Mill Creek Park

For the second Sunday in a row, I ran a big YUT-C loop around Mill Creek Park. The loop is 11.75 miles and has plenty of hills throughout. I got up early today and started my run again at the wetlands at 6:30.

I've always thought it was so peaceful waking up before everyone else, before the sun rises and starting a run. The only thing breaking the silence is a few birds. It's also cool to see the different colors as the sun rises. I like bringing my camera because the scenery never looks quite the same each time.

I started out counter-clockwise around the lakes towards Shields Rd. When I got to the Monkey Hills, I saw someone running them. There's a good chance whenever I see someone that it's a NEO Trail member. My guess was Dan Kuzma and for the second weekend in a row it was him, doing hill repeats. He's going to be tough as nails if he keeps those workouts up. We talked some then continued on with our runs.

I felt great on my run today. My breathing is still a little heavy at times, but I'm pretty happy with my progress so far. I have to continue being careful not to come back too hard, but I'm getting excited for my fall race(s).

As far as races I have in mind... I'm looking at running one or more of the following: Pikes Peak Ascent, Columbus Marathon and Akron half or full marathon. The plan is to get in killer shape and tear it up. I would also like to get a new PR in the marathon (under 3:05) since they lowered the Boston qualifying times by 5 minutes.