Hey Aluecker, what a surprise that was for you!  Even without the au natural running surfaces it sounds like that would have been a tough course.  As it is, you're now a trail runner, and I hope you like it.

IMO trails are much more interesting than plain old paved courses.  The steep climbs, rough footing and obstacles keep one very present and alert.  Also, it's easier to forget about the clock and focus on the run itself.  There's really no comparing times on trail runs as every course is its own beast.  If you get into the trail running habit, you might find yourself getting stronger in all your running because you use more of your muscle groups and really excercise your core as you move along.

There are strategies to the trail, too, that you might learn to help you along a bit.

Anyway, good post - it definitely brought a smile to my face!

JosephTree I'm in the  valley forge area visiting family. Can you suggest a good 4 -6 mile loop. staying on rt 252 & Swedsford rd

Thanks

oshcat: sorry for the typ on your handle!  Didn't do a good job of QC before hitting send.

BRR is 208 miles. I ran the ultra division last year with 6 runners. This year we are trying for 10-12 runners. We have 8 so far.

I think I am going to like more runners because I will not hold back.

Ran my hills route tonight, just under 3 miles, 22:07. Will take it easy tomorrow, too, in anticipation of Wednesday's 5k. Also another local 5k Saturday, this one has two good hills. Have not registered yet, but likely will depending on the weather. I'm doing a lot better lately on the hills. The first race says the finish is at the Town Beach. If it's hot, my finish might be IN the town beach!!

I saw one of the couples who knows the family of Caleb Saturday night, but they didn't have any updates on his condition/treatments. Thanks to those who have put a few moments of their days thinking about Caleb's recovery. I'll get more news ASAP.

There have been so many posts here lately, it took me quite a while to get caught up. My PC is on the fritz, so I borrowed the wife's laptop to see how ervyone is doing.

Webpro.. Longest run ever -- Excellent!!!!

NHLA ... Most dependable, longest lasting runner on the road.

jdcarnes... 8 miles no running -- Great work and determination!!!!!!!

mkayc.... (paraphrasing the Rolling Stones)  Get your rah rahs out.   Great job with the personal best pace!!!!

MelodyLea... The recovery continues in a very nice way.

To all others.... Keep firing on both cylinders.

Linus: 8 firefighters were injured, 7 treated and released same day.  The other was being treated with hyperbaric at St. Marys...He is said to be recovering.  One civilian death.  It was a job well done by all companies involved.  The structure was built in the early 1900s...dangerous to say the least.  Thank you for the support.

Alfniner: Yes, training is a good workout, but I still miss the mental health benefits from running alone =) I am looking forward to running tomorrow! 

Melodylea: Thanks lady! You're so super supportive There were over 100 firefighters/EMTs that worked very hard in the heat!

Oshcat: I'm sure you saw the news footage...it was a bad one that's for sure.  Thank you for your support

I am so jealous of everyones awesome runs!  the distances that the lot of you run just amazes me!  Congrats to those setting PRs and longest distances.  YOU ROCK!

5 miles 42 min. Taking it easy. Donated blood yesterday. I loved the look on the Red Cross workers face when she took my pulse and BP. She said " You're just one happy little fellow are'nt you."

blister help for a noob?

running the trail sunday destroyed my right foot.  i am having trouble again with the pinky toe, but i can run through that (i'm going to try those toe caps - has anyone used those?). my bigger issue is the blister on the inside of my right heel.   it's hard to see, but here's a pic just for location purposes.  i put liquid bandage on it this morning hoping to toughen it up, but it is in a place where i am stepping on it with each step and it is pretty painful - it feels like a deep tissue bruise.

anyone have any advice or tips?  i really wanted to get in 3-4 runs this week (including a 4th of july 5k tomorrow), but right now i'm not sure how that will be possible.

tia!