, runner or walking shoe out on the paths. It was almost crowded. Past the Extreme Bean coffee shop, we were constantly being passed by bikes and roller blades.
At the bridge to Edworthy, we rounded Angel's Cafe and headed back on the other path, since the ice was almost gone, but the walking traffic was so heavy that we ended up on the grass between the paths, occasionally dodging the low spots where the melt water was accumulating.
We decided to extend the run today, and once we got to the 14th Street bridge, we kept going. We were synced with the crossing lights at 10th, and just past that, we crossed the river under the C-Train bridge.
At 14th, it was up on top, and south toward her place, and we slowed to a satisfied walk for the last block. A great run, with great energy, and a stunningly glorious day.
Distance: 12.78 km. Time: 1:14:29.
Average speed: 10.3 kph (5:50 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 10C.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Early Morning
In the dark, and after we go to daylight savings, it'll be even darker at that time of day. But it was beautiful morning, and feeling like it was well into spring, so this was the first run in shorts of the year.
I wasn't feeling quite up to the 10 km run after a session of sedation dentistry yesterday, so it was up and across the 14th Street bridge. There were several pairs of runners out, only a couple of cyclists.
But otherwise quiet. Even the neighbourhood bunnies were sleeping in. I was home in time to see the dump trucks pull up to the empty lot across the street, where they've already started digging for whatever million dollar mansion is going in.
Distance: 7.15 km. Time: 44:08.
Average speed: 9.7 kph (6:09 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and -6C.
I wasn't feeling quite up to the 10 km run after a session of sedation dentistry yesterday, so it was up and across the 14th Street bridge. There were several pairs of runners out, only a couple of cyclists.
But otherwise quiet. Even the neighbourhood bunnies were sleeping in. I was home in time to see the dump trucks pull up to the empty lot across the street, where they've already started digging for whatever million dollar mansion is going in.
Distance: 7.15 km. Time: 44:08.
Average speed: 9.7 kph (6:09 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and -6C.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
"Wait Five Minutes..."
Out the door and into the car to drive over to Heather's, wondering if I have enough layers on, knowing that I do even though I feel thoroughly chilled. I worked at stretching my calves while I waited for her to come down, hoping the wind would let up, and maybe the snow wouldn't get any heavier than the few flakes being whipped around.
We walked down to 14th Street and toward the river, starting to run at about 10th Avenue. There was a large crowd of people walking on the path near the bus terminal. It didn't seem like an organized event, but they appeared to be together.
Near The PumpHouse, I looked up to see the edge of the cloud directly overhead, knife sharp as it crossed the sky from southeast to northwest. By the time we had crossed the river at Crowchild, the cloud had almost disappeared to the southwest. All blue sky and sunshine.
Runners out by the truckload. Lots of large groups and smaller groups, and singles. As before, time slid by swiftly with Heather and I yakking about this and that. We peeled off the windbreakers before we got to the turn around, and by the time I was halfway back toward Crowchild, I was wishing I hadn't worn the sweatshirt.
In no time at all we were back in front of her place, stretching out calves and quads, and planning for next week.
Distance: 10.89 km. Time: 1:04:50.
Average speed: 10.1 kph (5:57 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and -6C.
We walked down to 14th Street and toward the river, starting to run at about 10th Avenue. There was a large crowd of people walking on the path near the bus terminal. It didn't seem like an organized event, but they appeared to be together.
Near The PumpHouse, I looked up to see the edge of the cloud directly overhead, knife sharp as it crossed the sky from southeast to northwest. By the time we had crossed the river at Crowchild, the cloud had almost disappeared to the southwest. All blue sky and sunshine.
Runners out by the truckload. Lots of large groups and smaller groups, and singles. As before, time slid by swiftly with Heather and I yakking about this and that. We peeled off the windbreakers before we got to the turn around, and by the time I was halfway back toward Crowchild, I was wishing I hadn't worn the sweatshirt.
In no time at all we were back in front of her place, stretching out calves and quads, and planning for next week.
Distance: 10.89 km. Time: 1:04:50.
Average speed: 10.1 kph (5:57 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and -6C.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Another Snowfall
Just a bit of snow this morning, nothing to get excited about. It didn't even slow down my commute, as I got to work disappointingly on time, without really trying.
I expected there to be some of it around to make running interesting, but the paths are pretty much all clear. There is some wet places that will turn to ice soon, but they didn't affect my running. It was a beautiful sunny evening when I started, and not at all dark when I got home. And a good run.
Distance: 10.21 km. Time: 56:57.
Average speed: 10.8 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 0C.
I expected there to be some of it around to make running interesting, but the paths are pretty much all clear. There is some wet places that will turn to ice soon, but they didn't affect my running. It was a beautiful sunny evening when I started, and not at all dark when I got home. And a good run.
Distance: 10.21 km. Time: 56:57.
Average speed: 10.8 kph (5:35 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 0C.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Balloon Post?
For some reason the wind chimes down by The Pumphouse were easy to spot tonight. It's staying bright enough by the time I get down there. I've always wondered if there were more than those five, and if I just wasn't sharp-eyed enough to pick them out.
But near them, three really big balloons were tethered tightly to the chicken wire around a small stand of cottonwoods - the kind that's supposed to keep the beavers from cleaning the place out. No idea why they were there. They were off the path and kind of around behind, so someone had to push their way through the bush to get there.
It was a great run. Lots of others out, and I think people are starting to thaw a little, too. I didn't get much eye contact, but a few responded to my good-evenings
Distance: 10.03 km. Time: 56:34.
Average speed: 10.6 kph (5:38 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 5C.
But near them, three really big balloons were tethered tightly to the chicken wire around a small stand of cottonwoods - the kind that's supposed to keep the beavers from cleaning the place out. No idea why they were there. They were off the path and kind of around behind, so someone had to push their way through the bush to get there.
It was a great run. Lots of others out, and I think people are starting to thaw a little, too. I didn't get much eye contact, but a few responded to my good-evenings
Distance: 10.03 km. Time: 56:34.
Average speed: 10.6 kph (5:38 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 5C.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Running Buddy
I'd met Heather a couple of weeks ago. It turned out that we both run, so we talked about getting together for a Sunday morning run. So today turned out to be perfect for that.
We decided to run to Edworthy and back. It turns out that it's about an 11 km run from her place. Marvelous weather and great company, and we got so involved in the conversation that the run was over in no time.
What's becoming typical for Sunday morning is lots of people out. It was a beautiful morning, and there was lots of great energy from all the runners
Distance: 11.19 km. Time: 1:05:37. Average speed: 10.2 kph (5:53 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -3C.
We decided to run to Edworthy and back. It turns out that it's about an 11 km run from her place. Marvelous weather and great company, and we got so involved in the conversation that the run was over in no time.
What's becoming typical for Sunday morning is lots of people out. It was a beautiful morning, and there was lots of great energy from all the runners
Distance: 11.19 km. Time: 1:05:37. Average speed: 10.2 kph (5:53 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -3C.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Anybody Seen My Energy?
Jeez, what happened?? I felt like I was dragging my couch along. No energy, and I felt just heavy. I hope there were extra calories sacrificed to get me out there.
I'm running in sunshine, though. Real sunlight for the first half of the run. Ahhhh.... And then I get the rapidly fading twilight. But spring is coming. We've had spectacular weather. In fact, I was over dressed. I should have been in running shorts and a long sleeve t-shirt.
There was a big oops on Bow Trail. A Beemer in the 14th Street off-ramp kinda misaligned with the lane under 14th, and tried to climb the concrete abutment that holds the overpass up. Nasty lookin' crunch, but apparently no one was hurt. Of course it was snarling traffic a little.
Distance: 9.84 km. Time: 55:34. Average speed: 10.6 kph (5:40 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 4C.
I'm running in sunshine, though. Real sunlight for the first half of the run. Ahhhh.... And then I get the rapidly fading twilight. But spring is coming. We've had spectacular weather. In fact, I was over dressed. I should have been in running shorts and a long sleeve t-shirt.
There was a big oops on Bow Trail. A Beemer in the 14th Street off-ramp kinda misaligned with the lane under 14th, and tried to climb the concrete abutment that holds the overpass up. Nasty lookin' crunch, but apparently no one was hurt. Of course it was snarling traffic a little.
Distance: 9.84 km. Time: 55:34. Average speed: 10.6 kph (5:40 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and 4C.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Pushing It
I'm really trying hard to get out regularly, and get on some kind of routine. So tonight I was out and on the paths as soon as I got home from work.
Nothing much special about tonight. It is definitely staying light longer now. I finish an hour run and it's sort of early twilight.
One observation is that eye contact with other runners is pretty rare. If they do make eye contact, they look away immediately. It's so different from the Sunday morning runs when everyone says good morning.
Distance: 10.04 km. Time: 57:28. Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:43 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly clear and 1C.
Nothing much special about tonight. It is definitely staying light longer now. I finish an hour run and it's sort of early twilight.
One observation is that eye contact with other runners is pretty rare. If they do make eye contact, they look away immediately. It's so different from the Sunday morning runs when everyone says good morning.
Distance: 10.04 km. Time: 57:28. Average speed: 10.5 kph (5:43 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly clear and 1C.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Hot Sunday Morning Run
I wonder what that was all about? I was feeling kind of old and stiff when I got out there, hoping that I'd be able to loosen up a little after a couple of kilometres. It didn't seem like I was running any faster or slower than usual though. But in reality I was cookin'.
The sky was crystal clear for once, with the mountains on the western horizon bright and sharp. The band on Banded Peak was sharp, and the two humps of Moose Mountain looked clean and brilliant. I wish I could identify some of the other peaks.
A slight western breeze made the start a little hard on the face, but after warming up, I stopped noticing it. I think everyone was up for a sunny calm day for running because there were an awful lot of runners out. It was great.
Outbound toward Edworthy was uneventful. I felt like I was covering a lot of ground during the nine minute running intervals. At thirty minutes, I was well past Crowchild.
A quick bathroom stop at Edworthy, a loop around Angel's Cafe, and I was heading back toward downtown. I met Peter-Mark after ten minutes, and we stopped to catch up. We gotta get together one of these Sundays, cuz we both run pretty much the same route.
I didn't try the trail below Spruce Cliff. From across the river, I could see the ice was piled up to almost the top of the fence at one point, and I wasn't keen on the slow, shaky shuffle it would have required to cross it. But I crossed at Crowchild, just to get some distance from the south side of the river.
My timing was interesting, too. I managed to hit a walk break just as I got to the steepest part of The Path Under The Stairs, so I didn't have to try to keep running it. And by the time the walk break was over, I was past it. That left me for a nice strong finish.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.03 km. Time: 1:26:45. Average speed: 11.1 kph. (5:24 min/km)
Rest distance: 977.1 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.00 km. Total time: 1:35:45.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly sunny and -9C at the start, warming up to -2 by the end.
The sky was crystal clear for once, with the mountains on the western horizon bright and sharp. The band on Banded Peak was sharp, and the two humps of Moose Mountain looked clean and brilliant. I wish I could identify some of the other peaks.
A slight western breeze made the start a little hard on the face, but after warming up, I stopped noticing it. I think everyone was up for a sunny calm day for running because there were an awful lot of runners out. It was great.
Outbound toward Edworthy was uneventful. I felt like I was covering a lot of ground during the nine minute running intervals. At thirty minutes, I was well past Crowchild.
A quick bathroom stop at Edworthy, a loop around Angel's Cafe, and I was heading back toward downtown. I met Peter-Mark after ten minutes, and we stopped to catch up. We gotta get together one of these Sundays, cuz we both run pretty much the same route.
I didn't try the trail below Spruce Cliff. From across the river, I could see the ice was piled up to almost the top of the fence at one point, and I wasn't keen on the slow, shaky shuffle it would have required to cross it. But I crossed at Crowchild, just to get some distance from the south side of the river.
My timing was interesting, too. I managed to hit a walk break just as I got to the steepest part of The Path Under The Stairs, so I didn't have to try to keep running it. And by the time the walk break was over, I was past it. That left me for a nice strong finish.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.03 km. Time: 1:26:45. Average speed: 11.1 kph. (5:24 min/km)
Rest distance: 977.1 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.00 km. Total time: 1:35:45.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly sunny and -9C at the start, warming up to -2 by the end.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Movie Night
My Valentine's Day run. There was a movie crew setting up on Prince's Island. I wonder if it's going to be some kind of Christmas thing. The railing of the Jaipur Bridge was covered with garlands and Christmas lights.
After that, it was not much happening. Except a person I passed on the Prince's Island foot bridge was drafting me all the way to about the Greyhound terminal, when she finally passed me. Then on the Crowchild bridge she stopped to stretch, while I kept going, and she followed me all the way until about a half a kilometre past 10th Street. It made for a weird feeling.
Otherwise, nothing different. I start out in the light now, although it's still after sunset. And it's not quite so dark when I finish. Warm weather makes it easier to get out.
Distance: 10.20 km. Time: 55:38. Average speed: 11.0 kph (5:27 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly clear and 1C.
After that, it was not much happening. Except a person I passed on the Prince's Island foot bridge was drafting me all the way to about the Greyhound terminal, when she finally passed me. Then on the Crowchild bridge she stopped to stretch, while I kept going, and she followed me all the way until about a half a kilometre past 10th Street. It made for a weird feeling.
Otherwise, nothing different. I start out in the light now, although it's still after sunset. And it's not quite so dark when I finish. Warm weather makes it easier to get out.
Distance: 10.20 km. Time: 55:38. Average speed: 11.0 kph (5:27 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Mainly clear and 1C.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Crazy Weather
Still struggling with motivation, but I'm getting out there. I wasn't going to go, cuz it seemed so cold, but I managed to convince myself that it was going to warm up and be lovely out.
Of course, once I got out and moving I was fine. It never did reach the high promised by the forecast, but it was nice enough, cuz we didn't get the wind that was promised either.
I was off and down The Path just before lunch time. It was cold enough that I questioned the wisdom of not wearing a scarf, but after fifteen minutes or so, I was warm enough that my face wasn't freezing. It was quite comfortable, actually.
I did the full long distance loop today, going all the way to the Edworthy foot bridge and crossing over to return by the path below Spruce Cliff and Wildwood. Of course the gate is closed, and the warning signs are up, but the path around it is well used.
The biggest issue is that the natural springs that constantly run on that side have deposited huge mounds of ice on the path. One is so big that the six foot chain link fence that separates the path from the railroad tracks actually only came up to my knee. It was also still being built up by the flowing water, so there were stretches of wet ice, where I held onto the fence for balance, and of course on this one, I had to bend down to reach it. Freaky.
Between that and the unplowed paths through Lawrey Gardens, it was slow going through there. Not too many other people; in fact I only met two.
I also caught the tail end of the Hypothermic Half marathon. Pylons marking the trail at intersections, and kilometre markers. It was about 12:30 when I got back to the 14th Street bridge, passing an abandoned water station. Decent day for running, but I bet it was cold for the volunteers at the water stations and along the path.
After that, it was straight on to the top of the bluff, and along the top. I've been running to 4th Street lately, just to take in the view for awhile before heading north toward home. No sign of the mountains this morning, but it was becoming a lovely day.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.49 km. Time: 1:34:48. Average speed: 10.4 kph. (5:45 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.01 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.50 km. Total time: 1:44:48.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -20 at the start, warming up to -17 by the end.
Of course, once I got out and moving I was fine. It never did reach the high promised by the forecast, but it was nice enough, cuz we didn't get the wind that was promised either.
I was off and down The Path just before lunch time. It was cold enough that I questioned the wisdom of not wearing a scarf, but after fifteen minutes or so, I was warm enough that my face wasn't freezing. It was quite comfortable, actually.
I did the full long distance loop today, going all the way to the Edworthy foot bridge and crossing over to return by the path below Spruce Cliff and Wildwood. Of course the gate is closed, and the warning signs are up, but the path around it is well used.
The biggest issue is that the natural springs that constantly run on that side have deposited huge mounds of ice on the path. One is so big that the six foot chain link fence that separates the path from the railroad tracks actually only came up to my knee. It was also still being built up by the flowing water, so there were stretches of wet ice, where I held onto the fence for balance, and of course on this one, I had to bend down to reach it. Freaky.
Between that and the unplowed paths through Lawrey Gardens, it was slow going through there. Not too many other people; in fact I only met two.
I also caught the tail end of the Hypothermic Half marathon. Pylons marking the trail at intersections, and kilometre markers. It was about 12:30 when I got back to the 14th Street bridge, passing an abandoned water station. Decent day for running, but I bet it was cold for the volunteers at the water stations and along the path.
After that, it was straight on to the top of the bluff, and along the top. I've been running to 4th Street lately, just to take in the view for awhile before heading north toward home. No sign of the mountains this morning, but it was becoming a lovely day.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.49 km. Time: 1:34:48. Average speed: 10.4 kph. (5:45 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.01 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.50 km. Total time: 1:44:48.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -20 at the start, warming up to -17 by the end.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Finally!
I got out again after almost two weeks of not being able to. Boy, but I missed it!
It was great to get out and down along the river. It still gets dark way, way too early, but it's not quite so early as it was the last time I was out. I went for the Crowchild loop, looking to burn off some excess calories that have been sneaking up on me since Christmas.
Big crowd at the bottom of The Stairs. I notice they're getting a little worn with all the traffic from the fitness groups that run up and down them. It's a popular and busy place for that.
After I crossed the river, the promenade was pretty quiet for a nice winter day. A few runners out, but not many. Not even that many cyclists.
Overall, it was an uneventful run and I was done soon enough. It was good to get it in before the cold comes back, but then that shouldn't slow a dedicated runner down, should it?
Distance: 10.21 km. Time: 59:30. Average speed: 10.3 kph (5:50 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and -5C.
It was great to get out and down along the river. It still gets dark way, way too early, but it's not quite so early as it was the last time I was out. I went for the Crowchild loop, looking to burn off some excess calories that have been sneaking up on me since Christmas.
Big crowd at the bottom of The Stairs. I notice they're getting a little worn with all the traffic from the fitness groups that run up and down them. It's a popular and busy place for that.
After I crossed the river, the promenade was pretty quiet for a nice winter day. A few runners out, but not many. Not even that many cyclists.
Overall, it was an uneventful run and I was done soon enough. It was good to get it in before the cold comes back, but then that shouldn't slow a dedicated runner down, should it?
Distance: 10.21 km. Time: 59:30. Average speed: 10.3 kph (5:50 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Sunny and -5C.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Beating the Blizzard
I thought about getting out yesterday, since it was so warm out. Really a gorgeous day. But I'm trying to get back into the Sunday morning runs, and I was determined to do a distance run this morning.
So what's a little blowing snow and dangerous windchills? Actually, it wasn't all that bad. Running heats you up enough that even with the wind, you can stay pretty warm. I just wore my usual winter running clothes, and added the scratchiest scarf I could find, the kind where the loose nylon fibres stick to your lip balm. Bleah.
I got back into the run-walk rhythm, and headed toward Edworthy. The wind wasn't too bad until I got to 37th Street. From there the path turns a little northward, and the condos back away from it, so it's pretty open. Only the occasional naked cottonwood breaks the openness.
At the Edworthy bridge, I thought about crossing and running the south side, but instead I just trotted around Angel's snack bar and headed back toward downtown. By that time, the wind had swung more northward, and had strengthened, too. Mostly I was good, but that side of my nose was uncomfortably cold.
Back at Crowchild, I crossed to the south, just to say I did. Not much cover over there, either, and the wind was biting. I ran the promenade, crossed at Prince's Island, and up The Path Under The Stairs.
It was pretty uneventful, really. The biggest thing was that my knees were perfect. Even after all that, everything felt great.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.02 km. Time: 1:33:03. Average speed: 10.3 kph. (5:50 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.01 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.03 km. Total time: 1:43:03.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light snow, winds north at 40 kph gusting to 60 kph and -15C at the start; winds north at 50 kph and -18C at the end.
So what's a little blowing snow and dangerous windchills? Actually, it wasn't all that bad. Running heats you up enough that even with the wind, you can stay pretty warm. I just wore my usual winter running clothes, and added the scratchiest scarf I could find, the kind where the loose nylon fibres stick to your lip balm. Bleah.
I got back into the run-walk rhythm, and headed toward Edworthy. The wind wasn't too bad until I got to 37th Street. From there the path turns a little northward, and the condos back away from it, so it's pretty open. Only the occasional naked cottonwood breaks the openness.
At the Edworthy bridge, I thought about crossing and running the south side, but instead I just trotted around Angel's snack bar and headed back toward downtown. By that time, the wind had swung more northward, and had strengthened, too. Mostly I was good, but that side of my nose was uncomfortably cold.
Back at Crowchild, I crossed to the south, just to say I did. Not much cover over there, either, and the wind was biting. I ran the promenade, crossed at Prince's Island, and up The Path Under The Stairs.
It was pretty uneventful, really. The biggest thing was that my knees were perfect. Even after all that, everything felt great.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.02 km. Time: 1:33:03. Average speed: 10.3 kph. (5:50 min/km)
Rest distance: 1.01 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.03 km. Total time: 1:43:03.
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light snow, winds north at 40 kph gusting to 60 kph and -15C at the start; winds north at 50 kph and -18C at the end.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
A Long Day
Which demands a long run. So, I went for the 10 km loop. Nothing too special about it. It was dark, but not really cold. Lots of traffic, since all the Running Room groups were out. Felt good though.
Distance: 10.09 km. Time: 56:54. Average speed: 10.6 kph (5:40 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Clear and -2C.
Distance: 10.09 km. Time: 56:54. Average speed: 10.6 kph (5:40 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Clear and -2C.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Another Dark Run
It feels like it'll never be light again. It was a good run, and fun as far as it goes, but there's an unfriendliness in the community of runners lately. Maybe it's the cold, or maybe it's the darkness, but no one makes eye contact. If they do, they look away before you can wave or say hi.
Maybe it's just the mid-January grumpiness that settles over this country every year. Whatever it is, it's a little disheartening. And all the more reason for me to get back to working in the downtown, so I can run in the noon-time light.
Two groups were busy tonight on the bluff. One group was running up The Path Under The Stairs sideways, the other was running up The Stairs sideways. Crabby in action as well as disposition?
One nice moment - just as I was passing the CBC building, I noticed the river of red lights rising out of the downtown and up Bow Trail. Kinda pretty.
Distance: 10.20 km. Time: 57:13. Average speed: 10.7 kph (5:37 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -3C.
Maybe it's just the mid-January grumpiness that settles over this country every year. Whatever it is, it's a little disheartening. And all the more reason for me to get back to working in the downtown, so I can run in the noon-time light.
Two groups were busy tonight on the bluff. One group was running up The Path Under The Stairs sideways, the other was running up The Stairs sideways. Crabby in action as well as disposition?
One nice moment - just as I was passing the CBC building, I noticed the river of red lights rising out of the downtown and up Bow Trail. Kinda pretty.
Distance: 10.20 km. Time: 57:13. Average speed: 10.7 kph (5:37 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -3C.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Snowy Run
Wonderful morning, with heavy snow coming down and covering everything. I love running in that stuff, it's so quiet and fun. It also slows you down because it's loose and rolls from under foot. And makes everything quite beautiful.
I went for the 10 km to Crowchild and back. I didn't get a lock on the GPS when I started, so my distance is off, especially since I went a little farther on the return, following the bluff a couple of blocks past where I usually turn north, and having to back track a little to get home.
Lovely run, and a magical morning.
Distance: 9.43 km. Time: 1:04:03. Average speed: 8.8 kph (6:49 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light snow and -9C.
I went for the 10 km to Crowchild and back. I didn't get a lock on the GPS when I started, so my distance is off, especially since I went a little farther on the return, following the bluff a couple of blocks past where I usually turn north, and having to back track a little to get home.
Lovely run, and a magical morning.
Distance: 9.43 km. Time: 1:04:03. Average speed: 8.8 kph (6:49 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Light snow and -9C.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Let There Be Light
Just a little, so I don't have to run in the dark.
I've missed a run here. I was out last Saturday afternoon, and never got around to writing up the run. Details below.
And tonight was really needed. I've been tied up with stuff lately, and tonight was the first night in awhile that I could get out there. I likely won't get out again until the weekend at least.
Last Saturday:
Distance: 7.00 km. Time: 36:55. Average speed: 11.4 kph (5:16 min/km).
Tonight:
Distance: 7.41 km. Time: 41:43. Average speed: 10.7 kph (5:37 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 0C.
I've missed a run here. I was out last Saturday afternoon, and never got around to writing up the run. Details below.
And tonight was really needed. I've been tied up with stuff lately, and tonight was the first night in awhile that I could get out there. I likely won't get out again until the weekend at least.
Last Saturday:
Distance: 7.00 km. Time: 36:55. Average speed: 11.4 kph (5:16 min/km).
Tonight:
Distance: 7.41 km. Time: 41:43. Average speed: 10.7 kph (5:37 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 0C.
Monday, January 07, 2008
Just Gotta Get To It
Man, this lethargy is getting a little frustrating. I've got no energy or real urge to get out and run. I almost have to force myself to get my running gear on and get out the door. And on top of all that, I seem to be experiencing a calorie surplus, judging by the snugness of certain items from my closet.
Already dark by the time I got out. In a couple of weeks, there should be some relief from that, but right now it's a downer. It always seems to me that sunset begins to come later much earlier than sunrise gets earlier. (I had to read that twice...)
Perhaps it from all the frustrations I've been getting hammered by lately, but I ran pretty hard. I'm looking at my time and it's pretty good.
Just the 14th Street loop, so nothing special, especially in the dark. But one novel event - a homeless person suggested that it was a long way to Toronto.
Distance: 7.22 km. Time: 36:33. Average speed: 11.8 kph (5:06 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Clear and -3C.
Already dark by the time I got out. In a couple of weeks, there should be some relief from that, but right now it's a downer. It always seems to me that sunset begins to come later much earlier than sunrise gets earlier. (I had to read that twice...)
Perhaps it from all the frustrations I've been getting hammered by lately, but I ran pretty hard. I'm looking at my time and it's pretty good.
Just the 14th Street loop, so nothing special, especially in the dark. But one novel event - a homeless person suggested that it was a long way to Toronto.
Distance: 7.22 km. Time: 36:33. Average speed: 11.8 kph (5:06 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Clear and -3C.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Pretty Springy Out for January
Gorgeous day, and I've been out in it, off and on. By mid afternoon, I was ready for a run. I wore the lined tights, but just a couple of t-shirts. Even the wind wasn't really cold.
I headed down to the river and ran west, the usual way. The ice on the river is pretty spectacular looking, all broken and heaved up and jumbled. Not far past Prince's Island to the west, there is hardly any open water. I decided for a 10 km run.
The westward leg was nothing exciting, just the usual plodding along the path to Crowchild. But with the river so high, even under that ice, the way back on the south side was more interesting.
There is a place near the Pumphouse Theatre where the path dips low, and was under water back a couple of years ago when we had all the flooding. Well, the water has risen above that level again, and while it has backed off, there's a nice thick layer of ice on the path at that point.
Even under the 14th Street and 10th Street bridges on the south side, the water is up close to the edge of the path. And everywhere the ice is photogenically beautiful. Lots of photographers out working with the setting sun. I imagine there'll be a few gorgeous images from that.
Distance: 9.88 km. Time: 57:03. Average speed: 10.4 kph (5:46 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 4C.
I headed down to the river and ran west, the usual way. The ice on the river is pretty spectacular looking, all broken and heaved up and jumbled. Not far past Prince's Island to the west, there is hardly any open water. I decided for a 10 km run.
The westward leg was nothing exciting, just the usual plodding along the path to Crowchild. But with the river so high, even under that ice, the way back on the south side was more interesting.
There is a place near the Pumphouse Theatre where the path dips low, and was under water back a couple of years ago when we had all the flooding. Well, the water has risen above that level again, and while it has backed off, there's a nice thick layer of ice on the path at that point.
Even under the 14th Street and 10th Street bridges on the south side, the water is up close to the edge of the path. And everywhere the ice is photogenically beautiful. Lots of photographers out working with the setting sun. I imagine there'll be a few gorgeous images from that.
Distance: 9.88 km. Time: 57:03. Average speed: 10.4 kph (5:46 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and 4C.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Happy New Year
Finally got out for a run. It's been much too long, and this calorie-laden season hasn't been kind. Clothes seem to be shrinking.
I tried something different tonight. I headed east as I got to the river, and then at the Bridgeland train station, I crossed Memorial and headed north up 9th Street, through Bridgeland. Once I got to 5th Avenue, I turned west, until I had to jog back to 4th Avenue.
At 6th Street I started north up the hill to a long stairway up the bluff. It comes out at a cul-de-sac beside a copper roofed church, Catholic, I think. Then up to 8th Avenue, which took me past my first home in this part of town, to Centre Street, and then Cresent Heights Park, where I turned north toward my usual end point.
This gave me a slightly longer run that the 14th Street loop, and I got to get into some different parts of town, too.
Distance: 7.84 km. Time: 45:22. Average speed: 10.4 kph (5:46 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -10C.
I tried something different tonight. I headed east as I got to the river, and then at the Bridgeland train station, I crossed Memorial and headed north up 9th Street, through Bridgeland. Once I got to 5th Avenue, I turned west, until I had to jog back to 4th Avenue.
At 6th Street I started north up the hill to a long stairway up the bluff. It comes out at a cul-de-sac beside a copper roofed church, Catholic, I think. Then up to 8th Avenue, which took me past my first home in this part of town, to Centre Street, and then Cresent Heights Park, where I turned north toward my usual end point.
This gave me a slightly longer run that the 14th Street loop, and I got to get into some different parts of town, too.
Distance: 7.84 km. Time: 45:22. Average speed: 10.4 kph (5:46 min/km).
Shoes: New Balance 1061.
Weather: Cloudy and -10C.
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