Running on the pavement can be so flat, boring, and often lacks the excitement that comes from running on trails. After all, a good trail run will have you skipping over tree roots, ducking under logs, teetering over rocks, and jumping over objects that Mother Nature may have placed in the path. Trail running is certainly not for the weak ankle or tender knee but running along a trail through the woods offers the runner a connection with nature and the outdoors that a run along the local sidewalk or street could offer.
Local trail nerds (really, they refer to themselves as “trail nerds”) had their annual Summer Intro Run at Wyandotte County Lake Park on Saturday, June 19. Trail nerds run among area trails throughout the year but this event was unique in that it emphasized runners testing the mud and dirt trails for the first time – including a number of younger runners that shared the same enthusiasm as their moms and dads that ran alongside them. A record number of runners were in attendance (over 160) as they braved humid conditions … but as their motto goes, “All whiners will be buried in shallow, unmarked graves.” Thus, runners said nothing of the heat, humidity, or occasional tick.
Volunteers spent time during the week preparing the trail with chainsaws and weed trimmers in hand. But what fun would it be if all the logs and branches were removed? Running down (and up) trails such as these will typically allow runners to run only single file. Thus, when one slows down they all slow down. But what better motivation to get moving than to be the one in front of and leading a group? While a good run like the Summer Intro Run is all for fun, there are those that take their race time seriously. They’re easy to spot - they are the ones that are like a race driver that carefully waits for his moment, perhaps a momentary wide spot in the trail, to make his/her move and break away from the pack. Those particular runners are also the ones to finish first and have the first chance to rest their feet and sip some Gatorade.
Trail running isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a road warrior that’s used to pounding the pavement, break out of the rut and give trail running a spin. Just watch your step when you do.
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