Trail Racing - Getting Down and Dirty!

I have been running on some trails and I find that it feels so different than running on pavement. There is something about being outside with the trees and the insects and the just zen-ness of nature that makes me feel so much more noble than pounding some asphalt.

So far I've been running mostly only on pretty nice trails - nothing too technical. Just your average dirt trail, roots, rocks, and every once in a while an obstacle. One of the reason I moved to the DC area from Southern California was because of how green it is - the sheer amount of green everywhere you looked made me feel more peaceful. Of course when the humidity is so thick you can barely see the trees I rethink that decision.

I'm also drawing inspiration for trail running from a colleague of mine who runs Ultra's. Although my furthest run is the half marathon at this point who is to say where I end up? The trails engage me more physically than the road - and I find myself not as able to zone out. I'm more a part of my surroundings, leaving a footprint. No music, just my breath, the hum of wildlife (hopefully no roars!) and the air.

For 2014 the following races are on my schedule and I'm really looking forward to running more trails!

North Face Endurance Challenge - 10K June 2014
Dirty Damsel Trail Race 1/2 Marathon October 2014
Seasons Trail Race Series 2014/2015 10K