Nooks and Crannys
Before becoming an official South Wake AO, this Sunday morning meet up was an accountability run for Mookie and Deadbolt. They probably met on their own some, but then started inviting others. I was one of the early PAX to join them on Sunday mornings for this awesome sunrise run. So, when Mookie requested a Q, I jumped on it.
When I rolled into the parking lot and planted the flag, Master Shake and Forceps were already chatting it up. Seinfeld’s “Bro” episode was mentioned. Something about chafing.
Warm Up: With the temperature hovering about 30 degrees, we got busy quickly with SSH 25x. Then some right over lefts hammy stretches followed by some left over right hammy stretches. Full static squats, with feet flat on the ground. Arms out front, feel the stretch in your calves. Crumb Snatcher wandered freely as we warmed and prepared for the run. Sporting a new headlamp, she was easy to spot when it was time to roll.
The Workout: The goal of today’s run was to explore some of the details—the nooks and crannies, as pre-blasted—of the Bass Lake Loop, which is generally considered to be the most difficult part of the Holly Springs Half Marathon. We hopped on the greenway, following it around the softball fields and up to the flag poles, then across Grigsby and down the toward Bass Lake. We covered lots of non-HSHM topics on our journey.
Back to HSHM, we discussed slick or icy bridges, hills, and mulch. This greenway will likely be your fastest section. Go ahead and enjoy the speed. There’s not that much effort to gain some speed. This speed offsets the hill climbs you are about to do.
First hill is up to the picnic shelter on the far side of Bass Lake. I explained how to divide this hill into two pieces. The first climbing section levels off a bit at the bench. A short “flat” section to catch your breath. Then, a much longer slog to the top. On the down-hill, again, enjoy the speed. Little additional effort to run fast, but big payoff when offsetting those climbs. Forceps remembered HSHM performances past.
Next hill is from Bass Lake, up through Sugg Farm. Most importantly is to watch your footing. There are lots of roots and plenty of loose rocks. Otherwise, it’s just digging. Shorten your stroke and don’t look any farther then 10 feet or so on front of you. The climb levels off before you reach the opening to the pasture. More steady up hill ’til you reach the cedar tree right before the entrance gate. Once you reach this point, you’ve completed the climb out of Sugg Farm!
Cruise ’til you get to Womble.
Arrived back at the start. Forceps rolled on to get 11 miles today. Master Shake and I chatted for a minute, then headed out.
Mary: none
Announcements: none
T-Claps (Recognition): Nice work fellas!
Prayer: Keep PAX healthy and strong.