Distance: 6.4 miles
Effort Level: Hard
In a few words: Really, really long hill
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This go around we joined a Duluth Running Co group that is training for Grandma's marathon. Our group is a bit less formal and membership can ebb and flow as schedules change for individuals, where as the crew traditionally meets 2 to 3 times per week. This was a low turnout week for them (1 person beyond Clint, the replacement leader) as their leader had post-wedding obligations to attend.
Make sure to check out the interactive map at the bottom of this post as the elevation change was pretty remarkable. From the time we left the Lester Park lower parking area until we finally reached the climaxing hill was a bit over 3.5 miles. Are you kidding me? If that weren't enough, about the majority of that distance was done on loose snow! With my nearly last breath, I attempted to joke by saying, "Well, there is 5 of us, so that means we have to do that hill 4 more times per our tradition." It probably goes without saying my joke landed on deaf ears (or maybe we were all huffing to hard to hear the comment).
All that said, it was a beautiful route with no traffic for about 70% due to the closed route during this season. Also, as Chris mentioned as we neared the top of the climb, the view at the top was stellar.
In closing, for any of you contemplating whether to come, realize this was a bit out of the norm. Starting next Tuesday, we will be mapping out routes that will allow participants to do the full distance or half the distance. The race season will be ramping up in the weeks ahead, so make sure to join us to get some miles in while in good company.
Stay healthy, get out there, and "Run with Endurance." ~H12
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