What a beautiful day as 30 runners gathered in the Cleveland dam parking lot. The runners were treated to some 'unexpected' power treats treats right after the trail briefing. Everyone was guessing where the snow would start... some said the 'Chute' some said the X-country ski trails... One thing that I did point out was STICK TOGETHER once you hit the X-country ski area. The left turn to the BP is tricky. Our plan was whoever was leading the charge and found the trail would put some branches or markers on the trail to indicate the turn. It worked! We placed the bamboo poles with flags pointing to the trail. Way to go guys! We had a bit of navigational challenges but no one (that I know of) got off course.
We estimated that the climb would take 2 hours with the snow and we were pretty much 'spot-on'. Water was available at Cypress and everyone gathered in various groups and departed back down the trail and some turned back earlier. The descent was Awesome! Rippin' it up with Brucie and Chris? Totally anaerobic, cool! Time down was about 1:15 to 1:25.
If that wasn't enough Bruce and I wanted to try Nancy Greene way just to see what it feels like, so up to the base of Grouse and down for a nice long run.
Congratulations to everyone who ran a solid run and thanks for not complaining when we couldn't find the trail! I've got it nailed now, it just takes a few times in the snow.
Thanks for a great run.
Cheers,
P.S. Don't forget we meet at 7:00 AM Saturday morning for the 'Last 1/2' in Deep Cove and carpool to Cleveland dam. And Sunday is the Trail Work Party for those of you who can get away, we really appreciate it.