THIS SATURDAY AT-A-GLANCE
Mileage: 18
February Volunteers:
Set-up – Sherry and Clark Osborne
Breakdown – Laura Diamond
Supplies – Tom McKiernan, Tom Monahan, Tim and Sendia Lysaght
Aid station/s – Tom Monahan
Pace Leaders:
9:00 – Mike Miskel
10:00 – Ed Burnett and Luz Lyon
11:00 – Mira Reverente
12:00 – Caroline Connolly
13:00/14:00 – Tom McKiernan
*Please don’t forget to thank our volunteers for their time, when you get the chance.
TRAINING CORNER
By George Arita, Advisor of Training
Georgerunvta@aol.com
LSD
Yeah, a modest increase in mileage from our previous high will greet us this Saturday. An 18-miler is on our calendar! We could go out 9 miles and return 9 miles. This route will take us out to previously “uncharted waters” (for some of us) beyond the HWY 101 underpass. In two weeks (February 28), we have another 18-miler on our schedule. On that day I suggest we start the run going SOUTH to our Smiley Marker 1 (-1?) on the Promenade and back to the start. That’ll give us 2 miles. Then out to Mile 8 and back (2 + 16 = 18, if my math is correct). We will be running this reverse route later when we run our 20 and 22 milers, so we can use the 28th as an introduction to the route.
Faithful Tom will be at his usual station at Mile 4.7 to provide us with his friendly greetings and water and Gatorade refills.
WEATHER?
I know I said that I will not make any more weather prognostications because I am always wrong but last Saturday, we had a good drenching and some people we without proper cover. Although the heavy rain is forecast for Sunday, we might get some or a lot on Saturday. Come prepared with a garbage bag or poncho.
Last week, the trail and road between the RV Park and the group campground were flooded. On my way out, I followed some people on Main St, but then had to cut across the dirt parking area to get back on the trail. On my way back I stayed on the road adjacent to the trail and went up the grassy mound on the left side of the road to avoid the water. That route was not bad. I suggest taking that route if the road is flooded again.
ESSAY: Give Yourself a Treat and Hit the Trails
This week’s essay is on trail running. Our trail running expert is Betty Crowell, who graciously wrote the interesting and marvelous essay below. Our sincere thanks to Betty. Read on and enjoy.
We are blessed to live in an area surrounded by beautiful mountains and plentiful trails. What better way to clear your mind and work out those kinks than to take a brisk run through the hills? Surrounded by budding trees and blossoming flowers, trail runs can be a refreshing change-up in your street running regimen. The benefits of trail running over pavement pounding is exactly that - POUNDING ! We're all aware of the toll that running on sidewalks and streets takes on our bodies. Why not trade that in for a style of running that strengthens your core and support system (muscles, ligaments and tendons) and reduces the chance of injury? If that sounds appealing, welcome to trail running.
I "discovered" trail running shortly after beginning my marathon training several years ago, and became addicted to it immediately. Trail running instantly transports me out of the hectic, widget-counting stresses of everyday life into a tranquil, introspective calm. As trail runners often are quick to agree, a lot of life's little problems are solved on those trails.
So what should one expect on the trail that would be different from running on the street? For starters, the terrain can vary greatly from the typical flat, wide streets. While some trails will include paved sections, many trails will be a combination of relatively wide fire roads to single-track, "technical" paths. Hazards will include low tree branches, tree roots, rocks, ruts, gravel, streams, mud and perhaps some sharp drop-offs. But that's what makes it fun!! Add to that poison oak, some coyotes, the deer, lots of mosquitoes, and an occasional snake.
You'll also come to learn that every trail run is a "hill" day, and that hills come in three sizes: long, steep, and "You gotta be kidding! Doesn't this thing ever end?" But this is a good thing because after of few of those encounters you will notice that those tiny little inclines in your street training that you previously referred to as hills no longer seem nearly as difficult. Congratulations, your trail running has paid off.
What special equipment will you need to get started? Maps are a necessity, as is a good hydration system adequate to keep you well hydrated longer than you think and for temperatures greater than you plan. Remember, there are no support stations on the trails, so you need to carry everything on your body you will need. Experience has taught me that conditions are frequently more strenuous than what was expected, so it's smart to carry more supplies that you ever expect to need. I personally never run the trails alone, but for those who chose to do so, a cell phone is a must even though there may not always be service, so leaving word as to your location and expected return time will a friend or family member is highly recommended. We all know that accidents can happen and no one wants to require a search team.
The trail racing season is similar to street running in that it is year-round and available in all distances. Most races will vary in length from 10k to half-marathon distance, with much longer distances available beyond marathon distance (ultra-marathons). Support stations are much less frequent than in street racing, and may vary from 3 to 6 miles apart (or even further). Rather than the mob scene of thousands of runners that crowd most marathon race starts, trail races rarely exceed several hundred runners. The environment is much more laid back, but with the same great camaraderie that I have come to love about all races. The competition is enticing but the friendships and instant connections with complete strangers that share your passion, is the attraction that has captured my heart.
So go discover the trails and leave the asphalt for another day. Your body and mind will thank you.
For trail running tips and race schedules, check these websites: trailrunning.com; xterraplanet.com; active.com
RUNNER PROFILE: RICK KANATZAR
Number of marathons completed: 7
Favorite marathon: Chicago has been my favorite so far because I ran my best there plus it’s a great city. But Boston is right up there too!
Proudest accomplishment: Helping my friends do their best. I also found $25 at my first (Las Vegas) Marathon, parlayed that to $40 and three beers! Long story…
Greatest weakness: Girls smiling at me. I just melt. ☺
Pre-race rituals: Before every race, I pray like hell.
Post-race recovery strategies: An ice bath and two beers, and then I start celebrating!
I would rather be a little faster/a little richer/a little smarter (choose one)… I would much rather be smarter. The rest will follow.
What do you like to do when you're not running? I usually have school or work, but I like to travel and socialize.
Funniest thing that has ever happened to you during a run or race? Funniest? Maybe fun-est --- having Lindsay around. That girl just gets the whole place going on!
What made you want to do a marathon? I did my first marathon with out any training just to see if I could. I like running with my friends-and all our new members. It is all about having a good time and meeting new people. There’s nothing better than joking around and seeing everyone improving for 20 miles.
Is there anybody in our group that you admire? If so, what/why? Yes, I admire Tom McKiernan. What an awesome guy! And everyone that just tries there best. They are the real runners.
CLUB NEWS
*Attention: Napa Valley Marathon-bound Folks
Denise Ellison would like to organize a pre-marathon dinner. Please e-mail her at: dmecnm@gmail.com and give her your contact information, arrival, departure and hotel details.
*Run Ventura Now On Facebook
Just a note to those socially networked folks in the group, or those who want to be more socially networked – Run Ventura is now on Facebook Groups! With discussion boards, picture sharing, and more, we welcome all to join and share. See the link to join on the “About Us” page or look us up on Facebook Groups. And you need a Facebook account to join.
*Birthday corner
Feb. 3 – Veronica Santangelo
Feb. 5 – Betty Crowell
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
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