Monday, March 22, 2010

Official Siesta

With nominal turnout and comment feedback, we have decided to call this run a wrap.  We've enjoyed the ski and run gatherings, but, until interest resurges, the effort doesn't seem to match participation.

Get out and enjoy all that Duluth has to offer, be it on the road or trails.  Run with Endurance!

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Hermantown Loop

When: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 @ 5:45 P.M.
Where: Small parking lot at intersection of Haines and Morris Thomas
Duration: 7 to 8 miles (moderate pace)
Weather: Mid 40's with chance of rain
Activity: Road Running...see below

Description:
We're continuing with the Grandma's Marathon training. For those of you looking for a guide, Grandma's provides one that we will be loosely following until race day, with some minor tweaks. This week we'll be doing a 7+ mile loop in Hermantown.

Please note - Although we'll be focusing on Grandma's Marathon training this spring, all runners are welcome to join us regardless of any plans to run Grandma's. As stated previously, if you are interested in these group runs, even if you think you would only come once a month, please submit a comment. If you have only been checking the blog, but never attended one of our Tuesday nights, please submit a comment. I moderate all comments and won't be publishing any of them (nor will I be offended by candid comments and group run critiques). Unless we get some comments back, we may cancel the group aspect of the run altogether.

Sunday, March 7, 2010

Keep on runnin'

Our regular Tuesday night run for Tuesday, March 9, is cancelled. 

We will resume our runs next week, but will likely make some changes due to the nominal turnout.  If you are interested in these group runs, even if you think you would only come once a month, please submit a comment.  If you have only been checking the blog, but never attended one of our Tuesday nights, please submit a comment.  I moderate all comments and won't be publishing any of them (nor will I be offended by candid comments and group run critiques).  Unless we get some comments back, we may cancel the group aspect of the run altogether. 

Thanks for checking in and keep on running!  The Grandma's Marathon intermediate training guide has us doing a lighter mileage this week, but make sure they are quality OUTSIDE runs while we retain this unbelievable weather.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

DRC - Lakewalk

When: Tuesday, March 2, 2010 @ 5:45 P.M.
Where: Meet at Duluth Running Company - Run the Lakewalk
Duration: 6 miles (moderate pace)
Weather: Upper 30's.
Activity: Road Running...see below

Description:
We now begin "Week 3" of Grandma's Marathon training. For those of you looking for a guide, Grandma's provides one that we will be loosely following until race day, with some minor tweaks. Generally, it notes the longest mid-week run on Wednesday evenings, which we will be swapping with Tuesday for our Fun Run gathering.

Please note - Although we'll be focusing on Grandma's Marathon training this spring, all runners are welcome to join us regardless of any plans to run Grandma's.

For those interested in a more "official" training group that meets several times each week, we encourage you to contact The Duluth Running Company.

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Winter Duathlon...kind of

When: Tuesday, February 23, 2010 @ 5:45 P.M.
Where: Lester Park - Upper Lot
Duration: ~45 min x 2
Weather: Low 20's.
Activity: (Tenative) Skate Skiing + Road Running...see below

** UPDATE **The most recent trail report, from Sunday, indicates surprisingly good conditions, so we will continue with the plan detailed below.  Look forward to seeing you at the upper lot!

Description:
We now begin "Week 2" of Grandma's Marathon training.  For those of you looking for a guide, Grandma's provides one that we will be loosely following until race day, with some minor tweaks. Generally, it notes the longest mid-week run on Wednesday evenings, which we will be swapping with Tuesday for our Fun Run gathering.  For example, this week lists Wednesday's run at 5 miles, so we'll be taking rounding up a five miler this Tuesday.

Preceding the run, however, we will continue to make the most of the snow.  In spite of the warm weekend, it appears we will get some light snow Monday and Tuesday, which should freshen up the trails.  Accordingly, we intend to take in roughly 2 loops of skate skiing.  PLEASE CHECK BACK TUESDAY, as we will post an update if these plans change due to poor condition reports.  We will do our best to start promptly at 5:45PM with the ski so help those interested in only the run.

At 6:35, we will rally again back at the bench at the entrance to the ski trail to pound out 5 miles on the road.  I'm not certain of the route, but it is likely to be an out and back. 

Feel free to come for the ski, for the run, or both.  All are welcome and we hope to see out Tuesday!

Sunday, February 14, 2010

More Loops at Lester

When: Tuesday, February 16, 2010 @ 5:45 P.M.
Where: Lester Park - Upper Lot
Duration: 60 - 90 minutes
Weather: Mid 20's.
Activity: Skate Skiing

Description:
While the "official" Grandma's Marathon training kicks off this Monday, we are going to to stick with another skate ski this week...enjoying skiing while the conditions hold.  Looking at the weather, the trails could be really nice but also may end up a bit icy.  Fresh snow may give way to warm weather come Tuesday, followed by a quick cool.  We'll just have to wait and see.

Group composition will dictate pace, distance, etc. Tuesday nights are intended to be a fun, social activity. To that end, we will most likely get some food and discuss marathon training schedule options.  All are welcome to attend, even if not training for a marathon!

Whether you've never come before or a regular, we hope to see you on the trails.

Monday, February 8, 2010

Lester Park - 5:45 *Update*

When: Tuesday, February 9, 2010 @ 5:45 P.M.
Where: Lester Park - Upper Lot
Duration: 60 - 90 minutes
Weather: Double digits, snow (forecast)
Activity: Skate Skiing (alternate activity: snowshoeing)

Description:

***UPDATE***
According to the skier's hotline, Lester will be groomed this morning (Tuesday) and is expected to be in the best condition of the year. We'll stick to Plan A.

Plan A - Ski
Plan B - The current forecast calls for snow. Depending on snow accumulation and grooming conditions, we may opt to snowshoe on the snowmobile or bike trails in Lester instead. Spare headlamps and snowshoes will be available.

If there are any changes, the blog will be updated by 2:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon.

As always, group composition will dictate pace, distance, etc. Tuesday nights are intended to be a fun, social activity.

Two other notes. First, if there is interest, we may grab some food immediately following the outing. Second, as spring draws near, we will be transforming this into a marathon training group in preparation for Grandma's Marathon. The group will be generally following the training schedule posted on Grandma's website.

Hope to see you Tuesday night!

Monday, February 1, 2010

Skating party

When: Tuesday, February 2, 2010 @ 5:30PM
Where: Lester Park - Upper Lot
Duration: 60 - 80 minutes
Weather: Single digits, light snow
Activity: Skate Skiing

Description:
It has been a while since we've used the Tuesday night for skiing.  Be aware, presently the conditions are hard packed with at least one small icy patch.  We will primarily stick to the lit trails, so headlamps are only required if you want to investigate the loops beyond.

Do not let speed inhibit you from attending.  Depending on the group composition, we may have a faster and a slower group. Tuesday nights are always intended to be a fun, social activity.

Two other notes.  First, if there is interest, we may grab some food immediately following the ski.  Second, as spring draws near, we will be transforming this into a marathon training group in preparation for Grandma's Marathon.  The group will be generally following the training schedule posted on Grandma's website. 

See you tomorrow night!

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Until next week

This week's 1/26/10 fun run (or ski) is cancelled.  With the generous snow we received over the last several days, we will almost assuredly be visiting Lester next week for skate skiing.  Be sure to get out and enjoy all the new white stuff on your own.

See you next week!

Monday, January 18, 2010

Running the Trails - Encore

When: Tuesday, January 19 @ 5:30PM
Where: Lester Park (lower lot - 61st Ave E and Superior St.)
Duration: 60 to 90 minutes
Weather: Mid 20's(forecast)

Required Gear:

•Trail shoes with good traction, Yak Trax, or Ice Bugs
•Headlamp (extras will be available)

Description: The snowmobile trails are just too nice to pass up right now. Factor in the mild temps and it's clear that it will be a great night to come out and join us for a good clean fun run.

Regulars and first-timers (+ guests) are all welcome.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Running the Trails

When: Tuesday, January 12 @ 5:30PM
Where: East Duluth Snowmobile Trailhead Lot
            (Martin and just NW of Vermillion)
Duration: 60 to 90 minutes
Weather: Low of 17F (NWS) - Heat Wave!
Required Gear:
  • Trail shoes with good traction, Yak Trax, or Ice Bugs
  • Headlamp (extras will be available)
Description:  Due to the marginal ski conditions reported recently on SkinnySki, we are going to continue with running trails this week.  Like last week, we are going to brave the snowmobile trails in and around the City limits.  The two main benefits of using these trails are 1) they are not overly technical and 2) they allow runners to run at least two abreast.  Come if you are looking for a fun run and good conversation. 

If there is interest afterwards, we will grab some grub afterwards to cool down and refuel! Regulars and first-timers (+ guests) are all welcome.

Monday, January 4, 2010

First Tuesday Night Run of 2010 - 6:00 P.M.

Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 @ 6:00 P.M.
Where: Piedmont Trail Parking Lot (map)
Duration: 60 to 90 minutes
Weather: Above zero!
Required Gear: Headlamp (extras will be on hand)
Suggested Gear: Trail shoes, yak trax

Description: The snowmobile trails should be in primo condition for running right now. We'll start at the Piedmont Trail parking lot and do an out an back. Distance will be based on composition of the group. Bring a friend! This is a no drop run.

For anyone interested, following the run we'll meet at Greg's house for some refueling and triathlon viewing (several races are queued up on the Tivo).

Please join us for the first outing of 2010!

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Off & On

This notice is a very belated.  Tonight's event is cancelled.  For those interested in a Thursday night run this week, feel free to call or post a comment.  If time allows, we may post something on here, but do not count on it.

Next week's regular fun run may change as well due to another scheduling conflict.  We will do a better job about posting an alternate time or giving more notice.  Following Christmas and New Year, the run day & time will stay solid.

Thanks and keep running!

Monday, November 23, 2009

Giddeyup Gobble Gallop

Time: Tuesday, November 24 @ 5:30PM
Where: Duluth Running Co.
Distance: 5k or 10k
Weather: 40's and sprinkles - perfect running weather:)
Recommended Gear:  Headlamp...more for safety than sight.

Description: Due to very wet trails this week, we decided we'd preview the Gobble Gallop course.  Hopefully traffic doesn't impinge on the pace too much at this time since it won't be a closed course until Thursday!  Once we've done the first loop, we may vary up the route a bit, but it will surely be an enjoyable time.  See you at DRC.

Monday, November 16, 2009

A Little Later

Date: Tuesday, November 17 @ 7PM  **NOTE TIME**
Where: Highland/Getchel Superior Hiking Trail Parking Area
{SHT section map} {map to parking area}
Distance: 6 - 8 miles
Weather: Mid to Low 40's
Required Gear: Heandlamp (extras will be on hand)

Description: Please note the later time for this week.  We are still working on the final details of this week's run...it will most likely be an out & back along the Superior Hiking Trail.  This section of the SHT provides some outstanding views of Duluth.  The trails are not overly technical and should be in great shape with the drier weather we've had as of late. 

We hope to see you on the trail.

Monday, November 9, 2009

On the Trail Again

Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 @ 5:30PM
Where: Piedmont Trail Parking Lot (map)
Distance: 4 or 8 miles (two loops for distance options)
Weather: Low 40's
Required Gear: Headlamp (extras will be on hand)
Suggested Gear: Trail shoes - be prepared for a little mud

Description: Based on the weekend runs, it seems that the trails are back in good running condition.  Piedmont hosts snowmobile, hiking, ski, and bike trails, which amount to great variety for runners.  We will primarily be sticking with the COGGS (bike) trails, but may hop on to the ski or Superior Hiking Trail for some of this run.

Broken record - friends and newcomers are always welcome.  A Honda Element will be the meeting spot.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Park & Run

Date: Tuesday, November 3, 2009 @ 5:30 PM

Meet Location: Piedmont Park & Ride Parking Lot (map)
Distance: 6-7 miles (2 loops with 1/2 distance option)
Weather: Low 40's, potential light rain or snow
Suggested Gear: Headlamp

I've lived around this area for the last 6 years, but many people don't know much about Piedmont.  In this run, we'll complete two 3 to 4 mile loops taking us into two different portions of Piedmont, both ending back at our meet location so those interested in an abbreviated run have that option. 
 
Two other notes:  First, we will be getting a bite to eat after the second loop for those that are interested in joining.  It won't be overly formal...probably something like Subway.  Second, the polls are open, so remember to vote!

Monday, October 26, 2009

Clear skies

Date: Tuesday, October 27, 2009 @ 5:30 PM
Meet Location: 26th Ave E Lakewalk Parking Lot (look for the black Honda Element)
Distance: 6 miles +/- with an optional extra loop
Weather: High 40's and no rain
Suggested Gear: Headlamp

With all of the rain over the last two weeks, the trails are saturated, so we'll be hitting the pavement this week.  We have used variations of this western Lakewalk route multiple times because it caters to multiple paces - if you are faster, you get to participate in ramp and step challenges while the rest of the pack catches up.  This will be an out and back to the lighthouse.  For those looking for a few extra miles, we will tack on a extra loop heading east, perhaps as far as the end of the new extension.

Two other points of interest.  First, we will run rain or shine.  If there is lightning or a blizzard, we will cancel and post a cancellation notice on the blog no later than noon on the day of the run.  Second, I am including a vote on the right section of the blog.  We are considering post-run activities to increase group fellowship opportunities, but only if there is sufficient interest.  Thanks!

Monday, October 19, 2009

Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2009 @ 5:30 PM
Meet Location: Lester Park - Lower Lot {Map}
Activity: Trail run
Distance: 6 miles +/-
Weather: Mid 40's, slight chance of rain
Suggested Gear: Headlamp and trail shoes

Last week, someone mentioned the newer trails down at Lester.  We are always up for ideas and trails we've never tromped, so this will be a fun explorative run in some ways.

With the late start, we ended up literally in the dark at last week's run.  Please bring a headlamp if you own one.  Nearly any store has them these days (Home Depot, Target, Gander Mountain), but I'd recommend stopping at the Duluth Running Co. to pick one up.  Clint and Andrea have always been super supportive of the running community and their shop is unparalleled for customer service.  We will bring a few extras if you aren't ready to invest in a headlamp of your own.

As always, friends, family, and newbies are always welcome.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Ridge Run

Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009 @ 5:30 PM

Meet Location: Hawk's Ridge on E Skyline Pkwy {Map} {Street View}
Activity: Trail run
Distance: 6 miles +/-
Weather: Low 40's

This will be an out & back run along the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) spur trail starting at Hawk's Ridge.  We'll continue along the main SHT until we reach Martin Rd, at which point we will turn around.  It made for a beautiful night run by headlamp last year, so I'm looking forward to taking in the daytime version.

If we fall short on mileage, we may tack on a section of the trail that heads toward Hartley.

See you Tuesday.  Remember, guests are always welcome!