Jeez, what the heck? I was out - finally - for a run after the cold snap. Just too wussy to get out in that -45C wind chill, I guess. But man this was a hard run.
It was all packed snow, and not so bad for slipperiness. The Path Under The Stairs had a couple of spots at it's steepest that were a little dicey on the way down but for the most part it was pretty good running conditions.
But oh, so slow! No speed, and major pain in the shins. I was locking up, almost. I thought about stopping but figured I might just lock up permanently if I did. And heavy and slow. That's what it felt like. Every step was jarring and I just had no flow with it at all.
Is this what happened when you don't run for two weeks? It was tough!
Today's (actually yesterday's) run:
Distance: 5.56 Time: 37:10
Average speed: 6:41 min/km. (8.98 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Sad and blue L n K.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and -8C
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Late Afternoon Run
When I work at home on a running day, I usually take a break at noon, and run then, but today I felt I was on a roll and kept working right through noon and most of the afternoon.
A half hour before sunset, I was done, though. I changed and stepped out the door. Jeez, it was cold! I mean not crazy cold, but it has cooled off considerably in the last couple of days. The snow we got yesterday wasn't too bad though, and I found that what was icy on Sunday was now packed snow and quite good to run on.
I headed down The Path, taking it easy though. There were still icy spots and I did a bit of a dance at one point when I found one with the heel of my shoe. A little arm waving for balance and I was good.
Across Prince's Island and down the promenade. It was pretty packed and icy, but not bad and I made good time.
I still felt the shin splints but had none of the fatigue that I had on Sunday. It felt much like I was back to my old self, if I ignored the sore legs and heavy wooden feeling in them. Still, my time was off.
It didn't take long to warm up either. Running is funny that way for me, hard to get out and get going. Cold and stiff at the start, but I know if I stick it out, I'm going to feel pretty darn good about getting through one more run.
Today's run:
Distance: 7.09 Time: 42:46
Average speed: 6:01 min/km. (9.95 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Sad and blue L n K.
Weather: Clear and -5C
A half hour before sunset, I was done, though. I changed and stepped out the door. Jeez, it was cold! I mean not crazy cold, but it has cooled off considerably in the last couple of days. The snow we got yesterday wasn't too bad though, and I found that what was icy on Sunday was now packed snow and quite good to run on.
I headed down The Path, taking it easy though. There were still icy spots and I did a bit of a dance at one point when I found one with the heel of my shoe. A little arm waving for balance and I was good.
Across Prince's Island and down the promenade. It was pretty packed and icy, but not bad and I made good time.
I still felt the shin splints but had none of the fatigue that I had on Sunday. It felt much like I was back to my old self, if I ignored the sore legs and heavy wooden feeling in them. Still, my time was off.
It didn't take long to warm up either. Running is funny that way for me, hard to get out and get going. Cold and stiff at the start, but I know if I stick it out, I'm going to feel pretty darn good about getting through one more run.
Today's run:
Distance: 7.09 Time: 42:46
Average speed: 6:01 min/km. (9.95 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Sad and blue L n K.
Weather: Clear and -5C
Monday, November 30, 2009
After the Blizzard
Such as it was. It snowed Friday night after it rained and then it froze and driving was apparently not fun. There was some melting the next day, but it was mostly overcast, and not all that warm. So by Sunday morning there was still lots of ice and packed snow.
I started down the street toward the bluff and it was treacherous, with a good coat of ice and the temperatures warming up to well above freezing. I stayed on the sidewalk rather than run on Crescent Road, much better but still slippery.
Nony's Awful Little Hill wasn't bad, with just one short stretch where I opted to pick my way through the weeds on the side, and the Centre Street bridge was also a littel icy. But once I got off the bridge and on to the promenade, there was no ice at all.
My big problem was just keeping going. I felt shin splints, not debilitating, but hurting. And I had no energy. My pace was way off. I usually try to at least stay to less than 6 minutes per kilometre, but that was a far off goal.
I kept plodding. I felt I had the stamina, just not the strength for my usual speed. The shin splints stayed with me, against my hope that they would disappear if I just kept moving.
By the time I crossed under Crowchild, the legs felt better, and I was feeling a little bit looser. But still my speed was staying down. I stayed on the bike path on the way to Edworthy, as it had been cleared some and there was lots of packed snow where it wasn't bare pavement. By the time I passed the Extreme Bean the shin splints were history.
I think it's partly the shoes. They have just under 700 km on them and they feel heavy and have no bounce, so I think the cushioning in the insole is pretty much gone. On top of that was a night of celebration, though it was low key, and I certainly wasn't hung over, just very tired.
I rounded Angel's Cafe at least five minutes slower than usual. I switched to the pedestrian path, which isn't cleared in the winter. The snow was packed and there was a little more of it, but just fine for running. Further evidence that my shoes had reached their end was how jarring each step felt. I wasn't hurting by this time, but just felt the fatigue.
The rest of the run went by. I just wanted to get to the end. The Path Under The Stairs wasn't any more onerous than usual, but I was already done before I got there. Running along the top of the bluff, I just wanted to get to the end, and never thought to check out the mountains.
About 15 minutes longer than I usually run this one. I was very glad to be done this run.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.51 Time: 1:45:47
Average speed: 6:28 min/km. (9.36 kph)
Rest distance: 0.89 km. Rest time: 11:30.
Total distance: 17.34 km. Total time: 1:57:17.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: All the Hits on L n K.
I started down the street toward the bluff and it was treacherous, with a good coat of ice and the temperatures warming up to well above freezing. I stayed on the sidewalk rather than run on Crescent Road, much better but still slippery.
Nony's Awful Little Hill wasn't bad, with just one short stretch where I opted to pick my way through the weeds on the side, and the Centre Street bridge was also a littel icy. But once I got off the bridge and on to the promenade, there was no ice at all.
My big problem was just keeping going. I felt shin splints, not debilitating, but hurting. And I had no energy. My pace was way off. I usually try to at least stay to less than 6 minutes per kilometre, but that was a far off goal.
I kept plodding. I felt I had the stamina, just not the strength for my usual speed. The shin splints stayed with me, against my hope that they would disappear if I just kept moving.
By the time I crossed under Crowchild, the legs felt better, and I was feeling a little bit looser. But still my speed was staying down. I stayed on the bike path on the way to Edworthy, as it had been cleared some and there was lots of packed snow where it wasn't bare pavement. By the time I passed the Extreme Bean the shin splints were history.
I think it's partly the shoes. They have just under 700 km on them and they feel heavy and have no bounce, so I think the cushioning in the insole is pretty much gone. On top of that was a night of celebration, though it was low key, and I certainly wasn't hung over, just very tired.
I rounded Angel's Cafe at least five minutes slower than usual. I switched to the pedestrian path, which isn't cleared in the winter. The snow was packed and there was a little more of it, but just fine for running. Further evidence that my shoes had reached their end was how jarring each step felt. I wasn't hurting by this time, but just felt the fatigue.
The rest of the run went by. I just wanted to get to the end. The Path Under The Stairs wasn't any more onerous than usual, but I was already done before I got there. Running along the top of the bluff, I just wanted to get to the end, and never thought to check out the mountains.
About 15 minutes longer than I usually run this one. I was very glad to be done this run.
Today's run:
Distance: 16.51 Time: 1:45:47
Average speed: 6:28 min/km. (9.36 kph)
Rest distance: 0.89 km. Rest time: 11:30.
Total distance: 17.34 km. Total time: 1:57:17.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: All the Hits on L n K.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
It's Still Being Nice Out!
Can't beat this weather. It's almost the end of November, and we really haven't had any major snowfalls, except for a couple that didn't stick around. Also no real cold snaps, except for a couple of days in October when I dropped to -15 or so. Leave's ya with a feeling that something is just around the corner, waiting to pounce.
I took a break from work, actually getting out a little earlier. Down to the path along the river and it was pretty quiet, as the lunch time crowd wouldn't be coming out until I was almost done.
The chill kinda followed me until I got part way down Cresent Road to the top of The Path. By the time I was at the bottom, I wasn't feeling cold at all. The light breeze that had been biting a little was unnoticeable.
The run was a run. Nothing notable about it, and I plodded down to 14th Street and the Metawa bridge. On the other side, a few lunch time runners were beginning to show, though it was still pretty quiet. I think the fair weather runners were staying in, even though it was a calm, clear, sunny day.
By the time I was on the south side of the river, my shins were burning. I did do some stretching before starting out, but those hurt. It didn't slow me down, just hurt. By the time I got to crossing Prince's Island, I was fine.
I was up The Path not fast, but steady, and not breathless. At the top, as I turned the hairpin to head west, I noticed the western horizon. Wow, clear all the way, with just a few grey blobs behind them. They were mostly dark because of the angle of the sun, but had a few gleaming white parts that were still in the sun.
I took that in until I got to the break in the guard rail where I head north and homeward.
Today's run:
Distance: 7.09 Time: 41:57
Average speed: 5:55 min/km. (10.14 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Easy L n K.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 4C
I took a break from work, actually getting out a little earlier. Down to the path along the river and it was pretty quiet, as the lunch time crowd wouldn't be coming out until I was almost done.
The chill kinda followed me until I got part way down Cresent Road to the top of The Path. By the time I was at the bottom, I wasn't feeling cold at all. The light breeze that had been biting a little was unnoticeable.
The run was a run. Nothing notable about it, and I plodded down to 14th Street and the Metawa bridge. On the other side, a few lunch time runners were beginning to show, though it was still pretty quiet. I think the fair weather runners were staying in, even though it was a calm, clear, sunny day.
By the time I was on the south side of the river, my shins were burning. I did do some stretching before starting out, but those hurt. It didn't slow me down, just hurt. By the time I got to crossing Prince's Island, I was fine.
I was up The Path not fast, but steady, and not breathless. At the top, as I turned the hairpin to head west, I noticed the western horizon. Wow, clear all the way, with just a few grey blobs behind them. They were mostly dark because of the angle of the sun, but had a few gleaming white parts that were still in the sun.
I took that in until I got to the break in the guard rail where I head north and homeward.
Today's run:
Distance: 7.09 Time: 41:57
Average speed: 5:55 min/km. (10.14 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Easy L n K.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 4C
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Beat the Sunset
Rushed home so I could get a run in before dinner, and perhaps even before sunset. Man but it gets dark so early.
The weather is still holding out this fall, and I probably could have run in shorts, but opted for the running tights. Seems like a lot of people walk to work downtown, too. The bridge was busy, though not crowded.
On the promenade, lots of leaves blowing around and the ducks in that little bit of river that flows between the promenade and Prince's Island were making a quite a racket. The trees are naked, of course, but there's squirrels out and they're busy.
Along Bow Trail, nothing exciting. Same as when crossing the Metawa Bridge, and even along Memorial. The Path was the usual challenge, but at the top I had lots left and my breathing was quite even. That's never happened before, so was kinda cool. No slowing up a little to let my breath catch up with me.
Anyway, a good finish, and I was home before dark.
Distance: 7.17 Time: 40:31
Average speed: 5:38 min/km. (10.62 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Lovin' L n K.
Weather: Sunny and 7C
The weather is still holding out this fall, and I probably could have run in shorts, but opted for the running tights. Seems like a lot of people walk to work downtown, too. The bridge was busy, though not crowded.
On the promenade, lots of leaves blowing around and the ducks in that little bit of river that flows between the promenade and Prince's Island were making a quite a racket. The trees are naked, of course, but there's squirrels out and they're busy.
Along Bow Trail, nothing exciting. Same as when crossing the Metawa Bridge, and even along Memorial. The Path was the usual challenge, but at the top I had lots left and my breathing was quite even. That's never happened before, so was kinda cool. No slowing up a little to let my breath catch up with me.
Anyway, a good finish, and I was home before dark.
Distance: 7.17 Time: 40:31
Average speed: 5:38 min/km. (10.62 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Lovin' L n K.
Weather: Sunny and 7C
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The Wicked Wind from the West
Jeekers, it's some kind of windy out there! Warm enough for shorts and tee, so that was nice, actually spectacular given that it's mid November. But approaching the intersection where I usually start running, there seemed to be a permanent dust devel whipping leaves and other detritus into the air.
I was out at noon again, and it was busy. The Path Under The Stairs and The Stairs themselves were busy, but the start was good. I ran up on the bridge and took the ramp down to the trail beside Memorial Drive.
It wasn't too bad in the trees, but in any clear space, it was a battle against the wind. And I was never sure which way it was coming from, only that it was coming from in front of me.
Someone had pulled in behind me as I took that ramp and they were drafting me, too. It's a little weird having someone just hanging a few feet back off of your shoulder. The awareness that someone is behind you kind of dominates the run, and I find I'm wishing they'd just pass me already.
Anyway, up onto the Metawa Bridge at 14th Street, and down the other side by Bow Trail. Really busy with lots of runners along there. My shadow seemed to fall back a little with the traffic.
After passing the C-Train bridge, and with the widening of the promenade, there was more maneuvering room, but the shadow still took it's time catching up. Finally, just past the helicopter pad, she passed. And I slowed. It was like a pressure valve was suddenly release. Silly, but that's some of the psychology of running.
After that, I crossed Prince's Island and the bridge. I took the two flights of steps up The Stairs to the landing that empties out on The Path. That was slow, with the crowd climbing in front of me. The Path was a slog but I was pushing it, and was breathing hard at the top. The rest of the run was recovering from that effort, trying to get my breathing evened out.
Distance: 7.00 Time: 40:19
Average speed: 5:45 min/km. (10.42 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Easy L n K.
Weather: Sunny and 12C
I was out at noon again, and it was busy. The Path Under The Stairs and The Stairs themselves were busy, but the start was good. I ran up on the bridge and took the ramp down to the trail beside Memorial Drive.
It wasn't too bad in the trees, but in any clear space, it was a battle against the wind. And I was never sure which way it was coming from, only that it was coming from in front of me.
Someone had pulled in behind me as I took that ramp and they were drafting me, too. It's a little weird having someone just hanging a few feet back off of your shoulder. The awareness that someone is behind you kind of dominates the run, and I find I'm wishing they'd just pass me already.
Anyway, up onto the Metawa Bridge at 14th Street, and down the other side by Bow Trail. Really busy with lots of runners along there. My shadow seemed to fall back a little with the traffic.
After passing the C-Train bridge, and with the widening of the promenade, there was more maneuvering room, but the shadow still took it's time catching up. Finally, just past the helicopter pad, she passed. And I slowed. It was like a pressure valve was suddenly release. Silly, but that's some of the psychology of running.
After that, I crossed Prince's Island and the bridge. I took the two flights of steps up The Stairs to the landing that empties out on The Path. That was slow, with the crowd climbing in front of me. The Path was a slog but I was pushing it, and was breathing hard at the top. The rest of the run was recovering from that effort, trying to get my breathing evened out.
Distance: 7.00 Time: 40:19
Average speed: 5:45 min/km. (10.42 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Easy L n K.
Weather: Sunny and 12C
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Chinooky Run
Windy as heck out there this morning, and the temperature had been on a steady climb since late last night. Not super warm but the trend was typical of a chinook.
I wandered westward from my front door toward the nearest mailbox, dropping in a couple of envelopes. And from there I walked south for about a block before the GPS finally found itself. This put me almost half a kilometer farther from my usual start.
Out on to the bluff, with a brisk and slightly chilly wind at my back. There weren't a lot of people out up there, and it was quiet all the way to the Centre Street bridge. Even there, there was no one around.
I passed a couple of guys doing tai chi by Sen Lok Park, then past the dam and duck pond to find orange cones across my path at Eau Claire. I was about an hour and twenty minutes ahead of the Last Chance Half Marathon. I wasn't sure of the start time, but hoped I would be out of the way when it started.
The wind was pretty fierce while running west. Open stretches along the south side of the river past the promenade were where it really got in the way, and I was happy to get into the bush near The Pumphouse.
At Crowchild, the race cones directed traffic onto the footbridge across the river. I kept going straight. I thought that any ice in the sheltered stretch below Spruce Cliff, left from the snows we had a few weeks ago, would be melted by now. I forgot about the natural springs.
The usual drainage for the springs was iced up and blocked and flow is crossing the path. Ice is building up in a few places and it's wet with new water flowing over it. Extremely slippery. I hugged the fence and kept to the strip of leaves piled against it, but still managed to get one foot wet.
After the ice it was clear and almost windless with the bush close into the path. The only spot where the wind made itself felt was just before crossing the tracks into the picnic area of Edworthy.
Across the river, the wind was at my back, and I began to feel a little overdressed. Without the wind, it would have been a good day for shorts. The few trees along the river bank did little to block the wind, so I was glad to have it behind me.
Near Crowchild, I passed the turn around point for the race, and one of the lead runners was just arriving. And nearing Crowchild itself, I met two more coming off the ramp up to the footbridge. Those two too a little while to catch up to me, but not really that long. I can't even imagine keeping up a pace like that for 21 kilometres.
Walkers must have started much earlier as I began to pass many with the racing bibs. Meanwhile across the river, the path was positively crowded. The three kilometre marker was about half way between 14th Street and Crowchild, so the field wouldn't have had time to spread out too much by then.
I kept passing walkers and being passed by runners as I continued along Memorial Drive. At the ramp to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, there was a small crowd. They cheered and clapped as one of the runners that had just passed me trundled by them. They were conspicuously quiet as I came up to them, although there was one guy self consciously clapping with a subdued woohoo to go with it.
The Path Under The Stairs was, as usual, strenuous and so not my favourite part of the run. At the top I was glad to see the chinook arch had moved significantly eastward. The mountains were unobscured and in full sunlight, stark against the pale blue of the sky near the horizon.
I was running full on into that blasted wind and was glad to finally turn northward toward my finish line.
Today's run:
Distance: 17.02 Time: 1:37:32
Average speed: 5:43 min/km. (10.47 kph)
Rest distance: 1.08 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 18.10 km. Total time: 1:47:32.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Cloudy and 7C.
I wandered westward from my front door toward the nearest mailbox, dropping in a couple of envelopes. And from there I walked south for about a block before the GPS finally found itself. This put me almost half a kilometer farther from my usual start.
Out on to the bluff, with a brisk and slightly chilly wind at my back. There weren't a lot of people out up there, and it was quiet all the way to the Centre Street bridge. Even there, there was no one around.
I passed a couple of guys doing tai chi by Sen Lok Park, then past the dam and duck pond to find orange cones across my path at Eau Claire. I was about an hour and twenty minutes ahead of the Last Chance Half Marathon. I wasn't sure of the start time, but hoped I would be out of the way when it started.
The wind was pretty fierce while running west. Open stretches along the south side of the river past the promenade were where it really got in the way, and I was happy to get into the bush near The Pumphouse.
At Crowchild, the race cones directed traffic onto the footbridge across the river. I kept going straight. I thought that any ice in the sheltered stretch below Spruce Cliff, left from the snows we had a few weeks ago, would be melted by now. I forgot about the natural springs.
The usual drainage for the springs was iced up and blocked and flow is crossing the path. Ice is building up in a few places and it's wet with new water flowing over it. Extremely slippery. I hugged the fence and kept to the strip of leaves piled against it, but still managed to get one foot wet.
After the ice it was clear and almost windless with the bush close into the path. The only spot where the wind made itself felt was just before crossing the tracks into the picnic area of Edworthy.
Across the river, the wind was at my back, and I began to feel a little overdressed. Without the wind, it would have been a good day for shorts. The few trees along the river bank did little to block the wind, so I was glad to have it behind me.
Near Crowchild, I passed the turn around point for the race, and one of the lead runners was just arriving. And nearing Crowchild itself, I met two more coming off the ramp up to the footbridge. Those two too a little while to catch up to me, but not really that long. I can't even imagine keeping up a pace like that for 21 kilometres.
Walkers must have started much earlier as I began to pass many with the racing bibs. Meanwhile across the river, the path was positively crowded. The three kilometre marker was about half way between 14th Street and Crowchild, so the field wouldn't have had time to spread out too much by then.
I kept passing walkers and being passed by runners as I continued along Memorial Drive. At the ramp to the foot bridge to Prince's Island, there was a small crowd. They cheered and clapped as one of the runners that had just passed me trundled by them. They were conspicuously quiet as I came up to them, although there was one guy self consciously clapping with a subdued woohoo to go with it.
The Path Under The Stairs was, as usual, strenuous and so not my favourite part of the run. At the top I was glad to see the chinook arch had moved significantly eastward. The mountains were unobscured and in full sunlight, stark against the pale blue of the sky near the horizon.
I was running full on into that blasted wind and was glad to finally turn northward toward my finish line.
Today's run:
Distance: 17.02 Time: 1:37:32
Average speed: 5:43 min/km. (10.47 kph)
Rest distance: 1.08 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 18.10 km. Total time: 1:47:32.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Cloudy and 7C.
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Dark Already???
Man, the time change really twisted things. Suddenly it's dark almost as soon as I get home. Well, not quite, but if I go for a run as soon as I get home, it's almost dark by the time I finish. And now sitting here after a shower after the run, it is dark.
Today was one of those days. A chinook came up, and we could almost be back in mid summer, except for the naked trees. I didn't wear my jacket coming home, and it was perfect for shorts and tee shirt.
The sun was still up when I got to the bluff, and there were some interesting and dramatic cloud shapes on the horizon, back lit by the setting sun. A few minutes later, they were out of sight as I was down by the river.
I swam upstream against the flow of people coming home from downtown, crossing the bridge to Prince's Island. West on the promenade after that, and lots of people deciding to walk home. Not crowded but busy. Almost like a lunch time crowd on one of those gorgeous summer Fridays before a long weekend. That kind of density.
Mostly though, it was a pretty standard run. Lots of crunchy leaves blowing around a bit. And getting darker and darker. I hit The Path Under The Stairs and powered upward, not totally flat out, but I had a good pace. At the top, I ran toward the light, sort of. Westward along the top of the bluff, and then turning toward home.
Last Sunday's run (Nov 1):
Distance: 16.55 Time: 1:35:41
Average speed: 6:02 min/km. (10.18 kph)
Rest distance: .97 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.52 km. Total time: 1:45:41.
Last Tuesday's run (Nov 3):
Distance: 7.13 Time: 38:50
Average speed: 5:27 min/km. (10.32 kph)
Tonight's run:
Distance: 7.23 Time: 39:58
Average speed: 5:32 min/km. (10.32 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K Blues.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 15C.
Today was one of those days. A chinook came up, and we could almost be back in mid summer, except for the naked trees. I didn't wear my jacket coming home, and it was perfect for shorts and tee shirt.
The sun was still up when I got to the bluff, and there were some interesting and dramatic cloud shapes on the horizon, back lit by the setting sun. A few minutes later, they were out of sight as I was down by the river.
I swam upstream against the flow of people coming home from downtown, crossing the bridge to Prince's Island. West on the promenade after that, and lots of people deciding to walk home. Not crowded but busy. Almost like a lunch time crowd on one of those gorgeous summer Fridays before a long weekend. That kind of density.
Mostly though, it was a pretty standard run. Lots of crunchy leaves blowing around a bit. And getting darker and darker. I hit The Path Under The Stairs and powered upward, not totally flat out, but I had a good pace. At the top, I ran toward the light, sort of. Westward along the top of the bluff, and then turning toward home.
Last Sunday's run (Nov 1):
Distance: 16.55 Time: 1:35:41
Average speed: 6:02 min/km. (10.18 kph)
Rest distance: .97 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.52 km. Total time: 1:45:41.
Last Tuesday's run (Nov 3):
Distance: 7.13 Time: 38:50
Average speed: 5:27 min/km. (10.32 kph)
Tonight's run:
Distance: 7.23 Time: 39:58
Average speed: 5:32 min/km. (10.32 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K Blues.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 15C.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Luverly Lunch Run
Holy cow, what crazy weather! It was cool and damp this morning, but by noon, the sun was out. At least that's what I saw just as I went to change for a run. Then stepping out the door, it was snowing lightly. By the time I'd gone a block, visibility was down to a kilometre in heavy snow. And yet the sun was still shining. Very weird.
Anyway, down to the bluff, and down The Path. By the time I was half way down, the snow had stopped. As it is said, if you don't like the weather in Calgary, wait five minutes.
I was up for something different today. So at the point on the foot bridge where I could have turned right to take the ramp down to the path beside Memorial Drive, I went left, down the stairs to the same path, but going east.
Nothing much to say about it. There were a few runners, but after I crossed under the lower level of the Centre Street bridge, they petered out. It was nice though. It's been well over a year since I've gone that way.
I crossed the river at the Langevin Bridge, the old iron one that takes Edmonton Trail into downtown, and at the far end found lots of change. 4th Street no longer exists of the end of the bridge, but you can turn hard left onto an newly extended Riverfront Avenue.
Going west from the bridge, new sidewalk followed Riverfront, but the path is gone for two blocks or so. All dug up, and I hope they replace it. About half way down is a short detour path that goes back to that path on the edge of the river bank.
Under the Centre Street Bridge again, and along the promenade (esplanade?). At this point, I began to wonder how far this route would take me. I wanted at least 7 km, but I was thinking it would be too short if I headed homeward right at Prince's Island.
And it was way too short. I was just over 5 km, and the way back home would barely add a kilometre and a half. I briefly thought of running to the far end of the island and coming back through it, but that still wouldn't have been long enough.
So I continued to the C-Train bridge near the Metawa bridge to 10th Street. Back along the berm beside Memorial Drive, up the ramp and across to the curling club, and up a couple of flights of The Stairs to The Path.
At this point I was close to 7 km, and that was fine. I continued up to the top of the bluff, and along it to the top of The Stairs. From there I headed straight north instead of continuing to 4th Street. And in a few minutes I was home.
Distance: 7.91 Time: 46:00
Average speed: 5:49 min/km. (10.32 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Rockin' L n K.
Weather: Cloudy and 4C.
Anyway, down to the bluff, and down The Path. By the time I was half way down, the snow had stopped. As it is said, if you don't like the weather in Calgary, wait five minutes.
I was up for something different today. So at the point on the foot bridge where I could have turned right to take the ramp down to the path beside Memorial Drive, I went left, down the stairs to the same path, but going east.
Nothing much to say about it. There were a few runners, but after I crossed under the lower level of the Centre Street bridge, they petered out. It was nice though. It's been well over a year since I've gone that way.
I crossed the river at the Langevin Bridge, the old iron one that takes Edmonton Trail into downtown, and at the far end found lots of change. 4th Street no longer exists of the end of the bridge, but you can turn hard left onto an newly extended Riverfront Avenue.
Going west from the bridge, new sidewalk followed Riverfront, but the path is gone for two blocks or so. All dug up, and I hope they replace it. About half way down is a short detour path that goes back to that path on the edge of the river bank.
Under the Centre Street Bridge again, and along the promenade (esplanade?). At this point, I began to wonder how far this route would take me. I wanted at least 7 km, but I was thinking it would be too short if I headed homeward right at Prince's Island.
And it was way too short. I was just over 5 km, and the way back home would barely add a kilometre and a half. I briefly thought of running to the far end of the island and coming back through it, but that still wouldn't have been long enough.
So I continued to the C-Train bridge near the Metawa bridge to 10th Street. Back along the berm beside Memorial Drive, up the ramp and across to the curling club, and up a couple of flights of The Stairs to The Path.
At this point I was close to 7 km, and that was fine. I continued up to the top of the bluff, and along it to the top of The Stairs. From there I headed straight north instead of continuing to 4th Street. And in a few minutes I was home.
Distance: 7.91 Time: 46:00
Average speed: 5:49 min/km. (10.32 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Rockin' L n K.
Weather: Cloudy and 4C.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Love My Sunday Run
Got another bright clear crisp morning to run in. The mountains are all white in their winter shrouds, but oh, so sharp and clear on the horizon. Another sign that summer has passed - no forest fire smoke.
I broke onto Cresent Road and headed sunward. I had a feeling that it wasn't going to be a fast run, and I was more than good with that. A wonderful L n K note to everything, such a clear a beautiful day. I ran along the street, crossing over to the shale path as the guard rail turns into posts at the top of The Stairs.
At the top of The Path I headed instead down Nony's Awful Little Hill towards Centre Street. The Bow is looming large now. The thing is huge and it going to completely dominate the skyline in a few short months. It takes up a substantial part of the view ahead when running down the bridge.
At the far end, I took the little ramp down to the promenade and headed past the Tai Chi practitioners by Sein Lok Park. you know, I think esplanade might be a more accurate term, but promenade sounds right. I was running a little later than usual, and I think I missed most of the group runs, but there were still lots of people out.
It was pretty run of the mill, running wise, all the way to Crowchild. And there, I crossed to the north side of the river. Last week there were lots of icy spots along the trail below Spruce Cliff, and I thought that after the snowfall we had yesterday morning, it might be much worse. The season is pretty much over for that trail.
I thought maybe the running trails might have a few icy spots as well, but they were totally clear. And there was more traffic along the Parkdale Boulevard stretch. Busy. Steady.
Near the Edworthy bridge, a group was forming for a dog walk. I passed them just as they started out, and looped around Angel's Cafe. After a quick stop at the public washroom, I very quickly caught up to the dog walkers again.
The rest of the run was uneventful. Legs felt good, breathing was good. I was in a nice groove. I managed to hit The Path Under The Stairs just as a walk break started, so avoided running the steepest part. Powered up the rest.
The run along the bluff was lovely, still a crystal clear view of the western horizon. And then I was across Cresent Road and heading home.
Distance: 16.35 Time: 1:36:20
Average speed: 5:53 min/km. (10.18 kph)
Rest distance: .95 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.30 km. Total time: 1:46:15.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Rhythm and Blues L n K.
Weather: Sunny and -3C.
I broke onto Cresent Road and headed sunward. I had a feeling that it wasn't going to be a fast run, and I was more than good with that. A wonderful L n K note to everything, such a clear a beautiful day. I ran along the street, crossing over to the shale path as the guard rail turns into posts at the top of The Stairs.
At the top of The Path I headed instead down Nony's Awful Little Hill towards Centre Street. The Bow is looming large now. The thing is huge and it going to completely dominate the skyline in a few short months. It takes up a substantial part of the view ahead when running down the bridge.
At the far end, I took the little ramp down to the promenade and headed past the Tai Chi practitioners by Sein Lok Park. you know, I think esplanade might be a more accurate term, but promenade sounds right. I was running a little later than usual, and I think I missed most of the group runs, but there were still lots of people out.
It was pretty run of the mill, running wise, all the way to Crowchild. And there, I crossed to the north side of the river. Last week there were lots of icy spots along the trail below Spruce Cliff, and I thought that after the snowfall we had yesterday morning, it might be much worse. The season is pretty much over for that trail.
I thought maybe the running trails might have a few icy spots as well, but they were totally clear. And there was more traffic along the Parkdale Boulevard stretch. Busy. Steady.
Near the Edworthy bridge, a group was forming for a dog walk. I passed them just as they started out, and looped around Angel's Cafe. After a quick stop at the public washroom, I very quickly caught up to the dog walkers again.
The rest of the run was uneventful. Legs felt good, breathing was good. I was in a nice groove. I managed to hit The Path Under The Stairs just as a walk break started, so avoided running the steepest part. Powered up the rest.
The run along the bluff was lovely, still a crystal clear view of the western horizon. And then I was across Cresent Road and heading home.
Distance: 16.35 Time: 1:36:20
Average speed: 5:53 min/km. (10.18 kph)
Rest distance: .95 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.30 km. Total time: 1:46:15.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: Rhythm and Blues L n K.
Weather: Sunny and -3C.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
A Little Run
I was working from home today, so got out for a lunch time run. It was a little chilly, but not so bad. It would have been un-noticed except the darn GPS took it's time syncing up to satellites. I stood at the intersection where I usually start to run, staring at it on my wrist, resisting the temptation to wave it at the sky, in case that would help it find it's way.
About two minutes maybe, and it was locked in. But I'd noticed the breeze by then. It didn't make any difference, since by the time I reached Cresent Road, I was more or less warmed up.
It was pretty grey out. It had been raining first thing this morning, and then there had been a brief explosion of sunlight about mid-morning. I could see the far reaches of the city from the bluff, but the mountains were lost in the grey.
Down The Path and then along Memorial Drive. Reasonably busy with runners and walkers, but not crowded. I ran to 14th and crossed the river there, then back along Bow Trail. Quiet. Steady. It was a little more crowded on the promenade after I passed under the bridge at 9th street (10th Street at the other end, angling a little in its crossing.)
I think I've run that route enough that I sometimes get into a kind of mindless state, not really noticing where I'm going. Running on auto.
At The Stairs I ran to the first landing and on to The Path. I'd started out feeling breathless and heavy, but climbing those stairs seemed to wake me up a little, and I climbed The Path a little aggressively.
At the top, I pushed rather hard, actually. My breathing gets away on me on The Path, especially after the steepest part, and I usually slow along the top to let my breathing slow a little. Today, I just kept pushing. I was keeping a rather slow cadence to my stride but stretching each step quite a bit.
Once I turned off the path along the bluff and onto 4th Street, I was really loping along. And then I was done.
Distance: 6.89 Time: 39:32
Average speed: 5:44 min/km. (10.46 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Cloudy and 4C.
About two minutes maybe, and it was locked in. But I'd noticed the breeze by then. It didn't make any difference, since by the time I reached Cresent Road, I was more or less warmed up.
It was pretty grey out. It had been raining first thing this morning, and then there had been a brief explosion of sunlight about mid-morning. I could see the far reaches of the city from the bluff, but the mountains were lost in the grey.
Down The Path and then along Memorial Drive. Reasonably busy with runners and walkers, but not crowded. I ran to 14th and crossed the river there, then back along Bow Trail. Quiet. Steady. It was a little more crowded on the promenade after I passed under the bridge at 9th street (10th Street at the other end, angling a little in its crossing.)
I think I've run that route enough that I sometimes get into a kind of mindless state, not really noticing where I'm going. Running on auto.
At The Stairs I ran to the first landing and on to The Path. I'd started out feeling breathless and heavy, but climbing those stairs seemed to wake me up a little, and I climbed The Path a little aggressively.
At the top, I pushed rather hard, actually. My breathing gets away on me on The Path, especially after the steepest part, and I usually slow along the top to let my breathing slow a little. Today, I just kept pushing. I was keeping a rather slow cadence to my stride but stretching each step quite a bit.
Once I turned off the path along the bluff and onto 4th Street, I was really loping along. And then I was done.
Distance: 6.89 Time: 39:32
Average speed: 5:44 min/km. (10.46 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Cloudy and 4C.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
A Grey Sunday
Or should I say a gray Sunday? Is it grey or gray? Is this one of those Canadian/American spelling things?
It's actually a very nice day this morning, even if it's grey and threatening to rain. Even if it's not drizzling, it looks like it should be. But not too cool. I did wear the running gloves I got in the swag bag from my last marathon.
The GPS grabbed a satellite right off, and I started running as soon as I stepped across the manhole cover a block down the street - my starting line. All they way to Cresent Road and the bluff, my knees were a little complainy. But I was soon oblivious to them.
I did notice them on the steep part of Nony's Awful Little Hill going down to the Centre Street bridge. That was the last I noticed of them until I got home and had to climb the stairs after showering.
Crossing the bridge I could see a lot of runners below on the trail along the river. I think it was the Gorilla Run. Over the bridge and down onto th promenade, and past Sein Lok Park and the new condos being built where the old Greyhound bus barns used to be.
It wasn't exactly quiet on the trails this morning, but it traffic was sparse. It seemed like even the running groups weren't out, although I think they were probably out earlier.
The trail was damp, like it had rained. I imagine there was some rain overnight, and at times it felt like there was a little bit of a misting happening. The Lawrey Conservation area trails were good, a little bit of ice here and there from the snowfalls we got last week.
The trail below Spruce Cliff was different. In places it was quite treacherous, and after watching the woman who had just passed me nearly wipe out, we both tiptoed along the pile of leaves against the chain link fence separating the path from the railroad tracks.
After the first couple of rolling hills, and into the flatter part, where it's more sheltered, the ice got thicker, but less slippery. The trail wound as it does along the bottom of the cliff under the Douglas fir. And then I was out of the trees, off the ice and traipsing through the picnic area at Edworthy, where a hundred or so, mostly women were dressed for running and carrying bags and bags of bras, many pink. I have no info on what this was about, although there was a sandwich board out in the middle of the picnic area that probably explained it.
On the far side, after a quick bathroom stop, it was more quiet running. At times there was traffic that seemed like a typical Sunday, and at times it seemed like I was the only one out there.
I couldn't decide if I was running fast or typical. I didn't feel used up like I do when I'm pushing hard and my pace is near 5:10/km, which is what I usually feel near the end of the run. But I felt slow at times. The GPS said I was merely being consistent, running about 5:40 more or less all through the entire run.
At The Stairs, I had some bounce on the steps, and instead of running up the two flights to the landing that I could get on The Path Under The Stairs, I kept climbing. I managed to run all the way up, though was puffing hard at the top.
And then I ran the length of the bluff to 4th Street and then homeward.
Distance: 16.49 Time: 1:35:15
Average speed: 5:46 min/km. (10.07 kph)
Rest distance: 1.03 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.51 km. Total time: 1:45:15.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K - wonderful music.
Weather: Starting in fog, and ending in light drizzle, but that was at the airport. 4C all through.
It's actually a very nice day this morning, even if it's grey and threatening to rain. Even if it's not drizzling, it looks like it should be. But not too cool. I did wear the running gloves I got in the swag bag from my last marathon.
The GPS grabbed a satellite right off, and I started running as soon as I stepped across the manhole cover a block down the street - my starting line. All they way to Cresent Road and the bluff, my knees were a little complainy. But I was soon oblivious to them.
I did notice them on the steep part of Nony's Awful Little Hill going down to the Centre Street bridge. That was the last I noticed of them until I got home and had to climb the stairs after showering.
Crossing the bridge I could see a lot of runners below on the trail along the river. I think it was the Gorilla Run. Over the bridge and down onto th promenade, and past Sein Lok Park and the new condos being built where the old Greyhound bus barns used to be.
It wasn't exactly quiet on the trails this morning, but it traffic was sparse. It seemed like even the running groups weren't out, although I think they were probably out earlier.
The trail was damp, like it had rained. I imagine there was some rain overnight, and at times it felt like there was a little bit of a misting happening. The Lawrey Conservation area trails were good, a little bit of ice here and there from the snowfalls we got last week.
The trail below Spruce Cliff was different. In places it was quite treacherous, and after watching the woman who had just passed me nearly wipe out, we both tiptoed along the pile of leaves against the chain link fence separating the path from the railroad tracks.
After the first couple of rolling hills, and into the flatter part, where it's more sheltered, the ice got thicker, but less slippery. The trail wound as it does along the bottom of the cliff under the Douglas fir. And then I was out of the trees, off the ice and traipsing through the picnic area at Edworthy, where a hundred or so, mostly women were dressed for running and carrying bags and bags of bras, many pink. I have no info on what this was about, although there was a sandwich board out in the middle of the picnic area that probably explained it.
On the far side, after a quick bathroom stop, it was more quiet running. At times there was traffic that seemed like a typical Sunday, and at times it seemed like I was the only one out there.
I couldn't decide if I was running fast or typical. I didn't feel used up like I do when I'm pushing hard and my pace is near 5:10/km, which is what I usually feel near the end of the run. But I felt slow at times. The GPS said I was merely being consistent, running about 5:40 more or less all through the entire run.
At The Stairs, I had some bounce on the steps, and instead of running up the two flights to the landing that I could get on The Path Under The Stairs, I kept climbing. I managed to run all the way up, though was puffing hard at the top.
And then I ran the length of the bluff to 4th Street and then homeward.
Distance: 16.49 Time: 1:35:15
Average speed: 5:46 min/km. (10.07 kph)
Rest distance: 1.03 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.51 km. Total time: 1:45:15.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K - wonderful music.
Weather: Starting in fog, and ending in light drizzle, but that was at the airport. 4C all through.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Whoops, Missed One!
Oh yeah, I was out yesterday too, in the snow. Darned icy on the side street to the bluff, but after that it was soft and slow in the ankle deep stuff along the bluff, and then the paths were clear. Good run, too.
My stats:
Distance: 7.14 Time: 42:32
Average speed: 5:57 min/km. (10.07 kph)
My stats:
Distance: 7.14 Time: 42:32
Average speed: 5:57 min/km. (10.07 kph)
Still Here
Hey, I'm still here, still running. Well, slacking a little. But I've been out a few times in the last couple of weeks. Like on September 29th:
Distance: 6.74 Time: 39:00
Average speed: 5:46 min/km. (10.37 kph)
And then on October 3rd:
Distance: 16.87 Time: 1:33:05
Average speed: 5:37 min/km. (10.87 kph)
Rest distance: .94 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.81 km. Total time: 1:43:05.
And then there was October 6th:
Distance: 7.05 Time: 39:47
Average speed: 5:38 min/km. (10.63 kph)
And finally on October 12th:
Distance: 6.75 Time: 40:47
Average speed: 5:59 min/km. (10.01 kph)
So I'm still moving, still racking up some kilometres. They're not the most exciting of running experiences. Still, I keep trying to get here and add a post. And I finally made it.
Cheers!
Distance: 6.74 Time: 39:00
Average speed: 5:46 min/km. (10.37 kph)
And then on October 3rd:
Distance: 16.87 Time: 1:33:05
Average speed: 5:37 min/km. (10.87 kph)
Rest distance: .94 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.81 km. Total time: 1:43:05.
And then there was October 6th:
Distance: 7.05 Time: 39:47
Average speed: 5:38 min/km. (10.63 kph)
And finally on October 12th:
Distance: 6.75 Time: 40:47
Average speed: 5:59 min/km. (10.01 kph)
So I'm still moving, still racking up some kilometres. They're not the most exciting of running experiences. Still, I keep trying to get here and add a post. And I finally made it.
Cheers!
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Autumn is Here!
Just a beautiful fall day today. Sunny and crisp this morning, and just cool enough to need a jacket by afternoon.
I did run earlier this week, on Tuesday when the temps soared to 28. It was even hotter the next couple of days, but I didn't get to run again until to day
From Tuesday:
Distance: 6.97 Time: 41:16
Average speed: 5:55 min/km. (10.69 kph)
Today was clear, with a slight breeze. I headed down to Centre Street to cross the river, and then down on the promenade. It must have been the time of day - I was out a little earlier than usual - but there were huge crowds running in groups. I met several all the way to Crowchild.
Several others were out too. And by the look of everyone, I was rather underdressed. I stuck with shorts and tee, while everyone else seemed to be dressed for winter weather, with running tights and jackets. I have to admit, it did take awhile to warm up. It was a good half hour before my hands were fully warmed.
The trail through Lawrey Gardens was gorgeous, all the trees in fall colours, and still mostly having their leaves. Lots of leaves on the ground too. It was really pretty along the bottom of Spruce Cliff.
After crossing at Edworthy and starting back, it was a little busier on the trail. I think a lot of people just stay on the north side of the river when they get west of Crowchild, and I think they're missing a very scenic run.
The crowd seemed to thin the farther east I went, although once near the CBC studios it was busy enough. I was have a pretty consistent day, not like my slow start, fast middle, and achy stiff end that I usually have. Well I still had that achy stiff end. But my pace was pretty consistent throughout the run.
Still chilly at the end, but a great run and I had lots of morning left, too.
Distance: 16.61 Time: 1:34:00
Average speed: 5:39 min/km. (9.9 kph)
Rest distance: 1.01 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.63 km. Total time: 1:44:00.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K - I think it's permanent.
Weather: Sunny and 4C to start, rising to 8C.
I did run earlier this week, on Tuesday when the temps soared to 28. It was even hotter the next couple of days, but I didn't get to run again until to day
From Tuesday:
Distance: 6.97 Time: 41:16
Average speed: 5:55 min/km. (10.69 kph)
Today was clear, with a slight breeze. I headed down to Centre Street to cross the river, and then down on the promenade. It must have been the time of day - I was out a little earlier than usual - but there were huge crowds running in groups. I met several all the way to Crowchild.
Several others were out too. And by the look of everyone, I was rather underdressed. I stuck with shorts and tee, while everyone else seemed to be dressed for winter weather, with running tights and jackets. I have to admit, it did take awhile to warm up. It was a good half hour before my hands were fully warmed.
The trail through Lawrey Gardens was gorgeous, all the trees in fall colours, and still mostly having their leaves. Lots of leaves on the ground too. It was really pretty along the bottom of Spruce Cliff.
After crossing at Edworthy and starting back, it was a little busier on the trail. I think a lot of people just stay on the north side of the river when they get west of Crowchild, and I think they're missing a very scenic run.
The crowd seemed to thin the farther east I went, although once near the CBC studios it was busy enough. I was have a pretty consistent day, not like my slow start, fast middle, and achy stiff end that I usually have. Well I still had that achy stiff end. But my pace was pretty consistent throughout the run.
Still chilly at the end, but a great run and I had lots of morning left, too.
Distance: 16.61 Time: 1:34:00
Average speed: 5:39 min/km. (9.9 kph)
Rest distance: 1.01 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.63 km. Total time: 1:44:00.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K - I think it's permanent.
Weather: Sunny and 4C to start, rising to 8C.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Rainy Fall Sunday
Well, so much for that beautiful fall weather. Except it's still a lovely day for late September. Even now, it's clearing off and becoming sunny, if a bit breezy.
Anyway, two runs this week, that I didn't get to writing up about:
September 15:
Distance: 7.10 Time: 39:51
Average speed: 5:36 min/km. (10.69 kph)
September 17:
Distance: 7.00 Time: 40:49
Average speed: 5:49 min/km. (10.29 kph)
Anyway, today started grey and rainy. Not all that cold though; I was out with shorts and long sleeve tee shirt. The rain had almost stopped when I got out the door. The one block walk to start while the GPS found satellites went really quick, and I was running toward the bluff.
I was still undecided about what I wanted to do. I briefly considered running east along the river, so would have needed to take The Path, but at the point where I would have turned, I continued the other way toward the Centre Street bridge.
I ran toward Eau Claire then, and cut through by the wading pool, now all dried up and deserted. One of those September sights that are a slightly sad reminder that summer is done.
Lots of those tents with no walls were set up, and a band was warming up for the AIDS Walk. It was still pretty early yet, so there were too many people out.
I ran straight up 3rd Street to 7th Avenue, turning right and crossing over to continue up 4th Street. About this time the rain started up again in earnest. It was quite light, almost a mist, but I got wet enough. I didn't really notice it too much.
It didn't take long to get to 17th Avenue and across. Traffic was still pretty light. I continued on 4th, and curiously was kind of head down and unaware of what was going by. I sort of woke up across from the old theatre that's a Jugo Juice now.
At the Earl's, I crossed to the other side of 4th since the lights were favourable. Past the Tech Shop, Wildwood and then the Safeway, I crossed with the light to the river side of Elbow Drive.
It's been a couple of years since I've ran along the Elbow. It's a nice running route, and a few were out in the rain going the other way. I slowed to a walk at the suspension bridge at 31st Avenue, and crossed. It's way too bouncy to run across. Down the street to the end of the cul-de-sac where the trail along the river picks up.
There were big groups of runners out down there. I passed a couple while climbing a bit of an uphill grade. I passed the monster mansions on the other side of the river, where the last time I was down that way a little white dog cavorted in one of the yards while a coyote on my side of the river watched intently.
Around a curve where the river bank is reinforced with concrete slabs, and I was in Stanley Park, still passing small groups of runners. Past the park and along the street where a friend used to live. She'd sold the place about three years ago, a beautiful little character home, that was replaced almost immediately by a huge monster of a house.
The underpass under Elbow drive came up fast and it's just a nice little dip under the street adjacent to the river. On the other side the trail only goes another fifty metres or so before turning toward the street. Riverdale Avenue is a picturesque street, with big mature trees, and more monster mansions on massive plots of land.
I met a couple more large groups running the other way on this street, following the long slow curve toward the south. It ends at a parking lot and a path that leads through Riverdale Park, open and grassy among some trees closer to the river, with the odd loose dog chasing a ball.
I soon came to another suspension bridge, which I walked again, cross the river to Sandy Beach Park. The path splits and I went right, climbing a short steep hill that goes past public washrooms and the road up the hill to North Glenmore Park.
At this point a check on the GPS showed I had been running for just about 55 minutes. Time to turn and head back. So after a quick stop at those washrooms, I headed back down the hill and crossed the suspension bridge again.
I had planned to follow Riverdale all the way to Elbow, and follow it back to 5th Street. But at the intersection with 9th Street, there was a gap between river front houses to another suspension bridge. I took that, for a change of scenery and woundup following Sifton Avenue back to Elbow.
At Elbow, I just continued north, following the long curve of it all the way to 5th Street, and then headed north that way. Just an uneventful run to downtown. Past the new court building, I finally hit a red light at 5th Avenue, probably the first one in the whole run. And of course another one at 4th Avenue. Both busy streets.
After that I crossed 5th Street to run along beside the new Centennial Place towers on 3rd Avenue, then dodged around Canterra Tower to the Sheraton. The tents set up for the AIDS walk were still rather quiet, not too big a crowd in the rain, although by that time it had stopped.
Then through Prince's Island, across the bridge to the curling club and up The Path from The Stairs. Less than ten minutes later, I was home.
Distance: 15.37 Time: 1:33:11
Average speed: 6:03 min/km. (9.9 kph)
Rest distance: 1.07 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 16.44 km. Total time: 1:45:11.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K, of course!
Weather: Rain and 8C.
Anyway, two runs this week, that I didn't get to writing up about:
September 15:
Distance: 7.10 Time: 39:51
Average speed: 5:36 min/km. (10.69 kph)
September 17:
Distance: 7.00 Time: 40:49
Average speed: 5:49 min/km. (10.29 kph)
Anyway, today started grey and rainy. Not all that cold though; I was out with shorts and long sleeve tee shirt. The rain had almost stopped when I got out the door. The one block walk to start while the GPS found satellites went really quick, and I was running toward the bluff.
I was still undecided about what I wanted to do. I briefly considered running east along the river, so would have needed to take The Path, but at the point where I would have turned, I continued the other way toward the Centre Street bridge.
I ran toward Eau Claire then, and cut through by the wading pool, now all dried up and deserted. One of those September sights that are a slightly sad reminder that summer is done.
Lots of those tents with no walls were set up, and a band was warming up for the AIDS Walk. It was still pretty early yet, so there were too many people out.
I ran straight up 3rd Street to 7th Avenue, turning right and crossing over to continue up 4th Street. About this time the rain started up again in earnest. It was quite light, almost a mist, but I got wet enough. I didn't really notice it too much.
It didn't take long to get to 17th Avenue and across. Traffic was still pretty light. I continued on 4th, and curiously was kind of head down and unaware of what was going by. I sort of woke up across from the old theatre that's a Jugo Juice now.
At the Earl's, I crossed to the other side of 4th since the lights were favourable. Past the Tech Shop, Wildwood and then the Safeway, I crossed with the light to the river side of Elbow Drive.
It's been a couple of years since I've ran along the Elbow. It's a nice running route, and a few were out in the rain going the other way. I slowed to a walk at the suspension bridge at 31st Avenue, and crossed. It's way too bouncy to run across. Down the street to the end of the cul-de-sac where the trail along the river picks up.
There were big groups of runners out down there. I passed a couple while climbing a bit of an uphill grade. I passed the monster mansions on the other side of the river, where the last time I was down that way a little white dog cavorted in one of the yards while a coyote on my side of the river watched intently.
Around a curve where the river bank is reinforced with concrete slabs, and I was in Stanley Park, still passing small groups of runners. Past the park and along the street where a friend used to live. She'd sold the place about three years ago, a beautiful little character home, that was replaced almost immediately by a huge monster of a house.
The underpass under Elbow drive came up fast and it's just a nice little dip under the street adjacent to the river. On the other side the trail only goes another fifty metres or so before turning toward the street. Riverdale Avenue is a picturesque street, with big mature trees, and more monster mansions on massive plots of land.
I met a couple more large groups running the other way on this street, following the long slow curve toward the south. It ends at a parking lot and a path that leads through Riverdale Park, open and grassy among some trees closer to the river, with the odd loose dog chasing a ball.
I soon came to another suspension bridge, which I walked again, cross the river to Sandy Beach Park. The path splits and I went right, climbing a short steep hill that goes past public washrooms and the road up the hill to North Glenmore Park.
At this point a check on the GPS showed I had been running for just about 55 minutes. Time to turn and head back. So after a quick stop at those washrooms, I headed back down the hill and crossed the suspension bridge again.
I had planned to follow Riverdale all the way to Elbow, and follow it back to 5th Street. But at the intersection with 9th Street, there was a gap between river front houses to another suspension bridge. I took that, for a change of scenery and woundup following Sifton Avenue back to Elbow.
At Elbow, I just continued north, following the long curve of it all the way to 5th Street, and then headed north that way. Just an uneventful run to downtown. Past the new court building, I finally hit a red light at 5th Avenue, probably the first one in the whole run. And of course another one at 4th Avenue. Both busy streets.
After that I crossed 5th Street to run along beside the new Centennial Place towers on 3rd Avenue, then dodged around Canterra Tower to the Sheraton. The tents set up for the AIDS walk were still rather quiet, not too big a crowd in the rain, although by that time it had stopped.
Then through Prince's Island, across the bridge to the curling club and up The Path from The Stairs. Less than ten minutes later, I was home.
Distance: 15.37 Time: 1:33:11
Average speed: 6:03 min/km. (9.9 kph)
Rest distance: 1.07 km. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 16.44 km. Total time: 1:45:11.
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K, of course!
Weather: Rain and 8C.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
The Run That Happened
It was two days ago. Really did happen. And here I am finally writing up about it. Not that it's critical that I do, but I try to say something about when I go out. Just cuz I'm rackin' up the numbers of posts.
Anyway, it was one of those that I went out right after I got home from work and before I was on the L n K. I crossed Prince's Island right off and ran west on the south side of the river, to 14th and then back on the north side.
There is s camber to the path due to slump in the river bank. It kind of slopes toward the water in a few places. It's almost like running on a side hill, and after awhile, you can feel it in knees and ankles.
That's why I usually run the other way, so that the right side of the path is farthest from the river, and flatest. But sometimes running the other way kinda mixes things up. So I did.
Distance: 7.14 Time: 40:41
Average speed: 5:41 min/km. (10.53 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 26C.
Anyway, it was one of those that I went out right after I got home from work and before I was on the L n K. I crossed Prince's Island right off and ran west on the south side of the river, to 14th and then back on the north side.
There is s camber to the path due to slump in the river bank. It kind of slopes toward the water in a few places. It's almost like running on a side hill, and after awhile, you can feel it in knees and ankles.
That's why I usually run the other way, so that the right side of the path is farthest from the river, and flatest. But sometimes running the other way kinda mixes things up. So I did.
Distance: 7.14 Time: 40:41
Average speed: 5:41 min/km. (10.53 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 26C.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Another Hot Run
Somewhere up near 30C, but it didn't feel all that bad. Probably because of the wind. It's been brisk all day, and in fact just after I finished it came up really strong for a few minutes, and now the back yard is full of apples from the old apple tree. Nothing worth picking up, since they're pretty tiny.
On the walk from downtown tonight, this itty bitty spitty cloud followed me home, and it had turned rather grey, so I was hoping for a shower to cool things down. By the time I had a few moments of L n K time, changed and was back outside, it had slipped by and the sky was mostly clear to the west.
I walked a little to warm up, as usual, waiting for the GPS to find itself, and then was off. Not too long into it, I was pretty sweated up. I checked my pace, my stride was only a little bit off optimum.
The usual run, the usual crowd. It was nice along the promenade, actually. Kind of quiet and feeling like things were moving at a slower pace. Crossing Prince's Island and the bridge wasn't too congested either. The Stairs were another matter, but that's become usual on a warm afternoon.
And trotting along the top of the bluff to the finish, the sky was darkening again. But nary a drop of rain or cool breeze, just hot, hot wind.
Distance: 7.12 Time: 40:16
Average speed: 5:39 min/km. (10.61 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 26C.
On the walk from downtown tonight, this itty bitty spitty cloud followed me home, and it had turned rather grey, so I was hoping for a shower to cool things down. By the time I had a few moments of L n K time, changed and was back outside, it had slipped by and the sky was mostly clear to the west.
I walked a little to warm up, as usual, waiting for the GPS to find itself, and then was off. Not too long into it, I was pretty sweated up. I checked my pace, my stride was only a little bit off optimum.
The usual run, the usual crowd. It was nice along the promenade, actually. Kind of quiet and feeling like things were moving at a slower pace. Crossing Prince's Island and the bridge wasn't too congested either. The Stairs were another matter, but that's become usual on a warm afternoon.
And trotting along the top of the bluff to the finish, the sky was darkening again. But nary a drop of rain or cool breeze, just hot, hot wind.
Distance: 7.12 Time: 40:16
Average speed: 5:39 min/km. (10.61 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 26C.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Late Morning
I was working from home again, and was up for running half way through the morning. I waited a little before changing into my gear and heading out.
It was relatively quiet, so I think I was in a pre-lunch lull. Good running though, even with the temperature climbing. Down The Path and along the river, then over the 14th Street bridge and back along Bow Trail to the promenade downtown.
Oh, man, but I was feeling it. Not hurting, but just not having much in the tank. I had put in a fairly strenuous day Sunday, so the leg muscles still needed some recovery time.
The Path on the return was particularly noticeable. I was reduced to short steps, and breathing hard. Still I managed to do a respectable time, which for me is anything under 6 min/km.
Distance: 7.06 Time: 41:12
Average speed: 5:50 min/km. (10.28 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Sunny and 23C.
It was relatively quiet, so I think I was in a pre-lunch lull. Good running though, even with the temperature climbing. Down The Path and along the river, then over the 14th Street bridge and back along Bow Trail to the promenade downtown.
Oh, man, but I was feeling it. Not hurting, but just not having much in the tank. I had put in a fairly strenuous day Sunday, so the leg muscles still needed some recovery time.
The Path on the return was particularly noticeable. I was reduced to short steps, and breathing hard. Still I managed to do a respectable time, which for me is anything under 6 min/km.
Distance: 7.06 Time: 41:12
Average speed: 5:50 min/km. (10.28 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K.
Weather: Sunny and 23C.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Summer Running
Not much but a good run for a late summer noon hour. Actually I was out about an hour before noon, so missed most of the crowd. I felt mostly good, and had lots left in the tank for climbing The Path, when I got there.
I also had a great stretch session afterwards. All feeling very good, and the stiffness that has been plaguing me earlier in the summer is very much less. Lesson learned - keep up the core exercises.
Distance: 7.07 Time: 41:00
Average speed: 5:48 min/km. (10.35 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K, of course.
Weather: Sunny and 21C.
I also had a great stretch session afterwards. All feeling very good, and the stiffness that has been plaguing me earlier in the summer is very much less. Lesson learned - keep up the core exercises.
Distance: 7.07 Time: 41:00
Average speed: 5:48 min/km. (10.35 kph)
Shoes: New Balance 769.
Today's earworm: L n K, of course.
Weather: Sunny and 21C.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
