First-time 50k-er Tip 3: Scouting the Route

While the first tip dealt with the necessity of building walks into your run in training for an ultra, and the second addressed the looping shape of the course, this time, I was looking for an actual map of the 10k course which (when completed five consecutive times) would become the layout for next Saturday's(!) run.

I posted a query on the Rochester Running Page's community message board, asking if anyone had an idea as to what the actual route through Mendon Ponds Park was. (It has been noted elsewhere that though there are many local trail running, road running and cycling races in the park, most tend to have very different routes--Mendon is an awesome local training resource.)

Some thoughtful responses came in from many of the same folks who have been helpful in building my knowledge base with earlier assistance. “DJK” said:

”If you go to the Monroe County web site… there is a map--that will give you some idea, but basically just remember two words: rolling terrain…”

More sage advice came in from “Rick”:

…the course is essentially a combination of the BLUE trail (north part of course) and GREEN trail (south portion), is run clockwise, and has very minor variations at the south end. It starts by going up Canfield to pick up the BLUE where it jumps back into the woods to head south; toward the loop end, it also crosses Douglas Road just to the south of the cobblestone house, going around behind and then hugging the woods back to the start area.

Rick also offered to allow me to accompany he and another registrant today (Saturday), but due to a previous commitment I am unable to go.

With all the information, and support, I am hoping to perhaps walk the course (or at least enough of it to get a lay of the land) tomorrow with my son, who recently completed his first cross-country season. The best advice in the end may be DJK’s advice to simply “travel in the direction of (y)our fears.”

Now that’s making me nervous…

Breathe in, breathe out... YOU AND I ARE ALIVE!

NOTE: The picture above is taken from The Mendon 10k Trail Loop" phto essay on the Western New York Ultra Series page.