Training Log Archive: Funderstormin

Couldn't resist trying to find a race while we were down here. The only option at the time was the Manatee River Run - a 5 mile "trail" race in Emerson Point Park. It was less than an hour from where we were staying and today had the nicest forecast of the entire time we had been here.

For $25, we got a decent technical shirt, chip timing, and more post-race food and drink choices than I've ever seen. Course was uninspiring but a beautiful day and a great way to kick off New Year's Eve.

Let the record state though: I would much rather deal with the discomfort of a 5+ hour ultra than a flat 5 miler!

C • I agree 2

Andrew and I headed north of Tampa today for a trail run at Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve, home of one of the Dances with Dirt ultras. We parked at the West entrance and strung together a loop of double and singletrack. The doubletrack was painfully sandy but the singletrack was pure bliss - we both loved it. Didn't have a map with us but took a picture of one with my phone which came in handy on several occasions. Loved the terrain which was very different from yesterday's trek and the fact that there was only about 20 feet of elevation change (hey, I've made my opinions on hills and mountains clear, and besides, it was a vacation run). Awesome, awesome run.

Gorgeous hike through Hillsborough River State Park in the morning. We had hoped this would be a run but we both came down with a nasty stomach flu yesterday en route from Detroit to Tampa - very likely caught from one our disease-infected munchkin nieces or nephews over the holidays! We both agreed that we weren't up for much but that the fresh air would do us good. Really cool terrain to hike through!

Nice trail run with my sister, who kicked my ass on all the hills!