View from my apartment today's winter wonderland that is Banff.
Skiing Cascade Fireroad
Being a runner in Banff has it's benefits for sure - living at 1400m sure is awesome altitude training, and the network of stunningly beautiful trails in my backyard ain't half bad either. But I spend a good portion of my year hauling myself out of the door in the cold and snow and just dreaming of green trails and temperatures above zero. Yep, I like to ski - but in my heart of hearts I'm a runner who just wants to run on snow and ice free roads and trails.
I love snow (on skis or snowshoes, but not so much in running shoes)!
But I'm trying to make the most of the weather and I today I made it out cross country skiing with 2 friends, probably the first time I've cross country skied in a good few years. My technique is bad but it was so much fun just to enjoy the snow as it was coming down all day and was truly a winter wonderland. That said, of course my outing also had a slightly ulterior 'training' motive. Being an endurance addict I ignored all better judgement and signed up for a cross country ski loppet this past week. Race day is nicely soon enough - Jan 22nd - time to get some skis on and practice a bit, yet not too far away that I'll have time to get overly concerned with the details, and done before I need to really start being concerned too much about long runs (important given I now work a 48hrs/ 6 day work week, so have one day a week to get long runs in).
Oh, did I mention that the loppet is from Lake Louise to Banff. It's only 72km :) It'll be an experience to say the least I'm sure. Bring on the snow!
Now that sounds like an adventure--enjoy the training!
ReplyDeleteYou should try Canadian Birkebeiner!!
ReplyDeleteBeen following your blog for a few months since hearing (of) you on Marathon Talk. Loved this post today. Only visited Banff & Lakes Louise in the summer so seeing these pictures is a treat. I hear your running frustrations but i'm rather jealous of your wonderland white Christmas, especially now that last week's cold snap here has given way to the prospect of a mild and damp Christmas. Keep blogging!
ReplyDeleteI just read your race report from the 100 miler - incredible! What a great read. I finished my first 100 in November and I'm amazed how fast you were able to run.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to following more of your running adventures!
Oh, gaaaad! You signed up for THE loppet? Solo? Look for me and Keith shovelling snow over the road crossing in the wee hours of the morning, we'll be cheerleading and shovelling. :)
ReplyDeleteleslie - I have indeed lost my marbles!! I am excited/ nervous and have no pretentious that I will be anything other than back of the pack and trying to chase cut offs! Will be great to see you and Keith out there.
ReplyDeleteCory, glad you like the blog and congrats on your 100!