I’m not sure how it happened. I didn’t do many of the things that lead to a successful race. I had not done any race-specific training, no twelve-week plan with a well-timed taper. An unseasonably early cold snap resulted in me running less, yet enjoying it more. I decided to run the Pearl of the
For me the course was the star of this race. Ten miles of reclaimed railroad, five runners wide, no traffic and slightly downhill the entire distance. A quarter-mile tunnel, exposed rock and a few trestles crossing gorges and waterways provided enough variety to keep the scenery interesting throughout the run. While the fall foliage may
On a recent trip to Memphis, I stopped by The Hub Coffee to check e-mails and grab a caffeinated beverage. My friend Robbie at Dynamite Coffee in Cape Girardeau had told me about The Hub, and their location was between two of my destinations for the day. The location is the first thing that struck
To the countless volunteers who have made it possible for us to compete in running, cycling, swimming and multi-sport races this season, the caffeinated athlete extends a heartfelt “Thank you”. A Volunteer’s Work It’s no small feat to gather, guide and direct the legions of volunteers each event requires. Starters, timers, judges, course marshals,
I didn’t train for the City of Roses Half Marathon in Cape Girardeau. I put in some work and felt like I was in decent shape. But still, I had not trained for the distance or the course. I like to support the local running community and this race normally falls right after the Trail
Plan B can be a beautiful thing. I signed up for races on three successive weekends in September this year. I knew what I was doing, so I’m not complaining. Questioning my critical thinking skills a bit, but not complaining. Trail of Tears sprint triathlon followed by City of Roses Half Marathon then finish with
I don’t like Vegas. Oh, sure there are truly unique features of this desert locale that are curious, amazing or even wonderful. The surrounding geography is so much different from my norm, that I am intrigued, or even awed by the beauty and diversity of the creation. The amount and variety of entertainment options amazes
My friend Trevor Spencer over at Marathon Training Academy turned me on to a really nice set of trails in a state park and conservation area near my home. I had never run the General Watkins trails for several reasons. I don’t run trails very often. I like finishing a run near a shower. The
The Southeast Missouri Senior Games are held in Perryville each August. The city’s Parks & Recreation department does an excellent job of organizing and managing the multi-sport event. I participated in the basketball skills and swim meet portions on Friday, August 10. Basketball skills included shooting free throws and around the world. About a dozen
The Dutchman’s Dash has all the elements of a great event; impassioned organizers, a worthy cause, universal appeal, community support, and a fun atmosphere. Blaine and Morgan Swinford are the driving force behind the Dutchman’s Dash. They are both very quick to acknowledge and thank the host of volunteers who make the event possible. The
