I've spent most of the spring getting ready for a Trail Ultra-Marathon this fall. Along the way I've discovered some great trails around Lincoln that I never knew existed. I can't believe it took me 7 years to run in Wilderness Park! I've also sought out local and regional trail races in order to specifically train for the challenge I'll face in the fall. Two weeks ago, I ran the Ni-Bthaska-Ke Trail 12 K at Platte River State Park and today I ran a trail 1/2 marathon outside Lawrence, KS as part of the "Free State Trail Runs." The Ni-Bthaska-Ke run was the hardest race I've ever run and the one today wasn't much easier. Along the way, I've noticed a few things about trail running, which is distinctly different from road running.
The chance of breaking a bone trail running is pretty good.
There is a little more B.O. on a trail run.
People talk about new bands that remind them of the Grateful Dead.
The aid stations are awesome.
There is nearly always good beer and music I recognize at the finish.
Most runners have tattoos.
Nobody runs in lululemon.
Finish times mean very little.
Listening to music is frowned upon if not frankly against the rules.
Nobody talks about Boston.
Trail running is a lot more fun.
I'll have more on my trail running adventures in the coming weeks and months!
