Taking The Leap

OLP was good enough last week, so we are continuing to use it until construction makes it unusable.  (With the theory that the problem we know is better than the problem we don't know.)  So, tomorrow night, we will be meeting at the normal spot.  For those of you doing intervals, switch it up to 1/2 mile repeats this week.  For the two mile group, think about if you are ready to up it to 2 1/4 or 2 1/2 miles.  The other choice is to increase your pace slightly.  Don't push it if you aren't ready to, specifically injury-wise, but you don't want to stagnate either if your goal is to become a better runner.  It's nice to get to be able to do 3 miles at a rip, so that the world of 5k races is open to you.

Announcements:
Coming up on Friday, August 9th, is Lockheed Martin Night at the Syracuse Chiefs.  That means free general admission tickets to anyone who wants them, plus the game is followed by a good fireworks show.  Let me know at the park if you need tickets, I'll have them with me the next couple Tuesdays.  (Feel free to take extra for friends.)  There is usual a simple meet-up before the game (a tail-less tail-gate if you will) and some attempt to sit as a group at the game.

Ken (or "Uncle Ken") has asked us to pass along the blog, "Cooks on the Run".  It has stories about training, but more importantly, fun, healthy recipes.  (Including several vegetarian/vegan/gluten free listings in the recipes section.)  If you want to feel better about the unhealthy food you eat, glance through one of their meal plans. :-)  The most recent entry in the main blog section includes a fun sounding (and healthy) pancake recipe and running energy balls.  Seriously, it's worth reading just for the homemade energy balls.  Scrolling down there is polenta, tofu and something called "gyoza".  And a lot of quinoa.  Reading through some of these, definitely made me crave a Twinkie.  Something is wrong with me.

Escalade's snowboard guide, Megan-Mack Nicholson, is the brains behind the course for an upcoming obstacle course run at Greek Peak on Sunday, September 15th.  It's called the "Tuff eNuff Challenge" and gives the option of a 5k or a 10k course.  (It does not repeat, so to do all the obstacles you need to do the 10k variant.)  It is a fundraiser for a couple good causes and the race entry includes a free Mountain Coaster ride and reduced pricing for the rest of the attractions at the adventure center.  (Ropes course, zip lines, etc.)  "Mack" said she could really use some more runners, so please consider doing this, or passing along the idea to people you think might enjoy it.  She is also looking for some volunteers.  If you are interested in either participating or volunteering, let me know.

Next week, there will be some Tough Mudder details and photos, but for this week, let me just congratulate Nicole, Meatloaf, and Ob on completing their first Mudder this past weekend!  You now know that there are physical and mental challenges involved and that it is a lot more than a road race.  (For good and for bad.)  And finally, a special commendation to Escalade for facing her fears and once again taking the leap off of the "Walk the Plank" obstacle. Way to face your fears and leap into the darkness!