It’s A Wonderful View From The Back

These guys rule!!

So, I got a little carried away while in Frankenmuth.  Which means, of course, I pulled into town late last night (or early this morning).  Can you really blame me – there was this guy playing an accordian that I had to listen to!

The drive was awesome, though.  The only issue that I ran into was this long procession, around Battle Creek, that really slowed traffic down.  A long line of Michigan Highway Motorcycle Patrol were leading 3 busses, which were then followed by a long line of State Patrol cars – all with flashing lights (even the busses).  Anyone know where Obama was, last night?  I’m guessing in Michigan.  They were going in the opposite direction towards Detroit, and a smaller procession was in front of me that got off in Kalamazoo.

Anyway, I pulled into Cedar Rapids around 3:00 AM ready to hit my bed – and I did.  But before that, I checked when registration for the Alliant 8K was.  That’s when I got the news – no day of race registration.  Ooops.

That was a not-so-great moment but decided to make the best of it.  I would still jump in but just wouldn’t be eligible for anything – didn’t figure on getting anything, anyway.  I was going to enjoy a view that I had never taken in a race before – from the back.

No worrying about how I would do.  No “I need to hit this pace.”  No working strategy.  I was just going to enjoy a morning run with great running atmosphere.  It seriously was one of the best events that I “participated” in.

During the race, I made sure to go around the water stations so the REAL participants could grab their cups.  Which brings me to one thing that I need to be sure to mention – the MANY great volunteers throughout the course.  You all were and are awesome!  A great event can only be so with incredible volunteers running the water stations, directing runners and walkers, and at the same time encouraging all – fast and not as fast.  Seriously, it takes a great individual to be willing to stand in one spot and say over and over, through a bull horn, ”8K straight ahead.  5K to the right.”

I also need to mention the MANY great people who didn’t participate but lined the streets and cheered everyone on!  Good to see you in your usual spot, Harvey.  By the way, it wasn’t all downhill from there – but thanks for the encouragement.

Great job to those who entertained along the way, as well.  When I heard a group of men singing, “Let me call you sweetheart…” I had to stop, turn back around and take their pic.  You guys were awesome!

To all of my fellow back-of-the-packers, great job!!  I’m sure some of you had set some goals that you may or may not have met.  The best thing is that you were out there trying.  Those in the front don’t get to see others going through their own trials and tribulations – those stories rarely get told, if at all.

I pulled off the course a couple of blocks from the finish with the clock approaching 36:00.  That was okay by me – thirty-six minutes of quality exercise.  And that marks the end to trip 2008.

So many great places and so many great faces!  There was no Grand Canyon or Sedona but I didn’t need them.  This was definitely a trip to remember.

I’ll take with me memories from places like Mount Airy, where I was treated like a fellow Tar Heel, and where both newspapers did a story on me.  On me?!  Thanks, Morgan and Lee!

I’ll take with me memories from places like DC whose running population knows a lot about solidarity, and from New York City – where they seemingly do not.

I’ll take with me memories of an unexpected free Phil Vassar concert, where I had my first Bologna Burger – and my last.

I’ll take with me memories from people like the gentleman working at the Toccoa Military Museum, who thought that I might be Airborne – I was honored.

I’ll take with me memories of places like the truck stop called “el Cheapo” that had the highest priced gas, that I saw, in Georgia.

I’ll definitely take with me the memory of making a toll booth cashier, in Florida, laugh hysterically by simply asking, “Do you ever have people complain about all the tolls?”  I wasn’t complaining – just curious.

While being interviewed for the Mount Airy Messenger, I was asked what I will do for 2009.  I don’t think that I gave Lee a clear answer – sorry, man.

I definitely want to do a trip 2009.  And if it happens, will likely be out west.  There’s a canyon in Northern Arizona that I need to run to the base and back. 

Haven’t quite decided the approach, yet.  There is a possibility that it will be a group venture – so, if you’re interested in signing up for 2 weeks of adventure in late June/early July of 2009, let me know.

Thanks, again, for reading (those that did).  And for those that didn’t – hope you’ll catch onto any future nonsense that I do.

For today’s highlighted charity, simply stay tuned to what is happening in Louisiana, at the moment.  There will surely be some needed help, again, down south.

Peace.

Chris

Song Of The Day:  “Troubadour” by George Strait

“Sometimes I feel like Jesse James, still trying to make a name.  Knowing nothing’s going to change what I am.”

A Crooked Bridge And Sunken Ships

The Crooked Bridge

The Pier

I could easily do a two week trip in Michigan, alone.  There are so many places to see and countless things to do.  One of my favorite places to visit is Frankenmuth, just outside of Saginaw.

Frankenmuth is a Bavarian town (which means lots of awesome food – and lederhosen) with a ton of atmosphere.  If you do not know anything about the town, you really should check it out and visit.  They are also home to the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s.

My plan was to do my run in Michigan’s Little Bavaria but after stopping by the Michigan Visitor’s Center, made another short notice decision.

Bay City is a little north of Frankenmuth and on the south end of Saginaw Bay.  Looking in the city guide I noticed that they have a loop trail that runs along the Saginaw River and around the outskirts of the city and back – nine miles, in all.

Driving into town, I looked for the first sign of a good parking spot.  I found it pretty quick – right alongside the Liberty Harbor Marina and in between a mini-golf course and a Hooter’s.

I already had my running stuff on except for my shoes.  So, I laced up again off I went.

The Rail Trail runs right into where I parked so it was easy to hook up.  And the trail is VERY well marked with painted directions on every corner – all you have to do is run straight until an arrow tells you to turn!

The first part is called the Riverwalk and is the most scenic.  Well lit with a lot of great things to see.  One of the coolest is the area of the sunken ships.

There’s no mistaking the spot when you come to it.  Rising out of the river are the remnants of old wooden ships.  I wanted to get more info on them but couldn’t find a visitor’s center and pretty much EVERTHING was closed, downtown – it’s Sunday, I guess.

I came to a fishing pier that juts out into the Saginaw River – of course, I ran that. 

Then I came to “the most crooked bridge in the world.”  A boardwalk, basically, that takes you over a part of the river – really cool.  Pretty much a “lover’s lane.”

Crossing over the river on the LaFayette bridge, I believe it was, the trail then started to go into residential Bay City.

The people in this town have a true luxury with this trail.  It literally runs through neighborhhoods and is kept up to perfection.

I came to the first water fountain so stopped.  Pressing the button, I heard a gurgling sound and then hot water shot out.  I’ve named this fountain “Old Faithful.”

Pressing on, I passed biker after biker and some passed me.  The bikers in this town don’t warn you when their going to pass – just a warning.

After another ten minutes or so I came across fountain number two.  It just did a trickling thing – I’ve named this one “Dick” as a tribute to NASCAR driver, Dick Trickle.

A biker came towards me and I noticed that he had one of those big Harpo Marx horns on his handle bars – he wouldn’t honk it for me.  It may just be for emergencies.

Moving on, I started to notice that this trail doesn’t have a lot of shade.  And then I came to fountain three – I passed.  But when I came to number four, I stopped.  It was kind of a trough that slanted down and with no end.  The water was nice and cool and poured down onto the ground – I’ve named this one “A Waste Of Good Water.”

As I passed mile eight, I came to two streets of apartment housing.  The first street had a strong burning rubber smell.  The second had a smoke odor that surely wasn’t from cigarettes.  It was sweet smelling, if you know what I mean.  It seems that these people wanted to spend the Labor Day Weekend doing a lot of giggling, having “creative” thoughts, and craving Ruffles.

I crossed over a draw bridge which marked mile 8.75 – then came the familiar owl with two big eyes sign.  I was finished.

An awesome paved trail.  Not much shade but very nice.  You do cross some streets (two busy) so bikers do need to watch out.

There is an offshoot from the loop that will take you to the bay – it’s maybe six miles one way.  I asked a local but he had no idea.

I changed and thought about eating – one guess where.  Yep, At Zehnder’s in Frankenmuth.  I have a craving for bratwurst, knackwurst, and whatever other wurst I can come across.  A great pre-race meal, huh?

And so it goes.  I’m heading back home as trip 2008 is coming to an end, crud.  See you at the start line!  I’ll be the one wearing the stinky Brooks – man their starting to wreak!

Make sure that you check out today’s highlighted charity!

Peace.

Chris

——

Charity Of The Day:

The floods of 2008 did not just affect the Cedar Rapids area, as you know.  Check out the Corridor Recovery website and see all the ways that they are helping those in need.

Road Song Of The Day:  “Blue Collar Night” by Brad Cotter

Whatever You Do, Stay Off The Field

My new, revised course brought me to Knoxville, Tennessee this morning.  I had a small feeling of unsatisfaction, from last year, not being able to get into Neyland Stadium.  So, I thought that I would try again. 

I parked at the same Greenway parking lot as I did in 2007.  It’s probably about three quarters of a mile from the stadium and figured that would be a good warm-up – if I can actually get in, that is.

My first few steps brought stiffness.  It’s not until the day after a beach run that you realize that you’ve used some muscles that have been sitting dormant, for a long while.

I slowly made my way along Neyland Drive as the stadium started to come into view. 

My plan was to first find a worker and ask if it would be alright to run some stairs.  I saw an open gate and a stadium ops guy – he said, “I don’t see anything wrong with that.  Just as long as you stay off the field.”  I had heard that the field is set up with motion detectors.  They take the “stay off the field” statement VERY seriously.

My next plan was to run stairs!

I consider Neyland to be pretty legendary, so when I walked out into the open, two things came over me.  I had this feeling of andrenaline knowing that some well known athletes had not only played on that grass, but probably ran the same steps that I would be.

The other thing that came to me was, “Man this place is huge!  This sure isn’t the UNI Dome.”  Nope, it sure is not the UNI Dome. 

Carrying a bottle of water in my left hand, I started down the first flight of steps, to the edge of the field (making sure not to lay a fingernail over that wall) and then turned around and ran up.  I would do that for all flights around the field.

I started with the south end zone and would work my way around, section by section.  The end zones were the hardest (more flights) to get through, so when I finished up with the north side, relief came over me.  The west side would surely be a breeze!

The last few flights of those steps could not have come any sooner!  The sun had been pounding on me for a little over an hour, and my shorts and shoes had been sweat soaked for some time.  You could certainly hear me coming from a long distance with my shorts swishing about, and my shoes sloshing with every step.

I jogged up those last sixty rows of double steps like with abandon.  I stumbled on a few ’cause they were uneven.  As I reached the top, I hopped to the top thinking, “Over!”  But what about the upper deck?  No way – not today.  I’ll save it for another time when the sun is not pounding so much. 

As a cool down – I walked that three quarters of a mile back to my car.  And a pleasant walk it was – along the Tennessee River with boats going back and forth, sending waves crashing against the riverside.  Yep, it was relaxing.  But man was that sun ever hot!

Another great visit to Knoxville.  Everyone friendly and helpful – seemed a little like a ghost town, though.  Where was everyone.  There’s a lot of construction so maybe that kept them away from the downtown area.  Just speculation.

Gotta get going.  I think you will like tomorrow’s last stop before CR.  Did I say last stop?  Wow, has the time ever flown by! 

Again, please check out today’s highlighted charity!!

Peace.

Chris

——

Charity Of The Day: 

Dealing with a disease as devastating as MS, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a very strong an important organization.  Please check out their website listed in the Organization links section and see how we can make a difference.

Road Song Of The Day:  “Adrenaline” by Gavin Rossdale

The Warmth Of The Sun

I had been looking forward to a day like today for some time now.  The beach run.

Cocoa Beach is probably my favorite beach town.  Not really sure why.  Maybe it’s because I know it the best.  Maybe because it’s a little bit less of a “spring break” town.  Or maybe it’s because there’s the huge Ron Jon’s!  Regardless, I arrived this morning with the sun shining and the sand calling.

If you do not stay at a hotel in town, the best place to park for the beach is Lori Wilson Park – it’s free.

It was low tide when I walked out onto the beach.  Which meant that there was going to be a wide path of hard packed sand, perfect for running on.  It’s soft but firm enough to support a good foot plant and toe off.

I started out heading north towards the pier (maybe a little more than two miles away).  It felt awkward, at first, since I hadn’t run barefooted in a while, but was great!  Waves were gently coming in, giving me a cool romp in the Atlantic waters.

About half way to the pier, I passed another runner who was doing the barefoot thing, as well.  He looked at me and said, “Don’t make me look too bad.”  Didn’t think that I was – sorry, dude.

After about fourteen minutes, I reached the pier where many a surfer were taming some bodacious waves.  That’s surfer lingo – I think.

My toes were starting to burn from the friction of the sand, so decided to head back and lace up the shoes.  That’s what I did.

As I set foot back onto the beach I decided to head in the other direction.  With the sound of waves to my left, and gulls and gals to my right – I was definitely running on a high.

In total, I did fifty minutes of running (soaking in the sights and sounds) and about an hour of walking (soaking in the sights and sounds).

As I got back to the park and sprayed the sand off my legs, I was bummed knowing that my near perfect running day was over.  And boy does my head feel like it’s been fried, broiled, sauteed, and grilled.  The next few showers should be interesting.

My plans were to head down to Key West, for tommorow’s run, and do this “Salute To Jimmy Buffett” thing.  Well, the weather looks a little iffy and had to make an executive decision (never a good idea for me).  I will be changing up my route a little, and start to head back north – but not before I stop by the happiest place on Earth!  I’ll try to get my pic taken with Mickey – or Goofy.

So, my destination for tommorow’s run – your guess is as good as mine!  Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri?  We’ll see.

Peace.

Chris

——

Charity Of The Day:

I think everyone can say that they have had a personal experience, at some time in their life, dealing with cancer of some form.  It took my grandmother from us, as well as her sister.  It took a childhood friend’s father.  And recently, it took a former neighbor of my family, Bill Grove.  The Gazette did a wonderful story on Bill, which he deserved. 

I remember him as someone who was always curious about my running.  Unfortunately, only now do I wish that I had spent more time in his barber chair learning about what he did best – fish.

Cancer takes too many special lives from us.  Please check out the American Cancer Society’s website listed in the Organizations link section.

 

Beach Songs Of The Day:

“The Coast Is Clear” by Scotty Emerick

“Be As You Are” by Kenny Chesney

“Tin Cup Chalice” by Jimmy Buffett

“Kaleohano” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

Where Carriages Take You To Rainbow Row

Carriage Rides Are A Great Way To See This Town

A Weak Shot Of Rainbow Row

The Pineapple Fountain

Ravenel Bridge – It’s Long

USS Yorktown

When I was checking into my hotel, last night, I asked the desk clerk what the weather was supposed by be like for today - he said, “Like it always is.  About 90 and humid, with storms in the afternoon.”  I could have guessed all three but maybe I was holding on to some glimmer of hope.  Oh, it was most definitely hot and humid on my run this morning but I survived.  

I had a couple of sources, here in Charleston, who gave me a good route to run.  Thanks John and Larry!

Starting at the Battery at White Point Garden, I hooked up with a raised sidewalk that runs along the water’s edge.  With the water on one side and incredibly beautiful homes on the other, this had the making of a great morning run.

Rainbow Row is a short stretch of homes, uniquely painted in bright, vibrant colors.  You’ll know when you’ve come to them.

After maybe a quarter mile on East Bay Street, I noticed that over one block to the right was a park, so I veered off course.

Waterfront Park is small but VERY nice!  Great shaded seating, a view of the water, a small pier, and two fountains (one shaped like a pineapple).  A wedding photo shoot was taking place as I ran through.  A beautiful setting, it was. 

And so I headed back on course.  My ultimate destination was the Arthur Ravenel Bridge.

I wasn’t quite sure how far I had to go to get to the Bridge – maybe 2.5 miles?  I ran on the right side of the rode and enjoyed the shade from the buildings.  I knew that when I reached the bridge, I would have none for a long time.

I could see the long entrance onto the bridge, up ahead, and then the sidewalk was split into two lanes.  One lane (a little wider than the other) was marked for bike traffic going both directions.  They other, smaller lane was marked for foot traffic only.  And I started up what was going to be a looong uphill climb on the Ravenel Bridge.

It was long – and beginning to get hot with the sun beating down on my right.  The high point of the bridge couldn’t come sooner.  A runner coming from the other direction gave me a solid wave and hello as he was motoring downhill – I envied him.

As I reached the top, I paused to soak in the view over the Cooper River and that’s when I noticed a couple of things.  One was the USS Yorktown.  It is anchored across the wide river from where I had just come from.  The other is that there was a decent breeze but has been at my back the whole time.  It should feel good on the trip back.

I headed down the “back side” of the bridge and decided to add a little more onto the run – I was going to get to the Yorktown.  It only looked maybe three quarters of a mile off the end of the bridge.

As I exited, I came to a much appreciated drinking fountain – I drank and drank and poured water over my head and drank some more.

I cut through the parking lot of a hotel towards the direction of the Yorktown.  I couldn’t stop thinking of how good that fountain was.

Arriving at the Yorktown, I noticed that there was a decent view of the bridge so took a pic.  Then noticed that you can’t get right up to the ship so did the best of what I could.  And I started back.  I was going to have another rendezvous with that drinking fountain – I did.

Getting back onto the bridge, I noticed that the back side seemed shorter but more steep.  Could just be me.  The runner that waved earlier passed by again – and again was going downhill.

I pushed uphill and soon came to the top and I pressed on, peering at the long downhill that was in front of me. 

The breeze felt good but it was still hot.  So hot that my camera was starting to do some funky stuff – clicking and popping.  My screen goes black, now, so have to use that tiny little view finder – it’s eye strainingly tiny.

I finally turned the corner as the on ramp came to an end.  All I had to do was bring it home that last 2.5 miles. 

I kept searching for and wanting to see that first landmark that I would recognize – Waterfront Park.  It had shade, a drinking fountain and meant that I was close to finishing.  My shoes were starting to slosh – I ran through a big puddle just for kicks.

The park appeared and I drank.  A chocolate lab came running towards me and I said, “Hey buddy!” – he just kept going.

Rainbow Row came as if heaven sent.  My car was parked just down and around the corner, across from The Battery.  My run was complete.

Charleston is a truly beautiful city, one that you need to spend more than a morning and an afternoon in.  I’ll definitely be back.  And next time will be sure to carry water on my run.

The people were 50/50 as far as friendliness.  Most of the runners and bikers greeted me.  I did receive a nose in the air/head flip to the side dis by one walker.

The best greetings that I received were from the MANY mothers pushing strollers.  I guess motherhood + recently born babies = happiness!  That’s the way it should be.

One other thing to note.  If you do come here, and you should, stop by The Charleston Tea Company, across from the Visitor Center.  I’ve had two smoothies while writing this – one lemon and one green apple.  The lemon was good and the green apple was awesome!

I could hang out for a while but need to press on.  Cocoa Beach, Florida is beckoning!  Ah, the sun and the sand – I hope the sun, anyway.

Make sure to check out today’s highlighted charity!

Peace.

Chris

——

Charity Of The Day:

A fixture for so many people in Cedar Rapids, the Cedar Rapids Downtown Public Library took a huge hit when the Cedar River flooded.  They’re going to reopen but need lots of help.

Please check out their website listed in the Flood Recovery link section.

 

Road Song Of The Day:  “Isabelle” by Blue Dogs

National D-Day Memorial

Wanted to make sure that I added this one.  After leaving Lynchburg, I stopped by the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, VA.  It really is a great place and is still a work in progress.  It is a non-profit memorial and can only be kept up through donations.  The pics that I have attached only give a little look at what it is like – you can only get the full feel of the memorial if you visit.  I’ve listed their website in the Organization links section.  Check it out!

Peace.

Chris

Three Miles Up and Three Miles Down

Camp Toccoa Memorial

Starting Point of Sink Trail

Col. Robert Sink Memorial Trail

Currahee Mountain

Chamber of Commerce/County and Toccoa Military Museums

Six miles - that’s what the men training at Camp Toccoa, Georgia had to be able to do.  Doesn’t sound like too big of a challenge for young, healthy, well-trained men, right?  It’s a definite challenge if they have to do those six miles on a mountain – three miles up and three miles down.

The 501st, 506th, 511th and 517th Parachute Infantry Regiments all trained at Camp Toccoa, prior to being deployed in WWII.  They all got to know Currahee Mountain, well.  And if they couldn’t finish all six miles, they were sent to W Company or “washed out” of the Paratroopers.

Made famous in Stephen Ambrose’s book “Band of Brothers” and later in the HBO series, Currahee became an intregal part in the history of Camp Toccoa.  A Cherokee term meaning “stands alone”, Currahee became a creed for the men who ran it, day in and day out.

I was excited for this morning’s run.  I would be running on hallowed ground.  In my little way, giving honor to those who ran it before me – those who would later be casualties, in one way or another, in WWII.

After receiving directions of where to find the Col. Robert Sink Memorial Trail, I drove the (about) six miles to where I would find a marker and Memorial, which are placed at the actual entrance to Camp Toccoa. 

These days, the camp has been covered up by two industries (one of which has closed down) and a forest of pines.  The only visable remnants left are a long white building (that may or may not be a mess structure) and fire hydrants that mark where camp streets were.

About two hundred yards down from that, a plaque marking the Sink Trail is placed where the trail begins. 

The trail itself is actually a road – Georgia red dirt mixed with rock but kept up.  The road was a little washed out today because of the huge amount of rain they got in the last couple of days, but runnable.

Like yesterday in Mount Airy, this morning brought rain.  It was a little annoying, at first, but how could I really complain!

Taking my first few strides, I hit the start button on my watch and headed forward, up the first incline of the trail.

The first mile went by without a problem as well as the second.  I was starting to think that this isn’t much of a mountain trail!  Then you hit that third mile.

At 2.25 - my legs and lungs started to burn.  At 2.50 - I said, “Good Lord.”  At 2.75 – I thought about stopping to walk but imagined Captain Sobel yelling in my ear.  So, I let out a hearty, “Hi-Yo Silver!”, and I finished – so I thought.

I came to a ledge of rock and boulders (all covered with graffiti) and figured that this must be the top, but I couldn’t find a marker.  The road went off to the right so I continued on. 

Winding again to the left, I came to a small building and a set of stairs.  I went up the stairs and saw a small trail going around fencing.  It just didn’t seem like it was a part of the trail so I went back down.  After talking with the Toccoa Chamber of Commerce, it was a part of the trail and I should have gone a few more yards.  Sobel would have been SO angry with me.

I ran it in 43 minutes but felt like a wash out.  They sell “I Ran Currahee” t-shirts at the visitor’s center but felt guilty about buying one.  I’ll be back to truly earn that shirt.

They now have a Currahee Mountain race, which has been growing in popularity.  Last year saw 300 runners/walkers and they are expecting about 500 for this year.  It runs in conjunction with the Currahee Military Weekend.  If interested, check it out at http://www.toccoahistory.com/index.htm .

I’m headed further south and tomorrow will be in Charleston, SC.  Am really excited ’cause I’ve heard some great things!

Make sure to check out today’s highlighted charity!!

Peace.

Chris

——

Charity Of The Day:

I don’t have to say how important it is to help those (and their families) who have paid the ultimate price for our country, in military service.

Please check out the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund and see what good work they are doing for many of our nation’s heroes.

 

Road Song Of The Day:  ”My Hero” by Foo Fighters

A Blue Bird Diner Special

The Ladies of The Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce – and Fife

First Baptist Church

Wally’s Filling Station

Downtown Mount Airy

The Squad Car

TV Land Statue

James A. Hadley House

I must have seen every episode of The Andy Griffith Show at least a hundred times.  And after all those viewings, I still laugh.  That’s great writing – and good, wholesome entertainment.

Andy Griffith got many of his Mayberry ideas from the place he grew up in and the area surrounding it – Mount Airy, North Carolina. 

When I was putting together the route for this trip, I knew that I needed to add a stop in North Carolina.  I thought of Charlotte and Chapel Hill, but what I really needed was a small town like Mayberry!  “Is there a Mayberry?”  I looked on the map and didn’t see one.  So, I did what everyone does, these days.  I Googled it.  What popped up was Mount Airy – it became a must stop!

I wasn’t sure of what I would see or what I would do.  I was going in without expectations and ended up coming away with fond memories.

The downtown district of Mount Airy certainly does have that “Mayberry” feel.  Yes, they do use well known aspects of the show throughout the town, but that’s understandable. 

Coming here, you will find a Blue Bird Diner, Floyd’s Barbershop, Wally’s Filling Station, Howard Sprague’s Office, and the squad car, just to name a few.  But most importantly, you will find a community that welcomes you with open arms.  I couldn’t feel more welcome.

How about my run?  The morning brought a soft, inviting drizzle of rain.  I didn’t mind it in the slightest.

I studied one of the siteseeing map signs that stand downtown.  Of course, I THOUGHT that I knew where I was headed – I really didn’t.  I just ran.

I headed out on Main Street and waved as the ladies from the Chamber of Commerce took my picture.  Haven’t seen it, yet - I think they’re holding it for blackmail purposes.  Just kidding, ladies   You’re the best – seriously!

The names of the streets that I took are a blur to me.  Like I said, I just ran.  Down 2 blocks and took a right.  Went down a couple blocks and came back up.  Took a right and then another right and then a left – that was the basic theme of my route. 

Like all stops that I know nothing about, I just wanted to have a look around and try to get a good run in.  A good run is what I did get.

I made several observations about the town but one thing is that it’s not all just “The Andy Griffith Show.”  There are some truly beautiful homes here, and TONS of churches!  Churches of every size, shape, and denomination are represented.  Some made of local granite.

I noticed the First Baptist Church last night when looking for a hotel.  It has many stained glass windows which were backlit and shining brilliantly in the night.  I wanted to make sure that I ran by there in the morning – and I was able to find it.

I noticed two men talking outside the church.  What was going to be a short question on how many stained glass windows there are, turned into a great 15 minute talk (run break) of what the main hall is being used for, now, and a little about the town itself.  They even invited me in to show me around, not knowing who I was.  Thanks, guys!  A great example of what kind of people live in Mount Airy.

I finished up my run with a pass by of a bed and breakfast called Maxwell House – I bet they have great coffee.  Then made a stop at the TV Land Statue in honor of The Andy Griffith Show.  And trotted back to my car – went but happy.

I had a great time in Mount Airy and will definitely be back.  And hopefully, I will meet Otis when I do.  I was told that he might be around in the afternoon, and I wondered if he might ride in on his cow – he didn’t.

If you’re looking for a last minute vacation destination, Mayberry Days are coming up in a few weeks!  And their fall festival follows in October.  You can check them out at http://www.visitmayberry.com/ .

Am excited about tomorrow’s stop – I’m running Currahee Mountain near Toccoa, GA!

Make sure to check out today’s highlighted charity!!

Peace.

Chris

——

Charity Of The Day:

So many helpless animals face abuse throughout this country.  The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is working to make the lives of those victims, positive.

Please check out the ASPCA’s website listed in the Organizations link section.  Everyone should have an orange band!

 

Road Song Of The Day:  “Mayberry” by Rascal Flatts

Vassarburg

Up 9th Street

Blackwater Creek

Blackwater Creek Trail

The Stairs (Old Court House, at top)

Down 9th Street

Lynchburg College

You hear his music, you see his videos, and you watch him perform (you should, if you haven’t).  What you may not know about recording artist Phil Vassar is in his earlier days, he was an athlete – good enough to go to James Madison University with a football/track scholarship.  When I heard his music, I became a fan.  When I found out that he was a track man, I became a bigger fan.

He wasn’t a distance or even a middle distance runner (hurdles and jumps, I believe) but that doesn’t matter – a track man is what he was and Lynchburg, Virginia is where his home track was.

Established in 1786, it’s understandable that Lynchburg has seen a lot of history.  It served as a vital link in the Confederate Army chain and for a few days, even served as the Confederate States Capital.  Many of the buildings in the Downtown Historic District date back to the Cival War and its easy to see.  A very cool place, indeed.

Much like Gettysburg, the town of Lynchburg has done a great job of preserving history and continues to do so with a revitalization program.  And also like Gettysburg, Lynchburg has a great running atmosphere!  It’s not hard to find a route.  It’s even easier to find a route with hills, for hills are around every bend in this town!  Downtown rises from the James River with sharp steepness.  I knew my run, this morning, was not going to be without incline.

Doing a little early research, I saw that Lynchburg has a trail system and that it ran close by downtown and the James River.  So, I parked and started to walk until I noticed a possible trailhead.  A trail map of the James River Heritage Trail System was found at the base of 9th Street – my new favorite street.

Beginning as the Riverwalk, a paved path connects with the Blackwater Creek Bicycle Trail.  From that point to one end (the Ed Page Entrance) would be a 3.75 mile run, one way.  Looked good to me! 

I was pretty solitary, at first, on the trail – then came a biker.  I waved and said hello and he just looked straight ahead with solid, unflinching concentration.  I thought, “Here we go.”  That thought was extinguished, quickly.

An observation was made.  The people of Lynchburg do not just say hello, they say it with a lot of exuberance!  I explained to one walker that I was doing this blog thing and wondered if she wouldn’t mind taking my picture.  Her response was, “Oh really?!  That’s awesome, awesome, awesome!!”  If you’re counting, that’s not one but three awesomes.  She was MORE than happy to take my picture.  And as I was running off said, “Have a wonderful day!”  The pic wasn’t great, though – it won’t be used.

I didn’t know if she was just the really happy type or if that was the norm here in Lynchburg – it’s pretty much the norm.  All along my run, I was greeted with smiles, good mornings, and waves. 

What added to it all was the gorgeous atmosphere along the trail was lots of trees and shade.  Dried leaves blanketed the ground on either side of the trail, which created an inviting aroma of fall.

As I came within a half mile of returning to my 9th Street beginning, I saw my biker friend, once again.  I waved and he looked straight ahead with solid, unflinching concentration.

Ending back at the trail map, I looked up 9th Street.  Wow, did it ever look steep!  And at the top was a long stairway leading up to the Old Court House Museum.  It looked very daunting but I had to do it. 

My pace wasn’t screaming fast, by any means, as I plodded my way up to the top.  The street intersections gave a short bit of level relief for my legs and before I knew it, I found myself running up stairs.  I didn’t perform a Rocky Balboa jog-in-place type dance, when I reached the top - I just went back down.

I passed two construction workers (who were sitting) and they looked at my sweat soaked shirt and asked, “How ya doin’?”  I replied with a, “I’m kinda tired.”  They laughed.

The Heritage Trail also goes far in the opposite direction.  Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to explore.  My legs didn’t mind.

I will be back to Lynchburg but I need a few days to spend.  What more can I say about it than, it’s awesome!  And what made this stop even better was the fact that I got to see Mr. Vassar in concert, last night!!  It added a little more driving and a 1:00 AM hotel check-in, but was worth it.  The Motor Mile Speedway in Radford, Virginia is really cool and was a great venue for a Vassar concert – a FREE Vassar concert, at that!

For all you Andy Griffith fans, you’re gonna love tomorrow’s destination - Mount Airy, NC.  It’s where Mayberry was born.

Be sure to check out today’s highlighted charity!!

Peace.

Chris

——

Charity Of The Day:

I think most of us take the basic things in life, for granted – like having food to eat, whenever we want it.  For many, that’s only a dream.

Feed The Children is working to ensure that children in America, as well as throughout the world, do not have to dream about getting a meal.  Please check out the Feed The Children website listed in the Organizations link section.

 

Road Song(s) Of The Day (I had a hard time choosing): 

“My Chevrolet” by Phil Vassar

“My Next Thirty Years” by Phil Vassar

“I Was” by Neal McCoy (but written by Phil Vassar)

“Prayer Of A Common Man” by Phil Vassar

 

Lots And Lots Of Rolling Hills

Not sure how I was going to feel for the WaWa 10 Miler at Hartwood (VA).  I was trying to get focused while driving the 20 minutes from my campground to Hartwood, but a yawning attack kept me from doing so.  No matter what, though, it was going to be a good workout.  A beautiful sunny morning run in the Virginia countryside – sounds great to me!

I pulled into the Curtis Memorial Park with 30-35 minutes before the race would start.  Less time than I like to have for the warm-up, but MUCH better than the 5 minutes that I had last year for the Summer Solstice 8K. 

My warm-up mostly consisted of jogging to registration, then running back to the car because I was $10 short for the registration fee, then running to the car, then to the Porta-O-Johnny (line too long), then to the pool restroom (line too long) – oh well. 

By the time I got to the start line, I was feeling really good!  Definitely up for the challenge of 10 miles. 

There was a little speech from the race director - who, by the way, ran in the race and won an award.  Should that really happen?  Anyway, he made a few announcements which included one on the prohibiting of headphone use.  “Anyone using headphones will be ineligible to receive awards.”  Laughter rang out from the crowd. 

The first mile went by pretty quick and I felt relaxed.  In fact, the first 5 miles felt that way.  I found myself at the midway point sitting right where I wanted, timewise – 30:35.  I noticed the hills but handled them fine.  Then came mile six.

I read the race information sheet, post-race, and it stated that the second half of the course is more uphill than the first half.  That would be an affirmative!!

Hill after hill came and went, and then again, and again.  The morning sun was getting hotter and hotter.  My pace – dropped severely.  The guy wearing yellow boxers with the red chili pepper print, flew by easily.  He was en fuego.  Actually, about 15 runners did the same.  The rest were dressed in the typical running attire, however.

I ended up having to walk through 2 of the last water stations – not just because I was struggling, but because I still haven’t mastered the art of drinking out of a cup while running.  It goes up my nose.

Mile nine came and I had had about enough of hills.  I didn’t count but I’m pretty sure there was a good 4 per mile average.  The last one came, of course, at the finish.  It wasn’t nearly the hardest but was the most demoralizing.

My goal was to get under 1:05:00.  The way the first half went, I thought for sure that I would shatter that.  I finished in 1:04:37 and was 25th overrall.  No award but did come away with a WaWa 10 Miler glass and t-shirt – both with a weird poem from somebody named Cheryl, talking about Wa-Wa and Ta-Ta and Ma-Ma.  I heard someone say, “The t-shirts are really nice, but unfortunately they put this (bleep) on the back.”  I couldn’t agree more.

It was a challenging race but was very well put together.  Chip timing, everyone gets either a glass or a medal, a lot of great volunteers, and it ended with a pool party!

I’ll still be in Virginia, tomorrow, with my next stop in Lynchburg – hometown of one of my favorite singer/songwriters, Phil Vassar.

Please make sure that you check out today’s highlighted charity.  It features a former Olympic Gold Medalist as its spokesman.

Peace.

Chris

——

Charity Of The Day:

Billy Mills is the only American to win an Olympic Gold Medal in the 10K.  He is also a Lakota Sioux and is the national spokesman for Running Strong For American Indian Youth. 

Running Strong For American Indian Youth is an organization striving to see that American Indian children have the kind of future they deserve.  So many simply do not have the opportunities that others can afford.  Please check out their website listed in the Organizations link section, and learn more about what they do and how we can help.

 

Road Song Of The Day:  “Vision Quest” by Brule’ and AIRO

(This song can easily be used in a video for the US Olympic Track Teams)