Training Run — Sunday, May 9, 2004
Grouse Mountain to Lynn Return, 20 Km
Is it possible to describe a day of weather as absolutely perfect for running? I suppose it is because this weekend seemed to have just that day. Sunday (Mother’s Day) was cool, but not cold, breezy, but not windy, and overcast but with the sun peaking through on occasion. And again, the trail was relatively dry and actually quite vacant of other trail users. Wow, what a great day to be on the trails.
We had a large turnout of 47+ runners for our trip from Grouse to the Lynn Canyon area and back. We weren’t sure how much of the trail was going to be open in Lynn Canyon so I suggested that the runners go as far as they could on the race route and turn around or go elsewhere as they saw fit. As it turned out, we could run all the way to the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge as I recommended. However, it is very clear now the extent of the deforested area that has been created for the new LSCR filtration plant. And this should once and for all deal with the potential incorrect route that many a trainee has taken at the point where we should be turning a sharp right down to the Suspension Bridge. Now there is a chain link fence that cuts off the direct route to Lillooet Road. Perhaps that’s at least one positive aspect to the changes. Hmmmmm.
We had a nice turnout from our organizing committee for the run including Francine, Rod, Melissa and of course Glenn once again leading the runners. We are all very experienced on the trails and enjoy being helpful. And in case you’re not aware, our committee of eleven works together several months to see that your experience is a great one in training and on race day. And we love doing it!
It was nice to see people staying on track (mostly). It seems my warnings and a little trial and error paid some dividends this time. Most runners returned on time and in fine shape within the 3 to 4 hour range as planned. And then there was Glenn who couldn’t help himself but to keep going in preparation for his next truly large run coming up soon (yes, much longer than the Knee Knacker). I hope Glenn finally stopped and went home for some well deserved rest.
And now a few words about next week’s run. I am going to make a big deal about this because it is a very challenging run in more ways than one. But, as always, it is worth the heavy breathing and the view is great at the top …
We will be meeting at 8:00 am and running from the Grouse Mtn parking lot, over to Mountain Highway and then following the Old Grouse Mountain Highway gravel road to the very top. At that point you have a choice of descents: 1) The Skyride … bring your money, 2) The Grouse Grind, 3) The BCMC Trail, and 4) Back the way you came. What I want you to be aware of is that this can be a very chilly run by the time we reach the top. If you have any room for an extra shirt, a hat and some gloves, bring ‘em. The elevation gain is dramatic and if the weather is at all questionable you will want to cover up eventually. Last year everyone covered up as much as possible as we encountered winter like conditions. But it is a great route and an awesome run … if you like a good challenge that is.
I hope you’re enjoying yourselves so far. I know I am. And if you can find a way to make each run more perfect, go for it!
Craig Moore
trainingruns@kneeknacker.com
