Athens Runner Girls hasn't blogged since October 2006. An end of blogging, an end of a marriage, an end to living in Athens, and finally, an end to running.

But, there were a few beginnings as well. A beginning to French, a beginning to backpacking, and most importantly, a beginning to a marriage.

There are also the things that have remained in my life, and that I hope will be there forever. Relationships that are like the waves of the sea in a sense: continual, never ending, never diminishing. Even if there is an ebb and flow, there is also a constancy, a stability to them.

Now maybe it is time to restart the running, and maybe the blog as well. I'm so sure about the blog, but I will at least make this post and consider putting my thoughts in writing again.

I have found myself looking into trail races and running forums for the first time in almost a year. I am feeling a motivation that I had lost. I am hoping that as I act on this initial desire that it will encourage more growth. I've missed running. Missed being outside, missed the feelings of capability and strength that I got through running, missed the excitement of planning a new race in a new place. Running isn't everything, it isn't even necessary for me to live happily-but it definitely enhanced my life. There has been nothing negative ever associated with running for me-only positive.

So, this may just be an informational post. Athens Runner Girls may finally end here. Or maybe she will become something a bit different than before. I'll have to think about that . And, we'll have to see where the running goes as well.

But at least I have begun again.

Palo Duro Canyon 20K

Well-October 21 is almost here, which means that Nat & I will be running our first 20K trail race. Down in my great home state of Texas...Palo Duro Canyon to be exact, up in the panhandle. My family used to camp and hike here when I was a kid. I loved it--but haven't laid eyes on Palo Duro in probably 28 years! That sounds like such a long time--I was probably 11 the last time I was there. I think at age 10 my then 2 year old brother, Captain, bit me and removed a half-dollar size amount of skin from my clavicle. Oh, the memories. Hopefully this trail run won't be quite that brutal.

The temperature should be mild (45-55) and dry! We talked to Red Spicer (the organizer--great name) this week and he said that while there are a few hills, there is not a lot of elevation gain/loss over the 12.5 mi. loop that we'll be doing. Since you can't run a trail in Athens without at least 2 significant hills, I am pretty confident that we'll do just fine. I do think that it is pretty funny that the 20k is the "Fun Run"--the main events are a 50 mile and 50k race. We are obviously at the low end of the food chain on this one. Nat and I are both a bit nervous-but I'm more excited than nervous (at least now, while I'm still in Ohio). Since I prefer trails to roads--I shouldn't be so nervous-but this is a first. My longest trail races prior to this have be 10Ks (Hocking Hills Indian Run (very hilly--2003, 2006) and the Ecothon at The Wilds (2003, 2004, 2005). If all goes well, next year will be a great year for trail racing! There are so many to try.

Nat is taking her new phone with photo capabilities--so maybe we'll get a few good shots during the race. Let's just hope my new jacket and tights come in before I leave!

The Pig Run-at the Columbus Jazz & Rib Fest

This is the third "running of the pigs" for a couple of the ARG's. How appropriate that a 5k race that ends with beer & ribs is the only race we've managed to make a tradition! This was the first ever 5k for both Devona and Erica. You'll notice that Erica does not have a number, but does have a camcorder. Was she actually a member of the press? She decided at the last minute to run as a bandit. Just hopped out of the car 2 minutes before the start and ran the race to keep Devona company and show her great spirit! Way to go Erica. I know you didn't get a shirt--but we'll make it up to you somehow.

We had great support for the run. Both Will and Tom made it up for the first time and Will's sister Julie and her son Ethan cheered us all on and had ribs & beer with us afterwards. After the run we meandered over to the Jazz & Rib fest where we met up with Lisa Salerno (and her parents---Jim didn't make it down until Saturday) and enjoyed a guilt free pig-out: literally.

Enjoy the pics. Devona & Erica ran the entire 3.1 miles--with quite a few hills and 85 degrees out. I managed to get my first medal ever-as 2nd in my age group. However, after looking at the groups I realized that MY age group was about the slowest age group out there! (I think that I would have had to run with the 60-64 group to get first in my class, or maybe it was the 70-74????). But still, a medal is a medal, and I'm thrilled to get my first-especially since I just recently (July 7) joined my new age group of 25-29.....or was it 30-34? 35-39? Oh, who's counting anyway... At my age I seem to be forgetting so many unimportant things...like my age!

After watching the race-we have gained a "convert". Tom decided to give running a try beginning this week. He is starting the "Ultimate 5k Training Plan" from our Athens Runner Girls group site. He ran Sunday and today-so give him a pat on the back when you next see him. I also found out recently that not only has Jeff Guess began running again-but both of his roomates (Brandon & Ryan) are running as well. I think that our group has really had an impact on people! They hear us talk about getting together and are inspired to do the same.

Sunday July 17 group run-walk

Benefits of walking & running vs. driving

1. save the ozone layer
2. less road rage
3. heart-friendly
4. save money on gas
5. spend time with your friends (at least on sundays at 4:10 pm!)
   

So--we're hoping to see you Sunday-in spite of the heat. A special gift for all of you who show up. Bring a water bottle!

Why Trails?

I started running as a quick way to get fit--easy, cheap and I could do it with or without anyone else. Just walk out the door, and I'm on my playing field. I came to love running when I ran my first trail--a 10k race in the Hocking Hills. I never knew running could be so great--and involve my mind as well as my feet!

When I'm on a trail I'm dodging, swerving, wind-milling my arms, looking at amazing scenery, climbing hills, going through spider webs, descending the same hills while feeling like a latin dancer with all my fancy footwork--I feel graceful and free (except when I trip over a root). When it's intense there is not even space to talk. My entire mind is focused on what I'm doing and how much I'm enjoying it. Although I've fallen on a trail, I've never gotten the type of shin/ankle/hip aches I can get while pounding the pavement. Every step is unique. My entire body is involved. Although some people complain about the lack of a "groove" or steady gait-- I relish the constant process of deciding where I'm going and picking my line-adapting to the terrain or the mud. I love trails in the fall, in the winter, in the rain, in the desert, in our beautiful Ohio hills. I feel at my most capable and athletic on trails. I love the solitude, the beauty, the smell of the honeysuckle or the moss. I love trails alone and with others. I guess I just love trails. That doesn't mean that I don't run roads-I actually cover more miles on the roads or bike path than I do trails...but my heart is with the woods. The forgiving dirt. Here is an excerpt from another trail runner that encapsulates my feelings:

The next time you go on a run take notice of what happens when your foot strikes the ground. What happens when the next foot strikes the asphalt? And the next? If you are like most people the same thing happens again and again. The repetitive nature of running on a road can bring about our least favorite word — INJURY!

Contrast that to a trail run. I am talking trail here — not a paved bike path. Each individual foot strike is just that — individual. Throw in some rocks, slanted trails, and gravity defying curves and you give your feet and legs a well deserved natural break.

The same goes for the rest of your body and mind. On the road your running form seldom changes except for interruptions — cars, intersections, and the occasional whatever that always seems to break your zombie like trance. Even your mind rarely gets much excitement on a road run. After a while you may find yourself thinking of everything you were trying to get away from when you went on your run in the first place — work, bills and all those nasty little thoughts that creep in unless you run so hard that you only think about stopping. This tedium and monotony can bring about another not so favorite word — BURNOUT!

On a trail you must lift your knees to get over the rocks, torque your body to keep from falling over on the slants, and swing your arms wildly to keep from flying off the curves. Most of the time you are thinking about only one thing — the trail! You rarely end up in a zombie trance without having to pick yourself up off the very trail you so rudely forgot to think about.

The workout a trail run gives you may leave you feeling beat up but it will never leave you feeling beat down. (excerpted from Gnarly Trails & Magic Rocks, Matt Carpenter)

2 Runner Girls Race Columbus 5K

Last weekend we had three people do actual races! Congratulate them when you see them. Jessica Muhn power-walked her first 5k out in Stewart and Natalie & Tammy both ran a 5k in Blendon Woods, one of the parks around Columbus.

This was Tammy's second 5K since beginning running this winter and she had an even better time than the first one. It was especially cool since Josh did the 5K with her (his first). Jeff G. rounded out the Columbus group and was gracious enough to not mind too much when Natalie, who had run the first 3 miles with him, took off at the end to beat him in the last 1/10th of a mile.

Afterwards they celebrated by consuming massive amounts of breakfast. Natalie (at least I think it was Natalie) took pictures of the breakfast to show how great it was, but pictures of breakfast are never nearly as good as the real thing, so I'll spare you the visuals.

One of the great things about participating in local races is that 99% of the people there are not there to win. They are just there to enjoy the festive atmosphere, see how fast they can actually go, get a t-shirt or beat their own performance from a past event. So even though it is technically a competition-it doesn't feel very competetive. If you've been thinking about signing up for a 5k--don't feel intimidated. You'll have a blast, especially if you can rope a friend into doing it with you. (you know, someone like me, maybe??? whaddya say?)

Jessica's first race

Jessica does her first 5k. Jessica power-walked a 5k out in Stewart on Saturday. She had a blast and wants to do another one. We are awaiting a picture of her in her t-shirt and race number and will post it soon. The other cool thing is that the entire family was out on Sunday for our group outing. Nolan, Michael and Matthew rode their bikes while Jessica and Cheryl walked with the group.

Runners

"The difference between a jogger and a runner is an entry blank."

G. Sheehan

Kids love to run too

Shonda and her 10 year old niece Jill run the Flying Pig 5k. Jill's first 5K-and she loved it. Ran a little, walked a little, sprinted at the end. Wore the snouts with pride. The bag on the table is all of the stuff Jill got for free at the race and the fitness expo afterwards. This was a great experience. There were so many kids at the 5k, which was sponsored by an after-school program called Girls CAN! Everyone got a medal and a t-shirt and a snout if they wanted!

More on the kids

Be a good parent--and run! Kids want to be like their parents and copy what they do--that means parents need to set the example by getting involved in physical activities. By concentrating on the positive aspects of exercise, like family participation and fun, exercising may lead to healthy lifestyles later in life."
-Carol Goodrow, RW kids running editor

I have loved seeing all the kids at our Sunday walk/runs! Not only are they having a good time and great association but they are building a love of exercise that will help keep them healthy in the future. It is so easy today for kids to be sedentary (like me playing on the computer!) and because of safety issues, children can't just roam the city or country quite like they used to. Keep bringing them!

We didn't get any pictures this week-we'll try again next week-but so far we've seen Olivia, Hannah, Parker, Kaylie and a few "big" kids out with their parents or siblings-Sarah, Amanda with Debbie and Josh with Tammy. Denise fits in there too-three generations out walking today.

What really gets me about the kids is their ability to find pleasure in just moving! I remember that-and get it back sometimes. But usually I am so focused on my goals and the need to exercise that I don't get the full benefit of the fun of it all. Going out with all of you guys as a group though really helps me get into the fun spirit. Thanks.

First Club Group Walk-Run

It was terrific to see so many of us out as a group today. We think that we had 18 people for the first 4:30 Sunday walk/run. What was great was that everyone seemed to find someone to be with on the walk: Nat & Tammy ran; Esther & Sandra walked & ran; Linda, Serena & Danielle walked really fast; Olivia & Hannah did some running and scootering; Shonda just mainly hung out and took pictures; Donna & Cheryl walked and left too early for the group picture (as did Nat); We had a BOY show up (thanks for the support Josh-you're welcome anytime!); Couldn't see what Sarah, Josh, Devona, Jennifer & Kristi did--but they look happy in the photo--wait, this just in, Sarah was seen both walking and running. It was very cool to be together with all of you. We really hope that we keep it up.

Exercise: You don't have time not to

A beautiful day-out on the bike path near the hospital. For anyone who missed it-there is still next week...and the next...and the next.

That's Esther running-the day after her "Walk for the Cure" 5k. She said there were a ton of people and it was totally non-competetive. Keep your eyes open for anthing similar in the future. There is a link on the right side of this blog for a walking series up in the Columbus area.

Serena, Danielle & Linda lookin' great on their way back in.

ps. you can click on any photo and see it full-sized.

Athens Runner Dogs

"What really helps motivate me to walk are my dogs, who are my best pals. They keep you honest about walking because when it's time to go, you can't disappoint those little faces." ~W. Malick

Athens Runner Spouse

Walking & Running aren't the only forms of exercise--but they do require less of an investment in silly clothing than does cycling. Tom looks happy enough in lycra as he trains for a 100 mile bike ride on Saturday.

Athens Runner Girls are pulling for you!

This just in: a small group of newbie Athens Runner Girls were so motivated by the kick-off party that they went directly from Esther's to Ping to work-out! We don't have their photo, but this picture demonstrates a benefit of joing ARG: That extra push (or pull) of your friends to help you get moving.

From Couch to 5K

Although Devona, Kristy and Jen signed up for the Couch to 5K--they're looking awfully attached to that couch. Kristy is not only on it, but appears to be under it as well.

We start 'em young

Whitney pays close attention at the inaugural meeting of the Athens Runner Girls. Age should never be a barrier to accomplishing your dreams

Kick-Off Party a Success!

Two new Athens Runner Girls (well, Alison is an Athens Walker Girl--but that's power-walker to you!) show up for the kick-off party at Esther's Sunday night. There was a great group and more that couldn't make it but want to start walking....or maybe even running.

Erica will be doing the "Couch to 5K" plan-once she finishes those cookies.

Welcome!

Welcome to the brand new blog for the soon to be established running club for the Athens Runner Girls (not its real name).

Please join us on April 30 at 4:30 pm on Esther's deck for our kick-off party! We'll have cocktails and appetizers and NO guys. We're going to talk about expectations, trepidations and all the ramifications of taking up a walk-run program. Don't worry--there is no commitment involved at this time. Just come to the party to check it all out. Then decide if you want to be part of it on any level. We can't wait to see you there!

We've started this blog hoping that this site will function as a notice board for who is running when and where and also a place for photos, encouragement and whatever else we'd like to do with it. You can post comments and once we figure out how to do it, we'll put a calendar on here and some other fun stuff. By the way, if any of you are proficient at blogging-let us know. This is our first time and we could use some help to make the blog really work for us.

Speaking of "us", we are known collectively as Runner Girl! but are known to friends and family as Esther, Shonda & Natalie. We've all been running for a while and are looking for friends to run with us! We like to walk, jog, run, race, talk and sometimes hang out (usually all at the same time)! We've all gotten a lot out of running and would love to run with more people.

So, hope to see you there. If you have any questions-call any of us or post a comment to the blog and we'll respond.

Can't wait to run with you!
Runner Girl!

Reason To Run #1: All the extra energy!