Sunday, June 26, 2016

March Point 10k

I made it out to the March Point 10k again this weekend. This is a favorite Skagit County 10k. I think this was year 20. Thank you to Tesoro and all the volunteers.

We actually went to the Ms-Cardinals game down at SafeCo the night before, which ended with a spectacular walk off homer by Adam Lind. So, for the second week in a row, I did a Saturday morning event after a night down in Seattle.

I ran the first three miles or so but tightened up after that, and had to walk and run. Eventually, the finish line came up.  It was terrific to see many local friends. The race was delayed by a half hour due to a shutdown on I-5.

There must be a rookery of herons near the shoreline that we ran, as I saw a dozen or so perched near each other.  A few eagles were hanging out on pier posts.

July should bring more outdoor adventures. I have a few good hikes in mind, and a few short races on the horizon. Just keeping at it.


Sunday, June 19, 2016

Berry Dairy Days Half Marathon

The 2016 Berry Dairy Days Half Marathon is in the books.  For me, the back of the book, but happy to have got out there again.  No pictures this year, but here is a link to pics from a few years back. The course remains the same. (Yes, that's a Zep nod! I got the Led out.)

Lots of rain this year.  I ran and walked in the OR Seattle Sombrero and a Patagonia Houdini. The rain wasn't too cold--it is June--but it vacillated between banana boat rain and aggressive drizzle. Rain in the NW is like paint colors--endless varieties.

The course starts in downtown Burlington, heads out of town by berry fields and rural houses, and then travels for four or five miles on the Skagit River dike, with great views of the river and the valley. The race finishes in downtown Burlington on the Berry Dairy Days parade route. Flat, with a mix of road, gravel, and paths. The race is small, affordable, and near to home. One of my faves.

I went to Seattle the night before for the Crocodile's 25th Anniversary show, and didn't get home until 2:30. Rolled out of bed at 6:30, and did the early start. I ran some, walked some, and finished slow. It was a good workout and I really enjoyed the time outside in the rain. Also, good to see Stan and Jon. Kevin, Keefer, and all the volunteers do a great job with this event. I'll be back.