Runnin' them Rockies

2008-04-24T13:47:00.000-07:00

I've decided to buy another heart rate monitor. My first one served me well. It was an Polar FS1 watch. Basic stuff. I think I'm going to go for the ramped up version: the Polar F6 for $100 bucks!

2007-02-04T06:59:00.000-08:00

From this weekend at A-Basin: Thanks Kiki!

Wolf Creek: Step Bowl.jpg

2006-09-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

Wolf Creek: Step Bowl.jpg
Originally uploaded by CSCUSA.

2006-09-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

Recently, someone I work with was scoffing at the the fact that his wife would do a part of the Outward Bound Relay. I found it amusing, but it also got me thinking. Those who haven't gotten the chance to step out into the energy of a race miss the whole point.

"Why would anyone go out, run all that way, for no other reason than to run it?"

Simple. But I want to compare it to the droves of HOG clubs - that's Harley Owner's Group - who get up from their couches, and rev the ever-so-branded rumble of their engines across towns, states and countrys. They do it for good reasons. To meet people who love the sport. To meet people they actually like. To try, to question the decision to go, then overcome it, and stay on track - to finally hit the milestone that kept them at it - well, that's just an experience that you all had better try. It's really kind of a "high".

But that's not to make the "runner's high" so cliche. Now that's something completely different. But of course, all part of it. Anyhow, the next time you spend part of your weekend shopping, surfing the internet or hell, even working, try getting out to one of the 1000s of races in Colorado going on right now, even some of them with teams - like my friend's wife completed this weekend - and run 'em.

One of my favorites is the California to Rhode Island Coast-to-Coast Run that's going on right now. The team is now in Steamboat Springs, and this coming Wednesday, they'll be in Denver!

2006-08-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

The next time you're thinking of skipping a run when it's hot, just remember these things:

Gulp the water/Gatorade beforehand - remember the feeling of being parched?
Carry a hydration container if you're headed out for more than an hour.
Eat a Gel - this is going to be key energy that keeps you out.
Slap on some 'screen - 'specially if you're at altitude.
Name a goal - any goal: 40 minutes, 5 miles, to the park and back.

Oh, and by the way. October 15th isn't far away. That's the Denver Marathon if you forgot! We've got a 4-person team planned and we're gettin' ready. Then, of course, there's Rim Rock Run.

2006-07-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

5 little tips for getting out even when it's HOT or raining:

Run with a group. Take along pals and you'll forget that you're there to run. Just hang out while you move your feet and talk.
Sign up for a race. If you pay for and sign up for a race in the near future, you'll "fear" not being able to run it - and you're less likely to slack off.
Set small goals. Like, "By August 10th I will have run 100 miles." You are more focused on tallying up the miles and planning rather than skipping one day with the excuse of going the next.
Race other runners in the park. Even if you don't admit it, everyone loves to pass another runner. Pick out people and make a goal of catching up or passing them and maintaining it.
Plan the day that you'll rest. Like: "I'll take July 19th and 24th off to go to a movie." Plan and anticipate how you'll savor every minute of the time you now have - free!

I had to get out and run even though it seems it's been pouring for a week now. I made my run shorter and ran with a few friends. Then when you're trying to run in the heat - heh - rain doesn't seem so bad!

2006-06-01T21:35:00.000-07:00

The Bay to Breakers was a complete blast. Costumes like I've never seen, amped crowds, hyper runners, tortillas flung like frisbees for the first mile, naked people, insane elite times, and so fun that I'm going back next year for sure. OH yeah.

2006-05-29T14:58:00.000-07:00

Last fall I started riding Cherry Creek bike path south towards the reservoir. Today, I finally ran this trail. Here's what I found.

It's close to downtown, so you don't have to travel far. But it's also quiet enough for the zen-running fix. If you like to trail run but your buddies don't like the hills, take them here. There's almost no incline either way. Likewise, if you want to run a trail alone, this doles out the trees and narrow dirt; And keeps you from big trouble on the back-roads trails sans help. Keep your eyes up for Mtn. Bikers. And finally, check out the parking situation. Park along Cherry Creek Drive North and cross the bridge on Cherry Street like I did.

But for an evening run after work, you win. It's quick, quiet, and works out the mental kinks like any 'ole trail run. And no driving, mountain lions, or crazy changes in tempurature.

2006-05-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

Cheeseman Park: 1.44 miles

This is the perfect run from anywhere in Capital Hill or Governer's Park, or Congress Park. Or Washington Park if you are very motivated to run more. In any case, after a long day of Frisbee in the park yesterday, I decided to measure the circuit of the park once and for all. And Buzzcut, you were right. It's closer to 1.5 miles! Here's the Google Earth image of this measurement.

2006-05-08T21:14:00.000-07:00

Traveling in the near future? I know I am. And I needed to know where to run in San Fransisco - it is mostly urban and urban can be tricky. For a $2.95 per month, you can peruse the Athletic Minded Traveler for your answers. Hotels, gyms, eating, gearhead shopping, or "play" areas are all the focus of the site. Thanks for the link, Dale.

2006-05-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

Monday: Run 45 minutes. Make it easy.
Tuesday: Run 55 minutes. On a hill! (up and down is fine)
Wednesday: Run 30 minutes. Make it super easy. Bring the dog.
Thursday: Run 50 minutes. Tempo (WTF is tempo?) (See below)
Friday: Rest and Relax. Use the remote. And Valet. Chinese Delivery for dinner.
Saturday: Run 8 miles slow. Never get out of breath.
Sunday: Sleep in. Go to church. Take a walk. Have fun. (Jen says so)

Tempo running is at a pace where you can't easily have a conversation, but you aren't completely uncomfortable. With a little of your own mental encouragement, you can hold this pace for 50 minutes. If you need to recover, slow down for 5 minutes, but don't stop. The point of tempo is to teach your muscles to recover even at a high heart rate.

2006-04-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

The Bay to Breakers race is 3 weeks away!

2006-04-25T20:56:00.000-07:00

So, if you have been trying to follow my training scribble, rest assured. I will promise to write the programs a little less elusive. In any case, the numbers on these programs is in minutes. Two years back I joined a running group with a coach. He (and a number of other coaches) believe that time and not distance is a good way to plan your programs. I believe the time measurement works better for me, but it may not work better for everyone. Most programs name distances (then quality of distance, such as "hill" or "easy" or "hard".)

There are days that I even walk. And yes, I count the time walking as the total tally of time for that day. Maybe I'm too easy on myself. But I try not to walk for more than five minutes. This isn't my idea. It's whoever layed the rules for the adage "listen to your body". (Are there rules?) In any case, I trust it! Good luck with your training this week!

2006-04-24T21:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, now it's building up to a 7 mile long run.

Monday: 40 mins (easy)
Tuesday: 55 mins hill
Wednesday: off
Thursday: 45 mins (little bit harder than easy)
Friday: off
Saturday: 7 miles!

2006-04-17T21:41:00.000-07:00

So, the workout is in. (Drum roll, anima-style)

Monday: 40 mins
Tuesday: 45 mins
Wednesday: Off
Thursday: 40 mins
Friday: Off
Saturday: 6 miles at 8AM

Have fun boys and girls!

2006-04-17T14:33:00.000-07:00

Mesa Trail:

Okay, I know I wrote about Mesa before. But this time, we ran it by the book: Trail Running Colorado's Front Range. In this book, it brought us through to the Blue Bellstem trail, then back on Mesa, then to Towhee trail and finally back to Mesa Trail once again. The one-and-only thing I thought of as I ran/walked this trail was: Where's Oxygen when you need it?

Looks like I'm gonna need to run the Capital Building Stairs a time or two; Bay-to-Breakers is only a month away!

2006-04-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

16th Street Mall goes wireless!

As I was walking down the 16th Street Mall today, I overheard a Denver Post newsanchor interviewing a woman: "So, how do you feel about the entire 16th Street Mall becoming a hub for wireless internet?"

Not running news, but definatly local.

2006-04-12T08:16:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the fun look, Knighthawk. It's a running podcast. I"m gonna listen!

http://pouringdownpictures.com/morningrun.mov

2006-04-03T19:42:00.000-07:00

Four of us are going to run the Denver Marathon Relay!

Buzzcut, BrianD, and Sarah and I are in for a four-person relay on October 15th. It's a long way away, but in the meantime are a whole bunch of other races worth trying out. The relay distances are:

6 miles
4 miles
7 miles
9 miles

2006-03-25T10:45:00.000-08:00

Okay, if for some reason you are on disability, go ahead and stay on the couch. A man on disability was caught training for a marathon, and he's in jail.

2006-03-25T06:33:00.000-08:00

I just bought a men's running shirt to wear. It was the only one that fit my torso. What do you think? My next business is going to be an online running gear store, with the scope of sizes as complete as most casual clothing stores (petite, tall, etc.) Why aren't there more?

Anyway, later on today I'm going to post the first week of the two month training program in prep for May 21st. Look for it!

2006-03-22T20:07:00.000-08:00

The Cooper River Ridge Run

2006-03-21T20:54:00.000-08:00

We love Denver because we love running. What a great place to escape with a run! I am currently in Charleston, South Carolina for the week - a little Spring Break break. So what exactly have I discovered?

The south isn't set up for running.

First of all, it's hot. And, there are little trails or even trail setups for a good, long, hard run. But of course, I want to leave you with good news. Google Earth DOES know South Carolina, and does know how to recognize trails even among the rural highways of Goose Creek.

Owen and I ran a trail marked as a 4-miler, weaving through more traffic than we should for the population, but better, nice quiet trails that ask for a quiet footsteps. So, you ask, is the south unfriendly to running? I guess it depends. Austin, TX is south - but friendly to runners.

What you should remember about traveling, is that you shouldn't let messy drivers, pavement-filled runs and wild dogs get the best of you. Run even though the locals don't, and you really may start something. Or just get some funny looks, but whatever.

2006-03-12T21:53:00.000-08:00

Runnin' of the Green

Sometimes there's a sentiment that snow's a pain in the city. Traffic, commuting, dirty slush on your Dockers, and large patches of yellow snow makes urban snow showers less than friendly.

Yesterday morning, however, 2500 runners made it in perfect time to an early morning run before Sunday's snow showers. To me, a great run before the snow comes is as satisfying as hitting all green lights on the way down Broadway. The LoDo Runnin' of the Green 7K set off this season's races (for me anyhow) - packed with green-wigged runners, Irish music and free beer at 10:30 am.

The race started at 17th and Wazee at McCormick's. The 7K (about 4.3 miles) led us down Wazee and Blake to 20th, up past Forest Room 5 (a great wine bar) and around some Art Deco buildings before doubling back. It was cold, for sure, but only until the race energy heats those streets and speeds up your step.

What was an even better surprise was that after a long Sunday brunch, I came home, checked the results of the race and boom: they're posted! Let me tell you, for someone obsessed with times, you can see your results while the race endorphins are still fresh.

Wash-Park-Run-Web

2006-03-07T19:26:00.000-08:00

Wash-Park-Run-Web
Originally uploaded by runtherockies.

Google Maps and You

As a runner you want me to tell you what's cool and new in the running community and hopefully as much as I can about the Front Range running culture. This, my friends is the newest old news: Perhaps you've heard of Google. (The Starbucks of Search Engines) One of the niftyest tools for runners out by big "G" is Google Earth. You can measure your runs using the Tools>Measure>Path[tab] function.

Once you get over the novelty of the fact that you have a real, live satellite at your every command, you realize that planning training and run distances is a piece of cake. Just measure them out, like I did on this run to Washington Park from my apartment.

What this image doesn't show is that a dialog box appears as you are drawing the path, updating the actual mileage. For this run, it was exactly 6.79 miles. Kinda puts that last, hard .09 miles in perspective for you. In any case, check it out and ditch your clunky heart rate monitor/GPS/calorie counter/breathalizer wrist watch, and run like no one's watching.

2006-03-01T19:26:00.000-08:00

I've been waiting a long time to write about Washington Park.

"Wash" park, is a pretty popular way to get about 2.8 miles in on any evening. It's completely safe, completly pebble-gravel and the trail has no surprizes, so if the sun goes down on you you don't have to chicken-foot your way in the dark. Just recently I was at Runner's Roost where they have the most popular running spots in Denver, and I was floored: they don't name Washington. The only reason for this is because Wash park needs no help finding runners to work the trails. It's already packed at times on Saturday morning.

But for you, the gung-ho runner who needs a 11:00pm fix, this is the place to go. There is only one intersection where vehicles enter the park and you've got to watch for cars. But for 2.8 miles of terrian in an urban area that's not bad.

By the way, I read in 5280 that is was voted the best place to "break up with your boy/girlfriend". Say Wha? I guess this is such a popular event that people have really thought this one out. Gotta love Denver.

2006-02-20T21:10:00.000-08:00

Looks like risslicious is down for the Bay to Breakers. :) !

Now all we need is some surfboards and overalls.

In any case, Tuesday nights are at Washington Park: 6:00pm sharp. We're going to meet at the South High School Parking Lot, for at least 3 miles. Keep smilin' it's just the beginning!

2006-02-14T07:10:00.000-08:00

Yet another way to drag writing out of a running habit: I'm now editing the Rocky Mountain Raod Runners newsletter. I can't wait! I get to interview people, (which I love doin) and perhaps a little bit o' writin.

2006-02-10T13:21:00.000-08:00

Looks like for Spring Break, I'll be heading down to sweet Charleston. I'm flying into Atlanta, taking a shuttle to my sister's house, and then driving her truck to the coast. Can't wait to see the beach!

2006-02-07T17:37:00.000-08:00

Boycott UPS!

I left school early in order to wait for a package. I put a note on my mailbox: "Please call 720 394...." I am obliviously writing email, when I hear a UPS truck starting. I go to my mailbox and there is the ole' Orange Slip. The guy just wrote a note without calling, or even knocking. I swear, I'll never use UPS to ship something. Too bad MOST online stores and Amazon merchants use it 'cause it's cheaper than USPS and FedEx. Let's boycott it, aye? I don't even like their logo that much.

2006-02-05T21:20:00.000-08:00

I registered for Bay to Breakers, May 21st. Now I'm committed. I also registered for Rim Rock Run on November 12. That's far, but I think I'll have some time to keep it all goin. I think that might mean less evenings at the RIO (sniff!) but I can always fit one in. :)

In other news, it looks the the Steelers got the SB trophy. I'm only glad because my neighbors didn't jump on their floor (my ceiling) all day. But hey, I'm not really a FB fan. Go Rapids.

2006-01-07T09:18:00.000-08:00

"The present moment is unlike the memory of it. Remembering is not
the negative of forgetting. Remembering is a form of forgetting."
Milan Kundera

2006-01-02T09:06:00.000-08:00

The Bay to Breakers race is May 21st. It's basically a half marathon, so I've taken a training program from the M&Beyond magazine. It has a training start date of Feb 19th. That means from now until then, it's no beer and all work!

But really, I want to be ready to take San Fran by the horns.

2005-12-11T21:16:00.000-08:00

Time to build that base. We're gonna do a month of building, then knock it up a notch and begin the half-marathon training build.

So, the next week goes something like this:

Dec.11 to 17th
Mon: rest
Tue: 3 miles
Wed: rest
Thur: 4 miles
Fri: Rest
Sat: 3 miles
Sun: 4 miles

2005-11-26T23:48:00.000-08:00

Gotta love runnin' when it's cold.

2005-11-09T18:54:00.000-08:00

Risslicious ran the Loveland Half Marathon a month after she ran a sweet marathon time! Damn girl, slow down! ;) (read: don't you dare, if you've got it, race with it.)

2005-10-23T12:41:00.000-07:00

Monday: Off (or 3 miles easy) and weights
Tuesday: 5 miles easy trails
Wednesday: Weights and 1 hour biking
Thursday: 7.5 to 8.5 miles (easy)
Friday: Off
Saturday: 11 miles (easy)
Sunday: Off

2005-10-16T22:34:00.000-07:00

So, heres it is:

M: 3 miles AM and 4 miles PM
T: Off (weights) and 2 hours biking
W: 4 Miles (tempo)
R: 7.5 to 8.5 Miles (easy)
F: Off (weights) and 1 hour biking super-easy. Get behind the cruisers and I mean it. Slack, baby, slack!!
S: 10 Miles (LRP)
S: Off (beer)

2005-10-16T10:32:00.000-07:00

Mesa Trail:

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7 Miles

The Mesa Trail we cornered at near dusk Saturday. It's a beautiful trail that follows the Flatirons gently down to Eldorado Canyon, starting at Chataqua. Obviously it's a popular trail, as Boulderites were around every switchback. That is, until you get to the backside of the Mesa Ridge. Then it's just you and the mountain lions at dusk.

We parked one car at Eldorado and one at Chataqua. Then ran the 7 mile distance to Eldorado. It was challenging enough to throw a couple of walking sessions in there, but easy enough both me and buzzcut were able to finish without mega-training. Risslicious was fully-fitnessed having run a marathon the week previous. All in all the pine never escaped our noses, the quiet never got too quiet, and the Boulder chill never took a large bite, even though I wore cotton.

Follow that run up with some AMAZING sushi and sake, and it's an out of this world date-for-a-date. Just do like I did and bring the best company you can find. You guys rock. :)

2005-10-10T22:20:00.000-07:00

Risslicious just finished the Portland Marathon running at an 8 something minute per mile pace for 26 miles. One tuff girl. Go navioto.

2005-10-10T22:02:00.000-07:00

If you own the Forerunner you know it came with a cable. No software. Here are the downloads for your Forerunner 201 or 301.

2005-10-10T21:55:00.000-07:00

"One of the most basic tenets of training is a hard one to sell to ambitious, impatient runners. It's that you must run less than your best most of the time. You just can't go all out, all the time."

Sometimes it's hard to know how hard your heart and lungs are working when it's late afternoon. After a particularly wound-up work day. I dunno about you, but I want to run hard. Work out those mental kinks. It wakes me up and relaxes me all at the same time. So, if you want to keep running, do it right. Or, limp around at work, all wound up.

2005-10-09T14:50:00.000-07:00

Running races is fun, but getting ready for them is better. My longest run in months occurred on Emerald Mountain, Steamboat Springs this weekend. We passed mountain bikers. Even entwined couples carrying new babies. But you know what really made this run better? 'Cause it's fall.

The trails down this phenomenal area make you feel like you are floating along. Like you live amongst elves in the deep purple, brown and great colors of the mountainside. Coming from the city where noise and people are never on the dry, it's nice to get out with the peripheral of an enchanted trail.

2005-10-05T20:57:00.000-07:00

Got a staircase? Or maybe 14? I happen to work in an 8 story building, of which has a quiet, heated eight-floor staircase. Recently I took up running up the staircase instead of taking the elevator. Please make sure you're prepared for the extra stress on your knees, because I felt it almost immediatly after getting back into ergonomic office stance. So, do some hills, some stairs, and maybe don't wear pretty shoes to work.

2005-10-02T18:57:00.000-07:00

How do you get ready for a 22 mile race in a month and a half? Here's an idea. The first week I'm going to gauge by time or distance. Last years kiss with the marathon should make a short build easier, but it's asking for a sore spot. Anyhow, here's the next two weeks:

1st week:
M- 30 mins or 3.5 miles (speed) and (2 hours biking)
T- 40 mins or 4 miles (easy)
W-off
R-45 mins or 5.5 to 6.5 miles (tempo)
F- off
S- 60 mins or 7 miles (tempo)
Su- off

2nd week:
M- 35 mins or 4.5 miles (easy)
T-40 mins or 3 miles (speed) (2 hours biking)
W-off
R-6 miles (recover) (2 hours biking)
F- off
S-8 miles (tempo)
Su-off (beer)

2005-09-13T16:09:00.000-07:00

I both love and walk upon rules. But these tenets of running hit home. But if you think I always listen to the Conversation rule, well, I'll just let you think I do. But don't expect me to say much.

2005-09-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Stanley Lake Park:

86th and Simms Ave

This park is great if you want to have a run with some hills, some focused trail running...but not go all out to the mountains. It's a very nice mellow Sunday afternoon run. You even get to see some bikinis, cute men with Labs, and fishermen in afternoon laze. It's quite the place.

In contrast, the trails aren't intuitive and there wasn't one trail sign to direct you. Supposedly the trail runs 'round the park. Yeah, sure. I ran this park with a friend today, and the trail spilled our running steps to a muddy beach. So, after a short backtrack and a 20 minute counterclockwise singletrack run back to the parking lot we came across a semi-sane trail. Time and thunder turned us around for a nice 4 miler, but I expect that the trail indeed goes around the whole lake for a nice 6 miles. It's all a matter of choosing the best unmarked trail. When I find out the true personality of this trail, you'll be the first to know.

By the way, the Steamboat run is a few weeks away. That means some hill workouts. If I live through them.

2005-08-31T17:41:00.000-07:00

Go buffs in 2005.

2005-08-31T16:51:00.000-07:00

Active Rest. I can't get enough of it. Well...

I don't know how many times English instructors have swayed students like myself to stay away from terms like "Active Rest" because it could be two things. One, you're intentionally resting, or two, you're so badass that being active IS resting. That of course means there is something greater than, strenuous activity. Must be those Ironman kids. Right. So, the Ironmen and women out there. They're like, oh yeah, ADD:

swim, bike, swim, eat, nap, run, bike, swim, lift, nap, eat, swim, blah, blah.

But, they've got an idea. (By the way, if you are running regularly, your "rest" could mean keeping you're heart rate from hitting 170 or higher. You figure it out.) So, while "resting" from running, instead of watching Simpson's and eating Cheetos (which are, better than actually running when you shoud be resting) get out your pink flowered swim trunks or peanut bikini and take a dip. Or just take some beers, put them in your beach cruiser basket and take an hour to ride 5 miles (kidding, it's illegal.)

Relax, chill out and go shopping or something. Buy flyfishing equipment. Or better yet, a damn new mattress. New socks. Some homebrew equipment. Whatever.

My point is, you like running, but don't think you are the Lao-tzu of running. He knows there's enough out there than firmly believe they are. Plus, and obviously you are begging for an injury both to your bad hip/knees or to your ego. Yeah, your ego.

2005-08-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

I've discovered that running means more than putting two feet on a path, leaning forward and falling over and over again. With a clear goal in mind, it's always easier to focus on a run. And running has a clear goal. "I'm gonna run 4 miles" or "I'm gonna run for 50 minutes" sit tall with goals. Meaureable ones even. Writing, I've found, is not that at all. There's never a point where you've reached anything other than arbitrary-to-the-content word counts, pages, or final edits where you then stop the footsteps of your fingers to the keyboard, relax and stretch out after something is written. If only it were that easy!

Now that school's back in, it's definitly time for that focus again, and with that it's time to get back on to the AM runs. Yesterday, I went on a run from my doorstep to Cheeseman park, around it and then back to my door. It was thundering, and the goal of the run was to beat the rain. So, I did. Likewise, this semester, I'm going to hear thunder of due dates in my brain. Economics thunder. Marketing thunder. And I'm going to race it, and race it fast.

2005-08-18T14:15:00.000-07:00

Why are off-topic jokes so funny? Because they Arrrrr.

2005-08-13T09:44:00.000-07:00

It's time for the Elk Meadow Trail Race at 9 AM this Saturday!

2005-08-07T09:02:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what it would be like to be in "always run" mode where you run from your house to your freinds house - to work - to parties - without gel, rest, or strange looks from people strolling around on the street? Yes, the virtual game Second Life is an amazing medium on which to spend your active rest days (you know, those days that you actively wish you were running?)

I joined this fun IM tool in June and it's been a great way to IM with those also involved in Second Life. You create, control, and manuever your own virtual avatar. I know I know, it's not very active and doesn't help you run faster. Still, my friends, I know how hard it is to take a day off of running here and there. Those days when you'd rather be grinding it out on the hills and trails and paths with your running shoes melted on your feet, and that very very real mentality that if you do anything in your life, you will "always run". And maybe even on Thanksgiving Day. And you know what? That's very real - at least for me.

So, loving to run is great, but since you can't run all day and all night, you've got to focus on the other 80% of your year that you do other kickass things - like read, play Second Life, and visit drinking parlors.

More on the highly important "active rest" ideology, soon!

2005-08-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

"Top-Notch" verses "Outstanding"

2005-08-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

Elk Meadow Park: 5 to 12 miles; Easy to difficult; 1750 elevation change

Outstanding run for summer. It's cooler during the day (sunscreen) and relatively vacant. In summer it's hard to find trails that aren't packed with hiking and MTB. This trail, for whatever reason, is rarely packed with people and if you do see them, it's across a gorgeous meadow that slopes north. Northern sloping trails have a tendency to hold on to their snow, so prepare if it's closer to colder months by bringing your lightweight ice pick, avy beacon, and short wave radios. Okay, maybe just high collar trail shoes.

The trail works around the upper slope of the meadow, then branches off into Bergen Peak trail (or Too Long trail) and a few others that climb the various mountains around you. Take one of the latter trails and have yourself a lung-breaker. A couple on this trail informed me they've seen mountain lions, but thats about as possible as running across a monk from Uzbekistan.

This trail made a Saturday afternoon nap, a damn good one. It's not convenient to Denver, really, so make this a later/earlier/weekend run. Or, just snooze in your chair at work around 3.

2005-07-31T21:24:00.000-07:00

This weekend, somehow, I was able to get in about 11 miles of running. It was assisted greatly by the help of PowerGel. And, the gel is a beautiful thing.

A few of us went to knighthawk's hockey game this afternoon, and from the enclosed window of the spectator cage, we all saw the caffinated 100 calories work their magic on the ice. So, I guess it works on iceskates too. I usually eat half a package before most runs, for a perk, and a whole one before the race. Although GU and Powergel are some of my favorites, Honey Stinger and CarbBoom are also good. Rissilicious loves the HoneyStingers because they're more appropriate for a vegan athlete, and GU is a favorite with triathletes. But, with a name like GU, you've got that curiousity factor feeding your orbiting athletes. Many "Energy Drinks" like RedBull have the same effect on the system as these gels. But why drink more fluid to get the same effect? Choice, I'll guess. Kind of reminds me of the beer-drinker verses the Shot-putter.

2005-07-30T08:06:00.000-07:00

Since I'm not running a marathon this fall, I've decided to run a few smaller races with risslicious, langston, buzzcut, knighthawk, trudy and possible others. Those races are here:

Run for Literacy: 7 miles. I have no clue what this race will be like, but I gotta get out to Steamboat, since, well, I've never been there. Tho Steamboat is conversationally worked as a summertime gem, I think September will have to do. Plus, I think the beer fest is going on...er, I mean the Art Fest - I just love a nice, cold tall frothy piece of artwork.

Silent Trails Memorial Race: 10 miles. I ran this in 2003 with langston. The scenery is magnificent, and the race is small enough that "runner's camraderie" shines through both pre-race events and post-race endorphins. I will say, that in training for this one, you'll need hill workouts. What's called the "Death Crotch" at mile 4 is not a joke. It's one mile of steep, lung-breaking work. Most people hike it. Even the ranking age groupers. The time/and season make it *$%#&^*& freezing in WY, so bring your electric legwarmers. Or maybe just gloves and a hat.

Rim Rock Run: 22.3 miles. I ran this last year, and it was by far the most scenic race ever. It dances around the Rim of the Colorado Monument on softer asphalt roads. The busride was a little bit of a pain (last year I nearly missed gun-time) but the end of the race you are amazingly close to your nice, fast, warm little car. You run to the top of the monument then follow the loping flat granite-sculpted park for the next 16 or so miles. Then you take a few miles to sink back down and break the tape in a lower elevation. If you plan on whining on the hill climb, just wait, because running downhill is the real challenge. Constant quad-braking gets tiring (but, in a good way.) Aid stations have contests where they celebrate every 4th mile with flare, energy, gummy bears, and GU for your post-race vote. FYI: They have 3 kegs of good beer at the end of the race. That's what I'm talkin' about.

2005-07-28T22:27:00.000-07:00

"The many proponents of diets like Atkins and South Beach would have the public believe that carbohydrate is some kind of poison. Don't listen to them. Carbo's are a runner's best friend."

-Jason Karp, Marathon and Beyond Mag.

And, kids I agree. The article, appearing in the July/August version went on to get reeeally scientific and kind of bony. Dry and Bony. But that's the point! Runner's are not bony, skinny people. Nor should they strive to be. If you're going to run around the trails and roads essentially pounding your body into cement, gravel, asphalt....ya gotta have muscles to support your bones. So, the fuel tank for muscles is stored in your blood and liver, in yes, the form of a carbohydrate. Avoiding carbs is not for you. So, long story short; You didn't pick up the trend of legwarmers, polyester buttondowns, or Aquanet bangs (or DID you!!) when they emerged again in the fashion industry a year ago, so don't fall for this one. Speaking of carbohydrates, margaritas have carbs. mmmm, margs.

2005-07-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Walker Ranch Loop:

7.6 miles round trip on singletrack; difficult; moderate to extreme; 1000 feet elevation; too steep for strollers but not steep enough for beer. Starts from Flagstaff road in Boulder about 3 miles from where your 150 cc scooter, or 2 cylinder Korena car chug up Flagstaff mountain. Speaking of chugging...

I warn you folks that I got lost on this trail - granted it was winter and the snow covered the trail. There is little to no traffic on the surrounding roads, which can get you praying or singing "Welcome to the Jungle" - To be quite honest this trail swallowed me whole so what the heck am I doing posting it?? I'm a softie for the the trails that give you a cool view the whole time - and it does. No special browsers needed for the moving graphics of the trail either. Oh yeah.

2005-07-26T07:07:00.000-07:00

Ran and rode yesterday. A broken spoke stopped the ride at mile 10 for a turnaround. Now, what I want to know is what caused it?

I'm looking at classes to take for Fall; I've already got a full schedule but the problem is, that I'm thinking of going right into a Master's. I applied for the Peace Corps in the beginning of the summer, and now it's a matter of waiting to see if my plan of action is acceptable. I requested the Island of Truk in the Marianas islands. Everyone else wants to go there so I'm wondering how marvelous and outstanding an idea for economic development they consider some undergrad from Colorado - yeah me.

In any case, I'm collecting the stack of Calvin and Hobbes I'll take. Dad gave me a German version one of C & H mini books, so that will take a while to translate. I wonder if it will be as funny? Are the jokes embedded in wienerschnitzel and 99 luft balloons?

2005-07-23T07:54:00.000-07:00

Big Dry Creek Trail:

9 Miles one-way; easy terrain; minimal elevation change; trail starts at North Stanley Lake Open Space park on about 100th and Simms ave.

A short bikeride this morning confirmed the runnability of this trail. Good for people with strollers, but, well, it's in Westminister so prepare for vicious and often brutal suburbia. If you live around there, then, it's probably perfect distance to your lair and you are vicious.

2005-07-20T22:08:00.000-07:00

So, about running. I put up a website this semester for a Web Design class. What's probably not obvious about the site is that it's not in CSS. But I'm in the process of reading a co-worker's own blog reccomendation on "The Art and Science of Web Design" so we'll see if I can wrestle out a few good reasons to learn CSS.

But again, about running. I'm piling on about 12 miles a week in 4 segments, and loading the 'ole feet up with some ground action. What's probably not obvious is that I am pretty out of shape at the moment. 12 miles a week is really not very much, but it seems like a lot. Anyhow, to supplement the endless supply of keyboards and ergonomic chair workouts, I thought I'd try for a final submission to running and philosophy book that's brewing over in Kentucky. I submitted an abstract for a 19 page essay about the 26 miles in a marathon compared to the 26 years of [my] life, but it seems too....much like a memoir. I can, only write about my own marathon experience unless I run around with a microphone and interview the experiences among my friends. So, the quickest answer is that I am going to edit what I have to focus more on the reader's experience. But that's more writing eval jive than I meant...

So, about running. Hell, I just love it. When else do you feel more alive then when running and breathing for the obvious reason of having fun.

2005-07-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

So, what are the top three most commonly bought commodities? (Non-perishable, traded domestically and internationally)

2005-07-18T22:36:00.000-07:00

Went to see Monty Python and the Holy Grail at Red Rocks Ampitheatre. The movie stays hilarious - I love it! "It's just a flesh wound!"" "A shrubbery!"

2005-07-18T12:47:00.000-07:00

So does the use of RV's mean you've given in? John told me today that if you buy an RV for a vacation, you might as well buy a rocker and a tombstone. That my parents just bought an RV to visit me in Colorado with doesn't sit well with "tombstone" - but I have to disagree with him, because I'm glad they are RVing it because well, they are hitting late 50's; brats and beer over the campfire, somehow, just doesn't fit. Speaking of Brats, here is how to make them with beer.

2005-07-18T09:45:00.000-07:00

My friend Kelly asked me if ruby earrings or a trip to Amsterdam were equal in birthday pleasantry. WHAT?? Kell-bone, if you ask me, the trip to Amsterdam is by far the best choice, given one. But then again, your friends can whoo a set of earrings but not necessarily your collection of pictures of pseudo-Cheech and Chong and whatever else Amsterdam is known for. Anyone else been to Amsterdam?

Nonetheless here's Kelly and I in Charleston, SC:

2005-07-17T11:28:00.000-07:00

I think this last couple of weeks has been the longest I've taken off running in more than a year. While I miss it, I've adaquatly replaced running with a few late nights. I feel like even more than ever though, I actually want to run these last few days. Anyhow, long story: time off is good.

My aunt Becky (we share the same first and last name) is going into the hospital for a procedure requiring general anesthesia - and apparently they won't let you leave the hospital until you can pee. So, I think I'm going to call her Monday afternoon and fill up the bathtub, or water the lawn or something. She doesn't like hospitals!! My youngest cousin Matthew is at his boys camp now, playing cowboys and indians apparently. He, Becky and Dan came to visit last August and Matthew moved around on the rocks like a 9-year old spiderman.

2005-07-16T21:07:00.000-07:00

I miss Winter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2005-07-16T17:27:00.000-07:00

2005-07-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

Summer's great, but we want want isn't here. Fall is grreat. I love the leaves, the colors and it's a little bit cold....Plus, buzzcut has just informed me that I'm an Orange and Green in the theory of personalities ratings. Orange for "fun-loving" and Green for "I like to think" - Those of you who know me can probably vouch for or against those! :)

Today, I have been looking for a place to host a site. I researched and found www.bluehost.com praise-friendly but when I signed up it automatically charged my card $166.00! Holy crap that's a chunk, so I canceled the order. There's GOT to be something for less!

Anyone?