Monday, March 03, 2008

Unexpected

Just like last week my only miles were my Saturday long run. And just like last week I got some sort of aerobic exercise on the stationary bike at the gym on three occasions.

The weather all week had been very decidedly spring-like. I hadn't had a chance to run with my Cruiser buds for a while. This week's email plans included the line "It looks like we can put aside the rain gear for this week end and pick up the sunscreen instead." I was also excited about running with them since they planned on running into Chino Hills State Park. Trails - woo hoo!

Much to my surprise I awoke to a cloudy, misty morning. I checked the weather on-line and the forecast called for highs in the 70's and 10% chance of precipitation. Since the run was 30 miles from home I went out the door dressed for the sunnier weather predicted. Alas I arrived in Yorba Linda to the same gloomy, wet conditions.

The run included 2 miles on streets to get into the park. The street was Fairmont and the direction was UP. What a way to start the run, I hadn't expected that (but the downhill finish was sure going to be appreciated).

We regrouped when we hit the entrance to the park. I fell in with Denis for the loop through the park. He had just recently returned from running a marathon in Tahiti. I think that is pretty cool. This was also his first time running in Chino State Park. I think he really enjoyed it. The low clouds and mist persisted throughout the run, making visibility with glasses difficult. It even rained a little at one point, not exactly the weather I expected, but really good for running none the less.

The loop on Southridge, down Diemer, Telegraph Canyon and back up Little Canyon trail was 5 miles. Add this to the road section and the whole run would have been 9 miles. I was really hoping for more. When Dennis and I reached the exit there were some of the faster runners waiting for us. Among them was Julie, my MCM partner and current WTRS buddy.

I looked at her an told her I was thinking about making another loop around. She just looked at me and then said "You're not kidding are you? Do you need the miles?" No, I wasn't kidding and I kind of hoped she'd be interested in going around with me. As far as needing the miles, I don't know, but I did WANT the miles. Julie wasn't biting so I ran the loop alone for a total of 14 miles.

My total mileage in February was a paltry 83.1 even with the added extra bonus leap day. It is likely to be on the low side for the near future.

9 comments:

Backofpack said...

Good for you Darrell - take those miles when the urge strikes and they are available! Seems like you are doing a good job fitting them in where you can. Hope you get more sun in March and more miles available. I'm looking forward to Big Sur!

Anne said...

Saturday threw me too, though the rain never made it this far south. Hey, at least it's green...and just in time for St. Paddy's Day.

Joe said...

The second loop sounded like fun, mist notwithstanding.

Hope the hip is cooperating. I'm concerned about why the mid week runs aren't happening...

Scott McMurtrey said...

i saw the grass in my yard today. the snow is melting! i'm jealous of your 80+ mile month.

Anonymous said...

It sounds like you have some great running locations over there. What a nice area! I'm jealous. :) That mileage sounds pretty good to me! Keep up the good work.

Ryan said...

Nice job on the 83. Looking forward for you to ramp up for the springtime. When is the next marathon?

Anonymous said...

marathon in tahiti - pretty cool!

your paltry 83 miles for the month of feb is more than my 82, and i'm actually in training! i think i need more miles....

David said...

You are a glutton for mileage. I would have gone out with you for another loop.

Sarah said...

Your last line sounds ominous. I hope you're not heading down the injury road!