Down The Shore - The Ocean Drive Marathon
This was the smallest marathon that I have participated in (370 finishers; there were also 342 in a ten mile race). I began checking the weather about ten days ago (and yes I know it's useless and yes it drives my poor wife crazy) and right up until Saturday
the weather looked good - 50's with mild southwest winds. Instead Sunday was overcast and in the 40's -not necessarily bad running weather but it also came with stiff winds out of the north and east. Cool temps good - north winds bad.
I was a little concerned about a bruise on the top of my left foot. Not sure what did it - it's only painful with some shoes - unfortunately my Brooks dyads were one of them. I chanced wearing my ds trainers (light but no cushioning) and they worked quite well. The bruise never bothered me. In fact I was quite pleased with my condition after the run – I felt quite relaxed and have suffered very little doms (delayed onset muscle soreness) or other problems. Perhaps I am not going hard enough.
This race goes from Cape May, NJ to Sea Isle City. The ten milers stop in Wildwood. Very friendly crowd made the cold wait for the start bearable. The first couple of miles I was with a chatterbox, but then I tend to be talky during a marathon - it's one of the
contrasts between marathons and the all out of a 5k. Two runners carried on a hysterical account of the deficiencies of the host hotel complete with peeling wallpaper and tepid water.
After a couple of miles thru mostly residential streets Lower Township you go thru salt marshes. Despite the name Ocean Drive for long parts of the run you don't actually see the ocean. The salt marshes, teeming with life I suppose, provide boring vistas and are also very windy.
In Wildwoods you’re on a bike path and then the boardwalk. Wildwood has a huge expanse of beach compared to Cape May. But its boardwalk seemed dreary and tired even for the off season.
Terrific volunteers throughout the race (and this was important because there were no spectators - it has to be the least people I have ever seen over a 26 mile run. Even my marathon in Maine had more spectators.)
I only had one really slow mile when I lost my succeed tablets - it was kind of comical. I had shoved the tablets into the back pocket - at least I thought I did but I had shoved them into the shorts - it must have been a sight as I danced around trying to retrieve them.
I had worn gloves which came to be soaking wet but despite that my hands seemed warmer with them then without them, however, retrieving gels and tablets with
gloves was cumbersome. Took gels twice (probably later in the race then I should have but the first 10 miles had flew by and I just didn’t think of them.)
There's quite a long stretch (about 7 miles) thru Stone Harbor and Avalon. Wow! What homes. The amazing thing is this that these million dollar homes sit largely empty. In those seven miles I saw only a couple of people but more amazing is that there were no cars parked anywhere. This is a strictly summer community and these mansions are second homes. And though we were only a block from the ocean you don't see it at all. Partly this is because the grand homes block the view and partly because they have built up sand dunes to protect the Island. Ironically some homeowners are miffed because their view is obstructed. I think if I lived on a fragile barrier island I would learn to love sand dunes.
Out of Avalon there is one last bridge to challenge you, then briefly thru tiny Townsend Inlet before Sea Isle and a fast last mile on Sea Isle’s Promenade.
Seven bridges break up an otherwise very flat course. One bridge is under reconstruction but volunteers were placed so keep us safe. Not that I had any inclination to tempt fate by running anywhere near the railing less left side of the bridge. The bridge is not open to traffic and the sea gulls seemed to have learned to use it to open shells. Between droppings, sea shell casings, and left over calms you definitely wanted to step carefully.
Only few bends on the course, so no tangents to calculate. Because this is an early in the season race it is relatively under appreciated but it is definitely a Boston qualifier course. With relatively few long runs before hand, and steady hard effort but not pushing I finished in 3:56:56 right on goal. (I could qualify for Boston with a 3:45.)
After the race a young runner approached me and said how impressed he was with my good spirits at the 25 mile mark and that he appreciated my enthusiasm. And I must confess that I enjoyed trading quips along the route especially with the volunteers. It’s probably the lactic acid that wears away my usual reserve. I probably should stay more focused and not waste energy shouting but it wouldn’t be as much fun.
I did all my runs strictly by time and never did a run longer then 3 hours. And still ran
comfortably. I must give some credit to Succeed tablets; they have been a great tool. I can race these distances without cramps and that is a big bonus. And as long as I'm doing product placement I might as well mention blistershield - picked this up at an expo (NY?) and have been very pleased with it. A powder you put in your socks it definitely helps prevent blisters.
Now I need to plan my fall marathon.
Tuesday, March 30, 2004
Friday, March 19, 2004
Last Snowfall Run
A late winter snowfall can be very beautiful. When I went to bed last night it was raining but morning showed a street scene already covered with a wet slushy snow. I was anxious to get out on the trail for this last snow run. Because it is a wet snow all the branches are covered and sharp edges have disappeared. This is a soft snow not the hard granular snow of January but big soft flakes drifting down. The path is very wet – in one spot hardly different from a shallow stream. The heavy snow bends branches down into the path blocking the way but I learned that with a soft shake the snow drops and the branches unburdened rise like a toll barrier. I found myself shaking branches even when I could get around just to see them rise. The woods remind me of what it must have looked like to Lucy when she went thru the wardrobe into the frozen world of the White Witch. I quite liked it this morning but could imagine how it would be if spring never came. The quiet is only broken by distance traffic sounds. Running is not too bad except on the uphills where the slushy snow gives little purchase to my churning legs, but a shorten stride soon takes me to the ridge and a really gorgeous view of the snow covered valley where the stream stands out as a black ribbon thru the stark white. I wish I could linger in my snowglobe but it is already late. I wouldn’t be surprised if next week as the temperature climbs toward 60 these woods are already greening with spring.
A late winter snowfall can be very beautiful. When I went to bed last night it was raining but morning showed a street scene already covered with a wet slushy snow. I was anxious to get out on the trail for this last snow run. Because it is a wet snow all the branches are covered and sharp edges have disappeared. This is a soft snow not the hard granular snow of January but big soft flakes drifting down. The path is very wet – in one spot hardly different from a shallow stream. The heavy snow bends branches down into the path blocking the way but I learned that with a soft shake the snow drops and the branches unburdened rise like a toll barrier. I found myself shaking branches even when I could get around just to see them rise. The woods remind me of what it must have looked like to Lucy when she went thru the wardrobe into the frozen world of the White Witch. I quite liked it this morning but could imagine how it would be if spring never came. The quiet is only broken by distance traffic sounds. Running is not too bad except on the uphills where the slushy snow gives little purchase to my churning legs, but a shorten stride soon takes me to the ridge and a really gorgeous view of the snow covered valley where the stream stands out as a black ribbon thru the stark white. I wish I could linger in my snowglobe but it is already late. I wouldn’t be surprised if next week as the temperature climbs toward 60 these woods are already greening with spring.
Monday, March 15, 2004
Caesar Rodney Half Marathon
Sunday morning was gray, cold and windy: this despite forecast that a high pressure system would move in with calm winds, clear skies and warmer temps. The blur at the top of lin-mark’s result page says it all: “Start time 9:00 a.m., weather was "brisk" with winds reported at 17 miles an hour which made the start temperatures feel like 35 degrees instead of closer to 40 degrees. Weather could have been a bit better, but hey in the past few weeks we have had much worse! So thank goodness no rain or snow. This was not a day for a personal record.” (Although I know one runner who pr’d his half-marathon best – go figure!)
There was also a race director’s nightmare – potta johns ordered but a no show. 1200 runners and no facilities. Everyone running the three blocks back to the Y.
All that aside, a good day for racing. Cool overcast is really good race weather and the wind didn’t seem a factor. I did wear gloves – green gloves for St. Patrick’s Day – these were in the Philly Marathon race packet, an advertising gimmick from Citizen’s Bank. Good gimmick as I noticed dozens of runners similarly donned green gloves for the day.
I went with my Baltimore Marathon long sleeve shirt which is made by Under Armour and I must say it is a very good product. I was quite comfortable thru the race but I saw runners in cotton soaking wet. In very hot weather when you are going to be soaking wet no matter what it may not matter but in conditions like yesterday I think coolmax like products show their superiority. I am sure I will never race in cotton.
The race begins in downtown Wilmington’s Rodney Square. The race was chipped but the start mats couldn’t be used because underground wires at the intersection created interference (next year the plan is to move the start).
The first half mile is a good downhill so naturally I went out too fast. But generally I felt my pacing was good and given the hilly nature of this race pretty even. That downhill is deceiving as this elevation graphic shows. The opening four miles are urban with a tour of the underside of I95, but also passing the minor league ballpark, the outlet shopping center, and the refurbished waterfront. But the heart of the race is the steep climb thru Brandywine Park and Rockford Park along the Brandywine.
The race course goes along Kentmere Parkway past the Delaware Art Museum which is undergoing a major overhaul. Several years ago I was at the Museum in March when I saw this strange spectacle – hundreds of people running by being handed cups of water. I was as fascinated with that as anything in the Museum. I asked about it and was told I was some kind of race they did every year. The runners streamed by for a long time and I was quite taken with it – perhaps the roots of my running were sub-consciously planted right there.
This year some poor volunteer was being harangued by a woman quite put out by the road closures. I wonder what she thought he could do about it. It seemed ironic in a week where the news has so ferociously reported the “obesity crisis”. I almost wanted to stop and encourage her to walk part of the route and enjoy the closure rather then see it as a problem.
This is a race with lots of bends and twists and I worked hard to use the tangents.
Using the tangents means that rather then running with the curve you seek to run the straight line that creates the shortest possible distance.
When I was successful it did seem to enable me to past those not doing the tangent. The problem I encountered was you have to be very careful or you will cut other people off since you are going against the grain. But, it did seem to work and I will continue to practice tangents.
Out of the park and up Rt 52 and around the MBNA building and the glorious feeling that soon you will have that glorious drop back through the park. As we ran toward the park a large flock of geese flew low over head honking noisily almost as if they were cheering us on. You get the benefit of downhills well thru mile twelve. Then in that last quarter mile up that wall of a hill.
Good finish - didn't give in to the hill but ran it strong. Pushed a little hard to make sure I got in under 1:50 and did just.
Finished right in the middle of the age group and the pack:
– 1:49:58 (8:24 mile spilts) 20/44 ( M55-59) 470/831 Males.
Felt good with my finished, even tempered with the fact that the first five 60yr olds finished faster (much faster) and ever the first three 65yr olds. Well, it just means there’s no reason I can’t continue to run well for years more.
Afterwards I wanted a couple more miles so I ran backwards on the course and then down to the path along the river. They have done a very nice job here and the path is quite inviting. The river so dry a couple of years ago is in full throat and roars over the shallows. Interesting thing I saw. There was an explanation of why so many trees were cut down. It seems that Norwegian Maples are considered an alien species and an intruder that crowds out native trees. By thinning over two hundred of the maples the park hopes to encourage native species. Another urban jewel – congratulations Wilmington.
Sunday morning was gray, cold and windy: this despite forecast that a high pressure system would move in with calm winds, clear skies and warmer temps. The blur at the top of lin-mark’s result page says it all: “Start time 9:00 a.m., weather was "brisk" with winds reported at 17 miles an hour which made the start temperatures feel like 35 degrees instead of closer to 40 degrees. Weather could have been a bit better, but hey in the past few weeks we have had much worse! So thank goodness no rain or snow. This was not a day for a personal record.” (Although I know one runner who pr’d his half-marathon best – go figure!)
There was also a race director’s nightmare – potta johns ordered but a no show. 1200 runners and no facilities. Everyone running the three blocks back to the Y.
All that aside, a good day for racing. Cool overcast is really good race weather and the wind didn’t seem a factor. I did wear gloves – green gloves for St. Patrick’s Day – these were in the Philly Marathon race packet, an advertising gimmick from Citizen’s Bank. Good gimmick as I noticed dozens of runners similarly donned green gloves for the day.
I went with my Baltimore Marathon long sleeve shirt which is made by Under Armour and I must say it is a very good product. I was quite comfortable thru the race but I saw runners in cotton soaking wet. In very hot weather when you are going to be soaking wet no matter what it may not matter but in conditions like yesterday I think coolmax like products show their superiority. I am sure I will never race in cotton.
The race begins in downtown Wilmington’s Rodney Square. The race was chipped but the start mats couldn’t be used because underground wires at the intersection created interference (next year the plan is to move the start).
The first half mile is a good downhill so naturally I went out too fast. But generally I felt my pacing was good and given the hilly nature of this race pretty even. That downhill is deceiving as this elevation graphic shows. The opening four miles are urban with a tour of the underside of I95, but also passing the minor league ballpark, the outlet shopping center, and the refurbished waterfront. But the heart of the race is the steep climb thru Brandywine Park and Rockford Park along the Brandywine.
The race course goes along Kentmere Parkway past the Delaware Art Museum which is undergoing a major overhaul. Several years ago I was at the Museum in March when I saw this strange spectacle – hundreds of people running by being handed cups of water. I was as fascinated with that as anything in the Museum. I asked about it and was told I was some kind of race they did every year. The runners streamed by for a long time and I was quite taken with it – perhaps the roots of my running were sub-consciously planted right there.
This year some poor volunteer was being harangued by a woman quite put out by the road closures. I wonder what she thought he could do about it. It seemed ironic in a week where the news has so ferociously reported the “obesity crisis”. I almost wanted to stop and encourage her to walk part of the route and enjoy the closure rather then see it as a problem.
This is a race with lots of bends and twists and I worked hard to use the tangents.
Using the tangents means that rather then running with the curve you seek to run the straight line that creates the shortest possible distance.
When I was successful it did seem to enable me to past those not doing the tangent. The problem I encountered was you have to be very careful or you will cut other people off since you are going against the grain. But, it did seem to work and I will continue to practice tangents.
Out of the park and up Rt 52 and around the MBNA building and the glorious feeling that soon you will have that glorious drop back through the park. As we ran toward the park a large flock of geese flew low over head honking noisily almost as if they were cheering us on. You get the benefit of downhills well thru mile twelve. Then in that last quarter mile up that wall of a hill.
Good finish - didn't give in to the hill but ran it strong. Pushed a little hard to make sure I got in under 1:50 and did just.
Finished right in the middle of the age group and the pack:
– 1:49:58 (8:24 mile spilts) 20/44 ( M55-59) 470/831 Males.
Felt good with my finished, even tempered with the fact that the first five 60yr olds finished faster (much faster) and ever the first three 65yr olds. Well, it just means there’s no reason I can’t continue to run well for years more.
Afterwards I wanted a couple more miles so I ran backwards on the course and then down to the path along the river. They have done a very nice job here and the path is quite inviting. The river so dry a couple of years ago is in full throat and roars over the shallows. Interesting thing I saw. There was an explanation of why so many trees were cut down. It seems that Norwegian Maples are considered an alien species and an intruder that crowds out native trees. By thinning over two hundred of the maples the park hopes to encourage native species. Another urban jewel – congratulations Wilmington.
Sunday, March 14, 2004
Beautiful morning for a run.
I chose to do the paved loop in Ridley Creek Park rather then the trails. This is because the course replicates the Caesar Rodney course which I will run Sunday by half.
The park loop is about five miles if you run from the entrance. Like CR (actually CR's first half mile drops but then flattens)you start flat and then climb steadily for about a mile and a half – plateau – then go downhill for about a mile. If you look at the graphic of CR's elevation the park loop does the same thing (that graphic is very scary btw and always makes me thing what the heck are you doing!!!!).
The sun was at the perfect elevation to light the woods which glowed silver. The wind (out of the NW with gusts up to 45 mph) was terrific – the roar through the trees as loud and rumbling but at ground level I was relatively protected by the woods on either side and wasn’t bothered. For the first time in a long time I saw no deer in the park – too
many walkers and joggers I guess.
I got my newly confirgured RW yesterday. (Haven't made up my mind about the new graphics but certainly
wasn't blown away.) Read an article about downhill running. Unfortunately only learned that it's murder on your quads which I knew. I'll let you know how my great downhill goes Sunday. One thing Friday morning didn't replicate is the huge uphill at the end of CR. I've been imaging all week hoping that I will really challenge that hill.
I want to run smart on Sunday. Steady pacing with a great finish is my goal.
I chose to do the paved loop in Ridley Creek Park rather then the trails. This is because the course replicates the Caesar Rodney course which I will run Sunday by half.
The park loop is about five miles if you run from the entrance. Like CR (actually CR's first half mile drops but then flattens)you start flat and then climb steadily for about a mile and a half – plateau – then go downhill for about a mile. If you look at the graphic of CR's elevation the park loop does the same thing (that graphic is very scary btw and always makes me thing what the heck are you doing!!!!).
The sun was at the perfect elevation to light the woods which glowed silver. The wind (out of the NW with gusts up to 45 mph) was terrific – the roar through the trees as loud and rumbling but at ground level I was relatively protected by the woods on either side and wasn’t bothered. For the first time in a long time I saw no deer in the park – too
many walkers and joggers I guess.
I got my newly confirgured RW yesterday. (Haven't made up my mind about the new graphics but certainly
wasn't blown away.) Read an article about downhill running. Unfortunately only learned that it's murder on your quads which I knew. I'll let you know how my great downhill goes Sunday. One thing Friday morning didn't replicate is the huge uphill at the end of CR. I've been imaging all week hoping that I will really challenge that hill.
I want to run smart on Sunday. Steady pacing with a great finish is my goal.
Sunday, March 07, 2004
First Race of the Season
I did run a race in January but the Icicle 10 Miler lived up to its name and between the rain, sleet and slushy roads it was hardly a typical race more like a survial exercise.
Today however was just about perfect. Bright blue skies, about 47F, windy during my warm up run but I noticed it less during the race itself.
I realized my winter runs have been very solitary. Oh you would see the other occasional runner but mostly, especially on the early morning runs ,you have the road to yourself. On Friday's trail run I did over ten miles and never saw another human being. (BTW I did several stream crossings without getting wet!)
Even as recently as two weeks ago when I did my long run, much to my surprise at the time, the river drives were mostly empty.
Today the path is full of life and the parking lots full. The rowers appear to here in force and bikers are gathering for group rides. The skaters, joggers and walkers all are here in numbers. It’s pleasant to see all the variety and activity.
Today’s race is the first of my three March runs of increasing distance. Northeast Road Runners Winter 10K is a low key affair on the Kelly Drive bike path. We racers will share the path with all the other users.
I see lots of friends and acquaintances who have come out for the start of the race season. I am sure the good weather also helps the turnout. My plan is to go out hard in control and try for a negative split race. I line up with Julia who is in her first race since taking time off to have a baby. Cameron is there with his Dad to cheer Mom on (well ok as it turns out he slept thru the race but hey I got rewarded with a big smile). It turns out Julia is quite prepared for her comeback and goes out very fast. My plan is busted. Still I feel good – later in the race I am passed by two contemporaries . They had raced wisely. Still I did well and had a good sprint to the finish.
After the race and after some kibitzing I followed up with another six miles – really a beautiful morning for running and great to see so many folks out to enjoy this urban treasure. My only negative – the amount of graffiti vandalism. A tremendous amount in just the past couple of weeks. So sad. And we know how to fight it – have known for many years. The secret is to clean it up immediately not in a couple days, or couple of weeks or never. I just don’t understand why government doesn’t get it.
I
I did run a race in January but the Icicle 10 Miler lived up to its name and between the rain, sleet and slushy roads it was hardly a typical race more like a survial exercise.
Today however was just about perfect. Bright blue skies, about 47F, windy during my warm up run but I noticed it less during the race itself.
I realized my winter runs have been very solitary. Oh you would see the other occasional runner but mostly, especially on the early morning runs ,you have the road to yourself. On Friday's trail run I did over ten miles and never saw another human being. (BTW I did several stream crossings without getting wet!)
Even as recently as two weeks ago when I did my long run, much to my surprise at the time, the river drives were mostly empty.
Today the path is full of life and the parking lots full. The rowers appear to here in force and bikers are gathering for group rides. The skaters, joggers and walkers all are here in numbers. It’s pleasant to see all the variety and activity.
Today’s race is the first of my three March runs of increasing distance. Northeast Road Runners Winter 10K is a low key affair on the Kelly Drive bike path. We racers will share the path with all the other users.
I see lots of friends and acquaintances who have come out for the start of the race season. I am sure the good weather also helps the turnout. My plan is to go out hard in control and try for a negative split race. I line up with Julia who is in her first race since taking time off to have a baby. Cameron is there with his Dad to cheer Mom on (well ok as it turns out he slept thru the race but hey I got rewarded with a big smile). It turns out Julia is quite prepared for her comeback and goes out very fast. My plan is busted. Still I feel good – later in the race I am passed by two contemporaries . They had raced wisely. Still I did well and had a good sprint to the finish.
After the race and after some kibitzing I followed up with another six miles – really a beautiful morning for running and great to see so many folks out to enjoy this urban treasure. My only negative – the amount of graffiti vandalism. A tremendous amount in just the past couple of weeks. So sad. And we know how to fight it – have known for many years. The secret is to clean it up immediately not in a couple days, or couple of weeks or never. I just don’t understand why government doesn’t get it.
I
Sunday, February 29, 2004
Weekend Running
This part of the Northeast is having a preview of spring and we are having the warmest days since late December. Friday’s trail run was quiet and uneventful. I enjoyed the winter woods which will green up in just a couple of weeks. Other then a couple of soggy spots the going was easy and the trails appear to have been freshly marked so I was more adventurous and took a couple of detours.
Saturday was just perfect. A daytime moon looked down as I started out just past noon. I had new shoes on. I seriously considered a different route because I knew if I took the nature trail thru Haverford I would encounter a lot of mud and didn’t like messing my new shoes. I think it has something to with a poor childhood and the only thing guarantee not to be a hand me down was new shoes which were to be kept perfect as long as possible. But what the hey they will get dirty why not today.
I ran to music (and yes I was careful and mostly on almost traffic less roads.) One of the local NPR stations carries From The Top a program that features young classical talent. If ever you have a rotten week and are convinced the world’s going to hell in a hand basket listen to From The Top. It always makes me feel better about life. Immediately following was the Met’s rendition of Rossini’s L’Italiana in Algeri. It’s bel canto opera – a form popular in the early 19th century where plot was minimal and the singers drove all. Rossini wrote it in three weeks when he was just 21. It sounds like a young man’s opera. Although I was over an hour into the run the overture got me doing an incredibly fast mile. I finished my run to the rousing finish of Act One where all seven principals are on stage singing as bells. Great fun.
Today’s run much more mundane but still satisfying because the warming temps are near perfect. This I could get use to.
Chad Brooks
This part of the Northeast is having a preview of spring and we are having the warmest days since late December. Friday’s trail run was quiet and uneventful. I enjoyed the winter woods which will green up in just a couple of weeks. Other then a couple of soggy spots the going was easy and the trails appear to have been freshly marked so I was more adventurous and took a couple of detours.
Saturday was just perfect. A daytime moon looked down as I started out just past noon. I had new shoes on. I seriously considered a different route because I knew if I took the nature trail thru Haverford I would encounter a lot of mud and didn’t like messing my new shoes. I think it has something to with a poor childhood and the only thing guarantee not to be a hand me down was new shoes which were to be kept perfect as long as possible. But what the hey they will get dirty why not today.
I ran to music (and yes I was careful and mostly on almost traffic less roads.) One of the local NPR stations carries From The Top a program that features young classical talent. If ever you have a rotten week and are convinced the world’s going to hell in a hand basket listen to From The Top. It always makes me feel better about life. Immediately following was the Met’s rendition of Rossini’s L’Italiana in Algeri. It’s bel canto opera – a form popular in the early 19th century where plot was minimal and the singers drove all. Rossini wrote it in three weeks when he was just 21. It sounds like a young man’s opera. Although I was over an hour into the run the overture got me doing an incredibly fast mile. I finished my run to the rousing finish of Act One where all seven principals are on stage singing as bells. Great fun.
Today’s run much more mundane but still satisfying because the warming temps are near perfect. This I could get use to.
Chad Brooks
Saturday, February 21, 2004
Winter Contradictions
Last Saturday was warm (40’s) and Sunday was cold. This time last year we had 43 inches of snow and this
year 13. A colder than average January but lots ofrain. So it has gone this winter.
Friday I went south on the Rocky Run trail. To my surprise the trails still had a lot of icy patches. Winter opens great vistas and perhaps that’s why I saw so many deer. But the weather has been tough on parts of the trail and my first fall of the day was a minor stumble as I tried to get over a small stream where the bridge had partially washed away. An hour into the run I had circled around and needed to cross a larger stream. I have crossed at this spot a half-dozen times without incident but debris forced me further upstream. Still there were plenty of rocks and though the water higher than usual it wasn't moving very hard. I got more then half way across when the only rocks left were under water. No problem if I stepped lightly and quick I would be ok. But it wasn’t to be - I slipped and my right arm and leg went into about 18 inches of very cold water – I must have been a sight as I tried to bounce up without getting my left side wet. I was only about twenty minutes out and it was about 40 so I thought I’d be ok. I decided I was better off without the wet glove so off it came but I did quicken my pace. Minutes later I saw a beautiful red fox in his gorgeous winter coat. But coming down a hill I had my third fall. This was a beaut. It started with me sliding on ice I thought I had avoided by going to the side of the trail. Now what follows sounds like I thought it out slowly and carefully but it happened in a second. I knew I was falling and I knew trying to break with my arms might cause a worst injury so I folded into a fetal position and bounce on my left arm – not bad but then I kept sliding head forward down the hill – what fun. I kind of slipped off the path and was able to get up none the worse forwear. I couldn't believe I had managed it without injury. It was tempting to get cocky but I knew I had been very lucky and it was time to be careful. Fortunately the rest of run was uneventful but a hot shower sure did feel good.
Today was a long run using Kelly, West River, and Forbidden Drives. Early in the run I ran by Nick. We chatted briefly as runners do. How about this wind? Nick says at least you have it at your back. I smiled – this is Kelly Drive the wind is never at your back, somehow it’s always in your face. I ran the new trail that parallels the Schuylkill and goes to Locust Street. It should be very nice when it’s finished. I did my fav run around the Art Museum then back down
to the loop and hit the strongest winds yet. There was so much debris in the wind it actually stung. This winter I feel like I’m in a Willa Cather novel and am one of the pioneers bedeviled by the plains winds. (Forecast for tomorrow: strong north west winds.) I did enjoy this run – yes I was tired and sore – but the winter landscape seems so stark and clear that you are often in the moment – you seemed to notice the bones of the land and somehow seem connected to it – and in the end it seemed much more effortless then an equivalent summer run.
P.S. It's better to wear out then rust.
Last Saturday was warm (40’s) and Sunday was cold. This time last year we had 43 inches of snow and this
year 13. A colder than average January but lots ofrain. So it has gone this winter.
Friday I went south on the Rocky Run trail. To my surprise the trails still had a lot of icy patches. Winter opens great vistas and perhaps that’s why I saw so many deer. But the weather has been tough on parts of the trail and my first fall of the day was a minor stumble as I tried to get over a small stream where the bridge had partially washed away. An hour into the run I had circled around and needed to cross a larger stream. I have crossed at this spot a half-dozen times without incident but debris forced me further upstream. Still there were plenty of rocks and though the water higher than usual it wasn't moving very hard. I got more then half way across when the only rocks left were under water. No problem if I stepped lightly and quick I would be ok. But it wasn’t to be - I slipped and my right arm and leg went into about 18 inches of very cold water – I must have been a sight as I tried to bounce up without getting my left side wet. I was only about twenty minutes out and it was about 40 so I thought I’d be ok. I decided I was better off without the wet glove so off it came but I did quicken my pace. Minutes later I saw a beautiful red fox in his gorgeous winter coat. But coming down a hill I had my third fall. This was a beaut. It started with me sliding on ice I thought I had avoided by going to the side of the trail. Now what follows sounds like I thought it out slowly and carefully but it happened in a second. I knew I was falling and I knew trying to break with my arms might cause a worst injury so I folded into a fetal position and bounce on my left arm – not bad but then I kept sliding head forward down the hill – what fun. I kind of slipped off the path and was able to get up none the worse forwear. I couldn't believe I had managed it without injury. It was tempting to get cocky but I knew I had been very lucky and it was time to be careful. Fortunately the rest of run was uneventful but a hot shower sure did feel good.
Today was a long run using Kelly, West River, and Forbidden Drives. Early in the run I ran by Nick. We chatted briefly as runners do. How about this wind? Nick says at least you have it at your back. I smiled – this is Kelly Drive the wind is never at your back, somehow it’s always in your face. I ran the new trail that parallels the Schuylkill and goes to Locust Street. It should be very nice when it’s finished. I did my fav run around the Art Museum then back down
to the loop and hit the strongest winds yet. There was so much debris in the wind it actually stung. This winter I feel like I’m in a Willa Cather novel and am one of the pioneers bedeviled by the plains winds. (Forecast for tomorrow: strong north west winds.) I did enjoy this run – yes I was tired and sore – but the winter landscape seems so stark and clear that you are often in the moment – you seemed to notice the bones of the land and somehow seem connected to it – and in the end it seemed much more effortless then an equivalent summer run.
P.S. It's better to wear out then rust.
Sunday, February 08, 2004
Mid Winter Running
One week ago I did a trail run thru 3 or 4 inches of snow over ice. The snow had a sand like consistency that prove very difficult to run through. In fact on one steep hill I was reduced to walking when my running efforts took on the cartoony effect of my running and not moving ahead.
This Friday I knew running on trails was out of the question. A cold rain fell through the night but I thought I might get a run on the neighborhood roads. I went out with Max and encountered sidewalks and streets covered with ice. Even four footed Max was having a hard time. Worst the rain actually iced as it hit us. After a quarter mile Max who usually is indifferent to even to the worst weather pulled up and looked at me as if to say “Boss I’m game for most anything but this is not good idea.”
So we headed back home to thaw and dry out.
Saturday was much better. It got up to forty. While there was still a strong west wind it didn’t seem as chilled. The clouds raced across the sky and toward the end of the run it was more cloudy then sunny. The streams I crossed were high but mostly within their banks and great streams of water flowed down the sides of the road as the snow piles gave up their moisture. Today however was much chillier - about 27 when I went out and once again the wind was strong out of the northwest. The sky was bright blue. I actually enjoy this running much more than a hot summer run.
Having an ambitious March schedule with a 10K, half-marathon, marathon gets me out even when the weather is less then cooperative but there is a satisfaction running in difficult conditions and not letting weather stop me.
One week ago I did a trail run thru 3 or 4 inches of snow over ice. The snow had a sand like consistency that prove very difficult to run through. In fact on one steep hill I was reduced to walking when my running efforts took on the cartoony effect of my running and not moving ahead.
This Friday I knew running on trails was out of the question. A cold rain fell through the night but I thought I might get a run on the neighborhood roads. I went out with Max and encountered sidewalks and streets covered with ice. Even four footed Max was having a hard time. Worst the rain actually iced as it hit us. After a quarter mile Max who usually is indifferent to even to the worst weather pulled up and looked at me as if to say “Boss I’m game for most anything but this is not good idea.”
So we headed back home to thaw and dry out.
Saturday was much better. It got up to forty. While there was still a strong west wind it didn’t seem as chilled. The clouds raced across the sky and toward the end of the run it was more cloudy then sunny. The streams I crossed were high but mostly within their banks and great streams of water flowed down the sides of the road as the snow piles gave up their moisture. Today however was much chillier - about 27 when I went out and once again the wind was strong out of the northwest. The sky was bright blue. I actually enjoy this running much more than a hot summer run.
Having an ambitious March schedule with a 10K, half-marathon, marathon gets me out even when the weather is less then cooperative but there is a satisfaction running in difficult conditions and not letting weather stop me.
Friday, January 23, 2004
Trail Run
I have said before that the magic of the trail run is the changing landscape. When I last did the trail much of the run was in the dark, on a wet trail. Today I had light almost from the beginning. The excuse machine was in overdrive. I had skipped last week’s run when I awoke to howling winds and sub zero temps. This morning wasn’t much better and when I walked Max around the block I seriously considered just nipping back to back for an hour. But I steeled myself and drove out to the trail. The jeep’s thermometer said 15 and I knew the northwest winds made the wind chill below zero. I felt the chill initially and seriously considered a shorten run but as the sky lightened and as I warmed with my effort I felt better and better about the run. The trail itself shown white with last Sunday’s snow now encrusted with ice that crunched underfoot. The trees were amazing in their texture and structure; the tallest seeming to hold up the blue vault of the sky. On some of the trail I saw only one other set of human prints (all of the trails appeared heavily use by four legged creatures) but other parts showed heavy traffic though why that should be I don’t know. Just past halfway I climbed up a steep hill. Running along the hill’s ridge, I looked across the valley and saw thru the trees on the far ridge the rising sun. Its rays lit the tops of the trees a gorgeous red golden color. I had to stop to take it all in the beauty it was that stunning. A little further on the sun seemed to suddenly jump up over the tree line a great red gold globe that bathed the tree tops in light. I was very glad I hadn’t wimped out for this turned out to be a favorite run. By trails end my only regret was that it was ending so soon.
On a side note: My wife gave me a hood for Christmas that has proven a godsend in this cold weather. I never feel the cold when wearing it (in fact it’s easy to feel too hot). However, if tightly closed you have no peripheral vision. I wondere how Muslim women who wear the abaya do it. I can’t imagine how it would be never to be outside without that constraint.
I have said before that the magic of the trail run is the changing landscape. When I last did the trail much of the run was in the dark, on a wet trail. Today I had light almost from the beginning. The excuse machine was in overdrive. I had skipped last week’s run when I awoke to howling winds and sub zero temps. This morning wasn’t much better and when I walked Max around the block I seriously considered just nipping back to back for an hour. But I steeled myself and drove out to the trail. The jeep’s thermometer said 15 and I knew the northwest winds made the wind chill below zero. I felt the chill initially and seriously considered a shorten run but as the sky lightened and as I warmed with my effort I felt better and better about the run. The trail itself shown white with last Sunday’s snow now encrusted with ice that crunched underfoot. The trees were amazing in their texture and structure; the tallest seeming to hold up the blue vault of the sky. On some of the trail I saw only one other set of human prints (all of the trails appeared heavily use by four legged creatures) but other parts showed heavy traffic though why that should be I don’t know. Just past halfway I climbed up a steep hill. Running along the hill’s ridge, I looked across the valley and saw thru the trees on the far ridge the rising sun. Its rays lit the tops of the trees a gorgeous red golden color. I had to stop to take it all in the beauty it was that stunning. A little further on the sun seemed to suddenly jump up over the tree line a great red gold globe that bathed the tree tops in light. I was very glad I hadn’t wimped out for this turned out to be a favorite run. By trails end my only regret was that it was ending so soon.
On a side note: My wife gave me a hood for Christmas that has proven a godsend in this cold weather. I never feel the cold when wearing it (in fact it’s easy to feel too hot). However, if tightly closed you have no peripheral vision. I wondere how Muslim women who wear the abaya do it. I can’t imagine how it would be never to be outside without that constraint.
Sunday, January 18, 2004
Icicle 10 Miler – Wilmington, Delaware
Back in December I ran the Reindeer Romp which I never blogged about. The ran began at 3PM on a Sunday. It was cold and very wet. I tried weakly to console a fellow runner that it wasn’t the worst weather I had ever run in. But it was in fact very close to the worst. However, about today’s run there is no ambivalence – the weather was really awful. It had snowed overnight but by daylight it was raining. Well the forecast last night said the rain would end by 9AM just in time for the race. HA!
This is a nice course – almost the same footprint as the Caesar Rodney Half Marathon – but very hilly. The first three miles thru city streets were slush covered. Once in Rockwood Park the road is even snowier (apparently these roads aren’t plowed). The three miles thru the park are all uphill and this was rough running. Did I mention the rain? It never did stop – a cold, steady rain.
Near mile six just as we came out the park the leader past us on his way back. Amazing given the conditions. Nobody, even close to him.
Once out onto Rt. 52 the running is a little easier. It’s up to the MBNA building but not around it as in the CR. Then back – a nice three mile downhill but hard to get traction in the snowy slush. In the park they had a water station – got to admire these volunteers – we’re crazy to run but what about the volunteers who man the intersections and water stops.
Out of the park is a steep uphill – very icy – slow but steady going up. One runner stops but another barrels ahead and quickly regrets it as he loses his footing. Fortunately no fall. Feels good to come out on the flat and sprint down to the finish. Slow race but satisfying. I hadn’t run ten miles since the Philly Marathon. In fact I haven’t been running much at all – partly by designed – partly by holiday pressure – and most recently by a persistent head cold (not to mention the fierce lows of last week that made if foolish to try to run with a cold). I wanted to do a trail run Friday but the howling winds convinced me to sleep in. Now I feel ready for a great spring.
Back in December I ran the Reindeer Romp which I never blogged about. The ran began at 3PM on a Sunday. It was cold and very wet. I tried weakly to console a fellow runner that it wasn’t the worst weather I had ever run in. But it was in fact very close to the worst. However, about today’s run there is no ambivalence – the weather was really awful. It had snowed overnight but by daylight it was raining. Well the forecast last night said the rain would end by 9AM just in time for the race. HA!
This is a nice course – almost the same footprint as the Caesar Rodney Half Marathon – but very hilly. The first three miles thru city streets were slush covered. Once in Rockwood Park the road is even snowier (apparently these roads aren’t plowed). The three miles thru the park are all uphill and this was rough running. Did I mention the rain? It never did stop – a cold, steady rain.
Near mile six just as we came out the park the leader past us on his way back. Amazing given the conditions. Nobody, even close to him.
Once out onto Rt. 52 the running is a little easier. It’s up to the MBNA building but not around it as in the CR. Then back – a nice three mile downhill but hard to get traction in the snowy slush. In the park they had a water station – got to admire these volunteers – we’re crazy to run but what about the volunteers who man the intersections and water stops.
Out of the park is a steep uphill – very icy – slow but steady going up. One runner stops but another barrels ahead and quickly regrets it as he loses his footing. Fortunately no fall. Feels good to come out on the flat and sprint down to the finish. Slow race but satisfying. I hadn’t run ten miles since the Philly Marathon. In fact I haven’t been running much at all – partly by designed – partly by holiday pressure – and most recently by a persistent head cold (not to mention the fierce lows of last week that made if foolish to try to run with a cold). I wanted to do a trail run Friday but the howling winds convinced me to sleep in. Now I feel ready for a great spring.
Friday, December 05, 2003
Trail Run First Snow
I was looking forward to my first trail run in the snow. Just two week ago I was running the marathon in shorts and singlet. The snow had just started at 5 AM when I walked Max. The intensity picked up as I drove out to work and there was a nice snow cover when I started out on the path.
Winter woods have a special beauty. The disappearance of vegetation opens vistas and gives new perspectives on the landscape. It is very quiet in woods and even my own footfalls are muffled.
I realize that I am not the only one making use of the trail; animal tracks show a busy community that crosses the path, and often goes straight along it for some distance. I don’t recognize all the tracks but deer is plain and rabbits are distinct. Also some type of predator, probably fox. One rabbit went along quite deliberately, then did a 360 marking out a clear oval before continue on. What made him circle?
For a time I am following a deer and the tracks are quite fresh, suddenly there she is taking us both by surprise. I follow her flight into the woods but she quickly disappears. I am always amazed by that ability to simply vanish. How does so large an animal hide in these seemingly empty woods?
I have never encounter anyone in this section of the woods, but tracks leading from the Arboretum let me know that someone else has early been for a hike. I make a great circle before I recross my own tracks on my way back. They are already disappearing under a cover a snow. Shortly there will be no evidence I had come this way.
There’s the momentary jar as I come out to the Rt 352 and the heavy morning traffic. I wish I could have stayed out longer in the white stillness of those woods. I may not feel so friendly toward the snow later today as I put up with traffic and shoveling but right now it just seems beautiful.
I was looking forward to my first trail run in the snow. Just two week ago I was running the marathon in shorts and singlet. The snow had just started at 5 AM when I walked Max. The intensity picked up as I drove out to work and there was a nice snow cover when I started out on the path.
Winter woods have a special beauty. The disappearance of vegetation opens vistas and gives new perspectives on the landscape. It is very quiet in woods and even my own footfalls are muffled.
I realize that I am not the only one making use of the trail; animal tracks show a busy community that crosses the path, and often goes straight along it for some distance. I don’t recognize all the tracks but deer is plain and rabbits are distinct. Also some type of predator, probably fox. One rabbit went along quite deliberately, then did a 360 marking out a clear oval before continue on. What made him circle?
For a time I am following a deer and the tracks are quite fresh, suddenly there she is taking us both by surprise. I follow her flight into the woods but she quickly disappears. I am always amazed by that ability to simply vanish. How does so large an animal hide in these seemingly empty woods?
I have never encounter anyone in this section of the woods, but tracks leading from the Arboretum let me know that someone else has early been for a hike. I make a great circle before I recross my own tracks on my way back. They are already disappearing under a cover a snow. Shortly there will be no evidence I had come this way.
There’s the momentary jar as I come out to the Rt 352 and the heavy morning traffic. I wish I could have stayed out longer in the white stillness of those woods. I may not feel so friendly toward the snow later today as I put up with traffic and shoveling but right now it just seems beautiful.
Monday, November 24, 2003
Philadelphia Marathon
Sometime last week the maples finally caught up and changed color. Almost as if a switch was thrown. One day green and seemingly the next golden. Unfortunately the wind and rain of recent weeks had stripped quite a few of the leaves but they still are quite beautiful. Sunday was bright but some clouds soften the sun and the day while warm for November didn't get quite as warm as predicted. Still I was to run a great deal of the race soaking wet. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
When I came into Mantua just across the river from the Art Museum I went to my usually parking space to find all the places taken - I ended much further then ever before and thought it must be because of so many more runners. I was surprised to see that there were only 5317 runners on the official finishers list (about the same as last year) especially since the weather was so nice. (Although this is the most spectators I have ever seen for this race - still sparse by many races' standards it was a notable increase over last year.)
Speaking to a runner before the race I asked if he was from Philadelphia. No but he has visited many times, as an immigrant he wants his children to appreciate liberty and this country's history. I was humbled by his enthusiastic description of the new constitution center since despite living nearby I still haven't got there.
Nice start to the race. The new course leaves out the parkway loop and takes you onto Arch (in the race packet Citizens Bank had included green gloves - someone had toss them away and a dog was holding one in his mouth. It made everyone laugh.)Then on down to Columbus Blvd. That portion is not pretty but gives a nice flat straight away.
Then it's urban running - South Street, Chestnut, 34th Street past the zoo and into Fairmount Park. My slowest mile is the hill up to Memorial Hall and my fastest is the mile right after.
I can gauge my Philly Marathon on how well the next miles go. If I still feel strong at the Art Museum (about mile 14) it will be a good race. Another good check point is mile 17 at Falls Bridge. On the out of Kelly Drive you have the chance to see the faster runners coming in. The lead runner who will set a course record is way in front of all others. The women's race is much more competitive. And in fact the woman I see second and urge on will past in last quarter miles and win. I have never much enjoy the mile or so into Manayunk but once there it's fun to see the other runners who have made the loop and are on their way back.
I'm always glad to get over the overpass that leads back to Kelly Drive. And then it’s downhill until boathouse row. I am spent but am able to maintain a slow steady pace. I keep checking the time. Sub 4 is possible but only just and only if I don't slow. I'm in danger of cramping and plenty of runners are walking or trying to stretch and I remember last year's disastrous run. But the succeed tablets are working. I don't dare stop. I skip the last water stop. Now it's push - keep steady and get ready for that last .2 and the small uphill to the finish. One final nice surprise - friends call my name - they are spectating with their new baby. Cute baby I call out.
And once again I'm approaching a finish as the clock ticks toward 4 hrs. But I will make it. 3:59:13 Clock. 3:57:13 Chip.
Sometime last week the maples finally caught up and changed color. Almost as if a switch was thrown. One day green and seemingly the next golden. Unfortunately the wind and rain of recent weeks had stripped quite a few of the leaves but they still are quite beautiful. Sunday was bright but some clouds soften the sun and the day while warm for November didn't get quite as warm as predicted. Still I was to run a great deal of the race soaking wet. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
When I came into Mantua just across the river from the Art Museum I went to my usually parking space to find all the places taken - I ended much further then ever before and thought it must be because of so many more runners. I was surprised to see that there were only 5317 runners on the official finishers list (about the same as last year) especially since the weather was so nice. (Although this is the most spectators I have ever seen for this race - still sparse by many races' standards it was a notable increase over last year.)
Speaking to a runner before the race I asked if he was from Philadelphia. No but he has visited many times, as an immigrant he wants his children to appreciate liberty and this country's history. I was humbled by his enthusiastic description of the new constitution center since despite living nearby I still haven't got there.
Nice start to the race. The new course leaves out the parkway loop and takes you onto Arch (in the race packet Citizens Bank had included green gloves - someone had toss them away and a dog was holding one in his mouth. It made everyone laugh.)Then on down to Columbus Blvd. That portion is not pretty but gives a nice flat straight away.
Then it's urban running - South Street, Chestnut, 34th Street past the zoo and into Fairmount Park. My slowest mile is the hill up to Memorial Hall and my fastest is the mile right after.
I can gauge my Philly Marathon on how well the next miles go. If I still feel strong at the Art Museum (about mile 14) it will be a good race. Another good check point is mile 17 at Falls Bridge. On the out of Kelly Drive you have the chance to see the faster runners coming in. The lead runner who will set a course record is way in front of all others. The women's race is much more competitive. And in fact the woman I see second and urge on will past in last quarter miles and win. I have never much enjoy the mile or so into Manayunk but once there it's fun to see the other runners who have made the loop and are on their way back.
I'm always glad to get over the overpass that leads back to Kelly Drive. And then it’s downhill until boathouse row. I am spent but am able to maintain a slow steady pace. I keep checking the time. Sub 4 is possible but only just and only if I don't slow. I'm in danger of cramping and plenty of runners are walking or trying to stretch and I remember last year's disastrous run. But the succeed tablets are working. I don't dare stop. I skip the last water stop. Now it's push - keep steady and get ready for that last .2 and the small uphill to the finish. One final nice surprise - friends call my name - they are spectating with their new baby. Cute baby I call out.
And once again I'm approaching a finish as the clock ticks toward 4 hrs. But I will make it. 3:59:13 Clock. 3:57:13 Chip.
Saturday, November 15, 2003
Fall Running
Yesterday was trail day. I headed south this day. For those of you familiar with mid Atlantic east coast institutions this is the trail that goes behind Wawa’s headquarters. This part of the trail is maintained by Middletown as part of their open space project.
I’m a big fan of headphones and usually run with them, but on my trail runs I forgo so as not to miss any of nature’s sounds.
The winds had been blowing for more than thirty hours and were still quite strong. You would hear a low roar gradually increasing until all the trees were swaying and rattling and then it would be gone and quiet again. The woods now are mostly bare and probably for that reason I saw quite a few deer. The path was only blocked in one place but it doozy – a large tree had taken down others and created quite a tangle to get thru. Other than that fall running is actually easier since the vegetation has died back (with the one exception the leaves tend to cover the wet spots and you can find yourself in deep mud without warning).
The trees are quite beautiful in their summer fullness but equally if not more so in their late fall barrenness as the branches frame the sky and you get long views into the woods.
The path goes out Darlington Road near which a memorial has been placed on a bench to remember a son who “died after battling bi-polar disease”. It is a beautiful pleasant spot – I hope it brings peace to the family and all who use it.
Today on a calm, bright morning I ran, on my usual route past Merion golf course where they are rebuilding greens – an interesting process. One of my favorite things about fall trees is seeing the squirrel nests which despite the winds seem quite secure in their high perches. The bright, clear weather makes for great running.
Next Sunday the marathon. Hope the weather stays cool.
Yesterday was trail day. I headed south this day. For those of you familiar with mid Atlantic east coast institutions this is the trail that goes behind Wawa’s headquarters. This part of the trail is maintained by Middletown as part of their open space project.
I’m a big fan of headphones and usually run with them, but on my trail runs I forgo so as not to miss any of nature’s sounds.
The winds had been blowing for more than thirty hours and were still quite strong. You would hear a low roar gradually increasing until all the trees were swaying and rattling and then it would be gone and quiet again. The woods now are mostly bare and probably for that reason I saw quite a few deer. The path was only blocked in one place but it doozy – a large tree had taken down others and created quite a tangle to get thru. Other than that fall running is actually easier since the vegetation has died back (with the one exception the leaves tend to cover the wet spots and you can find yourself in deep mud without warning).
The trees are quite beautiful in their summer fullness but equally if not more so in their late fall barrenness as the branches frame the sky and you get long views into the woods.
The path goes out Darlington Road near which a memorial has been placed on a bench to remember a son who “died after battling bi-polar disease”. It is a beautiful pleasant spot – I hope it brings peace to the family and all who use it.
Today on a calm, bright morning I ran, on my usual route past Merion golf course where they are rebuilding greens – an interesting process. One of my favorite things about fall trees is seeing the squirrel nests which despite the winds seem quite secure in their high perches. The bright, clear weather makes for great running.
Next Sunday the marathon. Hope the weather stays cool.
Sunday, November 09, 2003
Penn Wynne 5K
Four weeks, four races: marathon, 25K, 10K, 5K. I didn't plan it but it turned out to be an interesting pattern and fun to run each week a little faster. Maybe this racing has become an obsession. Well at least each was a decrease in distant. Yesterday’s speed was less then I expected since I felt strong and relaxed and the weather was crisp, but all that running has undoubtedly taken its toll and the course is very hilly. The 5K benefits a small local library and is nicely put together. It is thru very nice suburban streets; part of the last mile (and the only flat portion) is along Powdermill Drive which parallels Karakung Creek. The opposite side of the creek is Karakung Drive which is a major part of the Haverford Day 5K course.
I love running in the fall. It’s been unusually warm and very wet but yesterday and today chilly weather finally arrived. Today I ran an early morning run under a bright blue dome of sky with great pleasure. I stopped briefly to watch workman installing a cobblestone drive. I just had my drive redone with concrete to look like cobblestone but it was nice seeing craftsmen doing the real thing. When I commiserated about working in the cold, one fellow asked aren’t you cold; I completely forgot about how strange it seemed to be standing there in shorts and a t-shirt (although I was wearing gloves). Many trees especially the maples are still green. The wood which last year reminded me of Lothlorian’s golden trees is, this year, still green. Later on the same the nature trail (at Haverford College) I saw a fox, an unusual suburban encounter. A great weekend of joyful running. Three more races this year: Philadelphia Marathon, Jingle Bell Run, and Reindeer Romp. Then I will take a month off. Well unless something catches my eye.
Four weeks, four races: marathon, 25K, 10K, 5K. I didn't plan it but it turned out to be an interesting pattern and fun to run each week a little faster. Maybe this racing has become an obsession. Well at least each was a decrease in distant. Yesterday’s speed was less then I expected since I felt strong and relaxed and the weather was crisp, but all that running has undoubtedly taken its toll and the course is very hilly. The 5K benefits a small local library and is nicely put together. It is thru very nice suburban streets; part of the last mile (and the only flat portion) is along Powdermill Drive which parallels Karakung Creek. The opposite side of the creek is Karakung Drive which is a major part of the Haverford Day 5K course.
I love running in the fall. It’s been unusually warm and very wet but yesterday and today chilly weather finally arrived. Today I ran an early morning run under a bright blue dome of sky with great pleasure. I stopped briefly to watch workman installing a cobblestone drive. I just had my drive redone with concrete to look like cobblestone but it was nice seeing craftsmen doing the real thing. When I commiserated about working in the cold, one fellow asked aren’t you cold; I completely forgot about how strange it seemed to be standing there in shorts and a t-shirt (although I was wearing gloves). Many trees especially the maples are still green. The wood which last year reminded me of Lothlorian’s golden trees is, this year, still green. Later on the same the nature trail (at Haverford College) I saw a fox, an unusual suburban encounter. A great weekend of joyful running. Three more races this year: Philadelphia Marathon, Jingle Bell Run, and Reindeer Romp. Then I will take a month off. Well unless something catches my eye.
Sunday, November 02, 2003
Ben Franklin Bridge Challenge
I believe this race has gone thru a couple of renditions. Currently, it benefits the Larc School which provides services for children and young adults with multiple disabilities. The course is 10K.
The first three miles are from the Jersey side of the bridge to Philly and back. That means two tough hills in those first miles, but great views. The last three miles go thru Camden. For those of you not familiar with the east coast, Camden is a rather depressed community that has been trying to come back by taking advantage of the water front. The race makes use of Rutgers Camden campus. The course takes you by the minor league baseball field (Campbell Field – Campbell Soup was a big presence in Camden.) Here's another view of the field, and also here. Next is the newly renovated RCA building (Nipper after their mascot and now the Victor Building.
Past The Tweeter Center which is a concert venue. Down battleship way and past the USS New Jersey (a retired battleship) . Here's a nice view of the battleship.
You only see the back of the New Jersey Aquarium, but here's a nice view of the path you're on.
You end up back at the base of the Ben Franklin Bridge.
The run made me very nostalgic for the old Zoo run which was a 10K that went from the aquarium to the Philly Zoo.
After my race was finished I slowly ran back out about ¾ mile and cheered the runners still coming in.
If you run a race for the goomies this is the race for you. I have never seen so much food on display after a run. The choices were yogurt, cereal, snack foods, pastries not to mention the old standby bys bananas and bagels.
The course was beautiful (in an urban way) well marshaled and lots of volunteers. Minor complaint is water was in plastic (paper is always better). But I think the charity, the distance and the views make this a very nice race. I have a feeling this race will grow.
Congratulations to the organizers.
I believe this race has gone thru a couple of renditions. Currently, it benefits the Larc School which provides services for children and young adults with multiple disabilities. The course is 10K.
The first three miles are from the Jersey side of the bridge to Philly and back. That means two tough hills in those first miles, but great views. The last three miles go thru Camden. For those of you not familiar with the east coast, Camden is a rather depressed community that has been trying to come back by taking advantage of the water front. The race makes use of Rutgers Camden campus. The course takes you by the minor league baseball field (Campbell Field – Campbell Soup was a big presence in Camden.) Here's another view of the field, and also here. Next is the newly renovated RCA building (Nipper after their mascot and now the Victor Building.
Past The Tweeter Center which is a concert venue. Down battleship way and past the USS New Jersey (a retired battleship) . Here's a nice view of the battleship.
You only see the back of the New Jersey Aquarium, but here's a nice view of the path you're on.
You end up back at the base of the Ben Franklin Bridge.
The run made me very nostalgic for the old Zoo run which was a 10K that went from the aquarium to the Philly Zoo.
After my race was finished I slowly ran back out about ¾ mile and cheered the runners still coming in.
If you run a race for the goomies this is the race for you. I have never seen so much food on display after a run. The choices were yogurt, cereal, snack foods, pastries not to mention the old standby bys bananas and bagels.
The course was beautiful (in an urban way) well marshaled and lots of volunteers. Minor complaint is water was in plastic (paper is always better). But I think the charity, the distance and the views make this a very nice race. I have a feeling this race will grow.
Congratulations to the organizers.
Friday, October 24, 2003
Mt. Desert Island Marathon
Advertised as the most beautiful marathon in the country it almost lives up to the hype. I had a great weekend and my longest vacation in many years. I left home last Wednesday (October 15th) and traveled as far as Danvers, Massachusetts. My wife and I had always wanted to visit the Peabody-Essex Museum in Salem. I never thought to associate Salem, site of the infamous witch trials in the 17th Century, with Halloween and little did I know the Halloween crunch had already begun. It was strange to see all the shops dedicated to witchcraft (are witches part of the local ministerium?).
The wind followed me to Salem. After a very enjoyable visit to the Museum I talked my wife into having dinner in Salem rather than returning to Danvers. During that time a wind storm blew thru and knocked down trees and a light pole leading to widespread detours.
The trip to Winterport was uneventful (but long - Maine is a big state!). Saturday we checked out Bar Harbor and I got my number and chip; later we had a pasta dinner at the local high school where I got a beach rock (when the race director gave them out I heard some surprised remarks – will during the marathon I saw a sign that absolutely forbade removal of beach rocks) for being the only Pennsylvania resident at the dinner.
Sunday was overcast and chilly – just my kind of weather. As the name indicates the race takes place on Mt. Desert, the largest island off the Maine coast. Race began right on time. You start in Bar Harbor and head out to Arcadia where you run through private and park land for the first 10K. The next six miles is near the coast with great vistas. I would describe the first 14 miles as pretty but not spectacular but mile fifteen is wow! as you run between the sea (Somes Sound) and the rocks of Maine (I learned later that part of Arcadia was called Philadelphia on the rocks because of all the main liners who had homes there). I was told Somes Sound is the only true fjord in North America but this site disagrees and says it is fjord like. Still if you go to the link you get a feel for how spectacular it is. As expected it is a hilly race but most are not extremely steep and I found them manageable (although they do just keep coming).
The last six miles are the least scenic and you are on a busy highway. There is a long hill that lasts thru mile 25. I kept asking how can it be uphill to a harbor, but the pay off is a sharp downhill thru to the finish at Soutwest Harbor. Around mile 20 I realized I had a chance to go under 4 hours if I just pushed a little. I was quite proud of my finish and did a 3:59:15. I originally thought a 4:15 effort would great so this was quite a surprise.
Spectators are as few in any marathon I’ve done but those who did view are very enthusiastic and cheered for everyone. It’s quite easy for spectators to move forward through the course and I got use to seeing some spectators over and over. I think Mainers must be honest to a fault – at one of the water stops I jokingly said this is the last hill right. A fellow looking very concerned said well sorry no it’s not. It was kind of sweet and made me laugh. At one water stop they must have had a list of runners because they cheered me by name and home state and I don’t think that has every happen to me before.
All the volunteers were great and must have practiced their water hand offs because they did a great job. As sometimes happens in small marathons there were stretches where there was no one near me so I am especially pleased my pacing stayed so even – there was only one mile where I lost focus and I made it up over the next two miles.
I ran past and spoke briefly to a runner who had run a marathon in every state three times.
Well organized and presented marathon that I think will quickly reached it’s maximum attendance of 1000.
Advertised as the most beautiful marathon in the country it almost lives up to the hype. I had a great weekend and my longest vacation in many years. I left home last Wednesday (October 15th) and traveled as far as Danvers, Massachusetts. My wife and I had always wanted to visit the Peabody-Essex Museum in Salem. I never thought to associate Salem, site of the infamous witch trials in the 17th Century, with Halloween and little did I know the Halloween crunch had already begun. It was strange to see all the shops dedicated to witchcraft (are witches part of the local ministerium?).
The wind followed me to Salem. After a very enjoyable visit to the Museum I talked my wife into having dinner in Salem rather than returning to Danvers. During that time a wind storm blew thru and knocked down trees and a light pole leading to widespread detours.
The trip to Winterport was uneventful (but long - Maine is a big state!). Saturday we checked out Bar Harbor and I got my number and chip; later we had a pasta dinner at the local high school where I got a beach rock (when the race director gave them out I heard some surprised remarks – will during the marathon I saw a sign that absolutely forbade removal of beach rocks) for being the only Pennsylvania resident at the dinner.
Sunday was overcast and chilly – just my kind of weather. As the name indicates the race takes place on Mt. Desert, the largest island off the Maine coast. Race began right on time. You start in Bar Harbor and head out to Arcadia where you run through private and park land for the first 10K. The next six miles is near the coast with great vistas. I would describe the first 14 miles as pretty but not spectacular but mile fifteen is wow! as you run between the sea (Somes Sound) and the rocks of Maine (I learned later that part of Arcadia was called Philadelphia on the rocks because of all the main liners who had homes there). I was told Somes Sound is the only true fjord in North America but this site disagrees and says it is fjord like. Still if you go to the link you get a feel for how spectacular it is. As expected it is a hilly race but most are not extremely steep and I found them manageable (although they do just keep coming).
The last six miles are the least scenic and you are on a busy highway. There is a long hill that lasts thru mile 25. I kept asking how can it be uphill to a harbor, but the pay off is a sharp downhill thru to the finish at Soutwest Harbor. Around mile 20 I realized I had a chance to go under 4 hours if I just pushed a little. I was quite proud of my finish and did a 3:59:15. I originally thought a 4:15 effort would great so this was quite a surprise.
Spectators are as few in any marathon I’ve done but those who did view are very enthusiastic and cheered for everyone. It’s quite easy for spectators to move forward through the course and I got use to seeing some spectators over and over. I think Mainers must be honest to a fault – at one of the water stops I jokingly said this is the last hill right. A fellow looking very concerned said well sorry no it’s not. It was kind of sweet and made me laugh. At one water stop they must have had a list of runners because they cheered me by name and home state and I don’t think that has every happen to me before.
All the volunteers were great and must have practiced their water hand offs because they did a great job. As sometimes happens in small marathons there were stretches where there was no one near me so I am especially pleased my pacing stayed so even – there was only one mile where I lost focus and I made it up over the next two miles.
I ran past and spoke briefly to a runner who had run a marathon in every state three times.
Well organized and presented marathon that I think will quickly reached it’s maximum attendance of 1000.
Friday, October 10, 2003
Haverford Township Day
This community event began 9 years ago. For years the first Saturday in October was the day that the township fire companies opened Fire Prevention Week activities.
The story I’ve been told is the Phil DiNenno who was with the Haverford Township Civic Counsel approached the Township Manager and asked about extending the parade. To be honest I really have no memory of those first years since I was only peripherally involved. But I believe that the form of the first event was very much as it continues today.
Six years ago I did add my own twist when I got my friend Jim Sims to direct a 5K race as part of the activities.
Last year and this year I acted as the chair of a very informal group of volunteers who really do all the work in pulling the day together.
Each person brings something to the mix whether crafts, flea market, amusements, food sales or entertainment. It’s been great to work with such a dedicated group who devote so many hours to pulling this event together.
Next year for the tenth I’m hoping that the Township will move toward a more professional approach. The infusion of volunteer spirit is important but I think it’s come time to have some guidelines on how things are done,
This community event began 9 years ago. For years the first Saturday in October was the day that the township fire companies opened Fire Prevention Week activities.
The story I’ve been told is the Phil DiNenno who was with the Haverford Township Civic Counsel approached the Township Manager and asked about extending the parade. To be honest I really have no memory of those first years since I was only peripherally involved. But I believe that the form of the first event was very much as it continues today.
Six years ago I did add my own twist when I got my friend Jim Sims to direct a 5K race as part of the activities.
Last year and this year I acted as the chair of a very informal group of volunteers who really do all the work in pulling the day together.
Each person brings something to the mix whether crafts, flea market, amusements, food sales or entertainment. It’s been great to work with such a dedicated group who devote so many hours to pulling this event together.
Next year for the tenth I’m hoping that the Township will move toward a more professional approach. The infusion of volunteer spirit is important but I think it’s come time to have some guidelines on how things are done,
Tuesday, September 23, 2003
Philadelphia Distance Run
This is one of the most popular races in Philadelphia. I think it should be a destination run with these qualifications: there is no crowd support and the weather can be very warm (even yesterday was a tad humid and warm).
It is both an interesting and beautiful course. You start on Market Street past the new Constitution Center and can see Independence Hall and though most runners won’t notice you past the shop where Ben Franklin did business. Up over Penn’s landing and on to Walnut where you will get another view of Independence Hall and past Washington Square.
Then cityscape for a mile or so before turning toward the Ben Franklin Parkway. There can’t be many more beautiful venues than the run up the Parkway around Logan Circle (which is really one of the original town squares). The Art Museum looms in its Grecian glory.
From there you turn onto West River Drive where you get a great view of Boathouse Row It mostly shaded and green if you look close you may even spot the lead runners miles ahead and across the river on Kelly Drive.
I slowed a little on the hill approaching Falls Bridge a beautiful iron bridge takes you over the Schuylkill to Kelly Drive. In both the Distance Run and the Philly Marathon this is the horse to the barn time. You can smell the finish. I’m not sure if it’s an advantage or a disadvantage but those of us who run Kelly Drive can now count down the miles practically by quarters to Boathouse Row. Go by Hunting Park Tunnel and the Ghost Tunnel five miles, Jack Kelly rowing three miles, General Grant mile and half, Remington’s cowboy and the stone tunnel, ¾ mile, Boathouse Row, then back in front of the art museum. And a push down the parkway to Logan Circle.
A comfortable run for me. Goal 8:30 miles. Average 8:34. But not good pacing - first three miles much too fast, mile seven because of a water stop and hill too slow, last three slow but steady.
This is one of the most popular races in Philadelphia. I think it should be a destination run with these qualifications: there is no crowd support and the weather can be very warm (even yesterday was a tad humid and warm).
It is both an interesting and beautiful course. You start on Market Street past the new Constitution Center and can see Independence Hall and though most runners won’t notice you past the shop where Ben Franklin did business. Up over Penn’s landing and on to Walnut where you will get another view of Independence Hall and past Washington Square.
Then cityscape for a mile or so before turning toward the Ben Franklin Parkway. There can’t be many more beautiful venues than the run up the Parkway around Logan Circle (which is really one of the original town squares). The Art Museum looms in its Grecian glory.
From there you turn onto West River Drive where you get a great view of Boathouse Row It mostly shaded and green if you look close you may even spot the lead runners miles ahead and across the river on Kelly Drive.
I slowed a little on the hill approaching Falls Bridge a beautiful iron bridge takes you over the Schuylkill to Kelly Drive. In both the Distance Run and the Philly Marathon this is the horse to the barn time. You can smell the finish. I’m not sure if it’s an advantage or a disadvantage but those of us who run Kelly Drive can now count down the miles practically by quarters to Boathouse Row. Go by Hunting Park Tunnel and the Ghost Tunnel five miles, Jack Kelly rowing three miles, General Grant mile and half, Remington’s cowboy and the stone tunnel, ¾ mile, Boathouse Row, then back in front of the art museum. And a push down the parkway to Logan Circle.
A comfortable run for me. Goal 8:30 miles. Average 8:34. But not good pacing - first three miles much too fast, mile seven because of a water stop and hill too slow, last three slow but steady.
In A Flash
Got up this morning to a light rain, gusty winds; walked the dog; did my morning routine and was just in the process of shaving when my wife said “These winds are worse then the hurricane” with that the lights went off. Still not aware of just how bad it was. Then I noticed that pieces of trees were everywhere. In the cemetery behind my house large obelisks were knocked off their pedestals. A fire engine came down the street (later I learned a trees had caught fire from fallen wires). As I drove down my street I saw tree after tree down. And when I entered the business district a short distance away I knew we had been hit with something dramatic. The “experts” are still debating whether it was wind shear or a tornado, but it doesn’t matter the damage is done. A huge old tree fell into a nearby church shattering the stain glass window. Cars were crushed under heavy trees. My daughter who lives nearby said not a street in her neighborhood didn’t have a tree down. A large tree just missed her car. The property losses are huge but fortunately no one was seriously hurt.
Of course there were no traffic lights and power which, strangely, briefly went back on is off again. Incredibly as often happens in these wind storms the damage is very localized. Go a mile and everything is normal. The local all news radio was still saying light rain with clearing by noon.
I have seen this kind of devastation on TV and I remember the damage from Floyd but I never experienced this sudden, terrific damage so close up. (This is suburban Philadelphia not Kansas.) My neighborhood will be different for a very long time. I’ve never seen so many large trees down. Some of the smaller ones were just snapped in two. Many streets are closed but crews are already hard at work.
Got up this morning to a light rain, gusty winds; walked the dog; did my morning routine and was just in the process of shaving when my wife said “These winds are worse then the hurricane” with that the lights went off. Still not aware of just how bad it was. Then I noticed that pieces of trees were everywhere. In the cemetery behind my house large obelisks were knocked off their pedestals. A fire engine came down the street (later I learned a trees had caught fire from fallen wires). As I drove down my street I saw tree after tree down. And when I entered the business district a short distance away I knew we had been hit with something dramatic. The “experts” are still debating whether it was wind shear or a tornado, but it doesn’t matter the damage is done. A huge old tree fell into a nearby church shattering the stain glass window. Cars were crushed under heavy trees. My daughter who lives nearby said not a street in her neighborhood didn’t have a tree down. A large tree just missed her car. The property losses are huge but fortunately no one was seriously hurt.
Of course there were no traffic lights and power which, strangely, briefly went back on is off again. Incredibly as often happens in these wind storms the damage is very localized. Go a mile and everything is normal. The local all news radio was still saying light rain with clearing by noon.
I have seen this kind of devastation on TV and I remember the damage from Floyd but I never experienced this sudden, terrific damage so close up. (This is suburban Philadelphia not Kansas.) My neighborhood will be different for a very long time. I’ve never seen so many large trees down. Some of the smaller ones were just snapped in two. Many streets are closed but crews are already hard at work.
Thursday, September 18, 2003
David Blaine
I'm curious if any one on DRM has been following the David Blaine furor. For those who don't know Blaine is a talented magician. His close up slight of hand is absolutely amazing. For the past couple of years he has been doing "stunts" like being sealed in a block of ice. His latest stunt is being sealed in a glass box over the Thames where he will stay 44 days without food (but will have water). Now remember he is an illusionist so I wonder. But last year (I think) he put out a very strange book and I wouldn't be surprise if he actually was doing it. He is very big on acts of will.
The unusual thing is this stunt has had a very strange affect on the British. They have been taunting him, hitting the case with eggs and golf balls. The other day someone tried to cut off his water supply. Now again since this is a stunt those acts may be staged for publicity. But Blaine has been savagely attack by both left and right; the kindest critics have said he's an idiot and even that he causing anti-Americanism (or is a victim of it).
Now I agree the stunt is pointless but what the heck -who's he hurting. It may be because I regularly engage in an activity (running in general and marathoning in particular) that many if not most see as pointless and worse (I remember the screams directed at us during the Baltimore Marathon by those caught in traffic) (not to mention that I correspond with even nuttier people who do ultras), but I kinda admire the gustiness of pulling this off. There is something sublime in the essence of this in your face, pointless, look at me, arrogance of this stunt.
I’d be interested in how other runners look at this.
I'm curious if any one on DRM has been following the David Blaine furor. For those who don't know Blaine is a talented magician. His close up slight of hand is absolutely amazing. For the past couple of years he has been doing "stunts" like being sealed in a block of ice. His latest stunt is being sealed in a glass box over the Thames where he will stay 44 days without food (but will have water). Now remember he is an illusionist so I wonder. But last year (I think) he put out a very strange book and I wouldn't be surprise if he actually was doing it. He is very big on acts of will.
The unusual thing is this stunt has had a very strange affect on the British. They have been taunting him, hitting the case with eggs and golf balls. The other day someone tried to cut off his water supply. Now again since this is a stunt those acts may be staged for publicity. But Blaine has been savagely attack by both left and right; the kindest critics have said he's an idiot and even that he causing anti-Americanism (or is a victim of it).
Now I agree the stunt is pointless but what the heck -who's he hurting. It may be because I regularly engage in an activity (running in general and marathoning in particular) that many if not most see as pointless and worse (I remember the screams directed at us during the Baltimore Marathon by those caught in traffic) (not to mention that I correspond with even nuttier people who do ultras), but I kinda admire the gustiness of pulling this off. There is something sublime in the essence of this in your face, pointless, look at me, arrogance of this stunt.
I’d be interested in how other runners look at this.
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