real first, virtual second

The Real
6:00am
Santiago Truck Trail
10 miles

Today was my first run since Saturday–a recovery run. I went out with fellow Mt. D survivors, Greg and Alexa, as well as Sue and Kris (Addy's dad). I wanted to run some moderate hills today, and I figure about 10 miles on the Santiago Trail would do the trick.

We hoofed it up to the flag pole, then went beyond it for another mile and a half to the 5-mile mark before turning back. It didn't take long for the heat to make its presence known to us. Temps climbed up to the 70s before 7am and with mostly no cover except for the side of the mountain at times (it depends on which side the trail is on), it got pretty darn hot.

My legs just didn't feel like they were completely there today. Oh well. This would be a good work out for running on tired legs, I thought. I'll need that to prepare for Firetrails in two months. Ten long miles later, I was glad this "recovery" run was over.

The Virtual
1:30pm
Crystal Cove State Beach
6 miles

Week 4 of the virtually synced training run was set for today at 1:30pm. Our contingent from Manila was under siege by a typhoon so most of them opted to stay curled up under their blankets in bed. Steph in San Diego had to sit this one out due to aching feet. So it was at least me, Gretchen (crew and support), Hitme, Ben, and TRF.

Since my legs were still feeling the effects of the earlier run, I decided to take it easy for this second one. I also decided to change to a more scenic route, Crystal Cove State Beach. I was just gonna go out for about 4 miles or so, but wasn't paying too much attention and ended up going for the complete 6 anyway. Most of the run was on compact, wet sand, probably one of my favorite surfaces to run on. My right heel was a bit sore, possibly from the downhill portion earlier, so I welcomed the carpeted feel underneath me.

Here are several photos my camera crew took. To my virtual training buds, wish you were here.

Onward to the beach which is about 50 feet below.

Had to go through this rocky portion to get to the fun stuff.

The FUN STUFF! Running on this was just pure nirvana for my feet. Next time, I'm leaving my shoes and running barefoot.

Trying to run as close to the water's edge as possible without getting water in my shoes.

Hmmm, I wonder if I can turn this into trail food? Kelp, after all, is a rich source of natural vitamins and minerals.

Making a quick stop for a bit of tidepooling.

These were cottages that people actually lived in for about 20 years or so until their leases on state property ran out. The State Park decided not to renew their leases, so the residents were forced to move out. Some of these have been completely rebuilt or renovated and available as beach front rentals while others, like this one are in disrepair.

The view from the cottages.

Almost done with the run.

Not a bad way to spend a Wednesday afternoon.

During the run, I got really hungry (I decided to forego the pre-run fried chicken this time), so I went for some serious protein-rich recovery food when I got done–the 2lb.+ monstrosity known as "Mr. Serious," the signature burrito of a local taqueria. I put my Garmin in for scale.

I don't know if it was just me, but my energy level was pretty low again. I guess I was just tired. Well, see you all next time. I still have 3/4 left of Mr. Serious to work on.