This post is inspired by the plethora of tremendous and inspiring performances on the track and the roads that have taken place over the past 2 weeks: Dylan Wykes' 2:10:47 Olympic qualifying marathon, while Lanni Marchant and Krista DuChene both went sub-2:35 in the same event; Wesley Korir winning Boston in remarkably challenging conditions; Cam Levins churning out a :55 final lap to hit the Olympic 'A' standard in the 5000m and Sheila Reid coming within 4 seconds of her 'A' qualifier at Mt. Sac; my teammates Matt Loiselle, Rejean Chiasson and Megan Brown in their respective 10km and 5km races on the west coast, and many more. Spring is in the air and the racing season has begun!!
Going back a ways to a slightly less impressive, but still exciting event: Harry's Spring Run Off in High Park on the 7th was a blast (despite photographic evidence to the contrary: see below). This was my first foray into the Canada Running Series, which has a reputation for high energy, superb organization, and strong competition. The Run Off delivered on all counts, plus competitors and spectators enjoyed the added bonuses of gorgeous weather and early cherry blooms. My most memorable part of the race came at 5km, just after we made the turn off the of the main upper loop and began our descent down the steep, east facing hill that leads to Grenadier Pond. I remember vividly barrelling down the path, trying to focus on form—tuck in the arms, don't over-stride, let gravity and momentum carry you down comfortably—but all I could think about was how beautiful the sun looked sparkling through the blossom-laden cherry boughs that lined the road. It made for a thrilling paradox of tranquillity and exuberance, which I basked in for about 3 seconds before hitting the bottom of the hill, losing some of my momentum, and realizing that I still had 2.5km to race. One of the great things about road racing, however, is the aspect of mixed gender competition. I was so grateful for the support of a few keen men who I packed up with and who helped me through the toughest parts. The final hill was gruesome as expected, but the roar from the enthusiastic crowd made the last 400m push so worthwhile. Tarah McKay and I both broke the previous course record, although my competitor bested me by about 15 seconds, showing that her months of training in Kenya with her speedy hubby are certainly paying off! Overall an awesome experience, and a race that I hope to keep on the calendar in future years.
Something has happened since I returned from Florida two weeks ago. Maybe its the crisp, invigorating Ontario spring air; maybe its that the racing season is officially in full flight; maybe its the return to Toronto, my favourite city in the world. Whatever the reason, over the past few weeks I have rediscovered my complete and total addiction to running. I find myself finishing my morning run, and almost immediately fantasizing impatiently about my afternoon session. I even run in my dreams, and wake up with the restless desire to put on my shoes and get out the door. One of the benefits of the warmer weather and high mileage is that I am having so much fun exploring the city on my feet; Toronto has shrunk in size and intimidation (although never in grandeur or excitement) since I began measuring distances between destinations in miles and running minutes rather than subway stops or highway exits. Trying to manoeuvre along the sidewalks of Yonge or Spadina or Front requires courage, quick reaction time, and a reduced fear of contact with strangers. And while the Lakeshore and Beltline trails are by far the superior runner-friendly options, there is an exhilaration that accompanies a sprint past Yonge-Dundas Square or dodging stressed-out suits who stare at you with a mix of surprise and envy. Plus, its hard to justify coughing up the $3 subway fare when you're only a 20 minute run from work/physio/groceries.
Compounding my excitement about downtown running is the rapid approach of the Yonge St. 10Km taking place on Sunday (tomorrow!!) at 9am. This will be my debut not only at this event, but at the race distance more generally and I'm charged up for it! I write this as I finish my ice bath, and the hour for bed is now upon me. Tomorrow is calling for cool but clear conditions, a tail wind, and lots of excitement. I've often marvelled at the fact that I do a good deal of my track training at a stadium in the middle of the city, with a clear and impressive view of the CN Tower; barrelling down Yonge tomorrow with that same iconic Canadian tower in my sights is sure to make for a magical morning. To those of you racing this weekend, in Toronto or elsewhere: run fast, fun and fearless, my fine-footed friends!!!
