Things didn't look so bad when I got up at 7 this morning. The outside temp was showing 50 and it wasn't raining. I got stuff together and headed out by 7:30. On the way to Harbins Park for a longish run.
Five minutes down the road and the rain started. The Volvo was telling me the outside temp was creeping down. By the time I got to the park, the temp was showing 45 and the rain was steady. I got out of the front seat and walked around to the rear to gear up. Brrrrrrr.
I went with the old nylon jacket and pants over a t-shirt and compression shorts. Plus gloves, hat, and the Buff. The GoLite Rush pack was full of water and a few snacks. Off we go!
I started on the mtn bike loop planning to explore the new section. About 3 miles in, I'm at the turn for the new stuff. 10 yards on this trail and there's an immediate creek crossing. The creek is rocking with all the rain, so I scout up and down stream for an easy way over. One big rock plus one downed tree and I'm on the other side.
The new section actually has a decent hill climb. I'm happy to see that. The other trails at the park don't have any big hills to speak of. It's good to have a hill option for training. I'm pretty cold and wet so I keep running up the hill. The new stuff adds at least 2 miles.
Back over the creek to the main trail and on to the parking lot. I'm surprised to see another car in the lot. The weather is pretty nasty.
The jacket and pants are soaked and heavy. I opt to switch the jacket for a fleece top. The pants get swapped for shorts just to add a layer over the compression shorts. The gloves had come off a while back. The stuff was so wet it wasn't keeping me warm.
I wasn't too sure about the new outfit keeping me any warmer. I go out on the short mtn bike loop so I can drop if I get too cold. But it's not terrible. I add in the short horse trail loop to push the mileage over 10.
And that's enough for today. I was cold enough to stop. 11 miles in 2.5 hours according to the Garmin so maybe 12 actual miles. The main thing is getting out there on days like this. Don't let the weather dictate your runs too much.
I was happy with the effort, but not really prepared for the conditions. This fall has been pretty mild with temps warmer than normal. Today we jumped right into a cold rain. That's the hardest stuff for me to run in. I don't mind the cold and I don't mind the rain. But put the two together and things get uncomfortable pretty quick.
I could probably use a better rain jacket or shell. Yeah, that's what I need, more gear. Time to get myself something for Christmas.
The rest of the day was quiet. I got home quick for a hot, hot shower. Then plopped into the comfy chair by the fire with hot soup. Followed by a brief nap as I passed out in the chair. I did do some laundry but spent most of the day resting comfortably.
The Rogues are adding a trail half marathon at Sweetwater State Park in 2010. The
SweetH2O Sweetheart Half Marathon is set for Feb. 13, 2010 with proceeds benefitting the park. It should be a good one.