Tomorrow is the official start of my running season!

Even though my first race is two weeks away, tomorrow I'll be doing a warm-up race with most, if not all, of my trail running friends.

In the fall of 2005 I did my first two 25K trail runs (Run for the Toad and Vulture Bait). It was an experience I'll never forget and it had more to do with the people that as opposed to the race itself. I had only done a few road races leading up to running in the trails but I quickly noticed the difference between the people running trails and the people running on the roads. I can sum it up in one word, "fun." These trail runners made the experience so much fun for me and they were always there to lend a helping hand when I needed it. They were so quick to adopt me as one of their own and never made me feel like I didn't belong. They would encourage me to continue running trails and how I should compete in their season series the following year.

In 2006 I did just that and ended up finishing 3rd in my age category which I was very proud of. Seeing the same people race after race was amazing and I was able to build some good relationships with many of them. Even though I rarely see most of them after the season is over, it will be amazing to see most of them tomorrow.

To get an idea of the relaxed atmosphere at these races, I'm posting the race details for tomorrow. Maybe I'll see some of you there as all are welcome!

Location: High Park Curling Club, 100 Indian Road, Toronto
Date: Saturday April 5, 2008
Distance(s): 28k start at 8:00, 10k/20k start at 11:00
ie, there are five distance options: 28k, 10k, 20k, 38k or 48k
Fee: Any combination of distance for $35.
Entry: Cash or cheque payable to the Ontario Ultra Series on the day of the event. If you are unable to attend on the 5th but would like a chance to win the grand prize simply mail your cheque to Sharon Zelinski, 643 Willard Ave, Toronto M6S 3S1.
Or enter online
Reception/Facilities at the club: Pizza will be available at 12:00. The club has a fully stocked bar (that opens, by law, at 11:00), change rooms, showers, pool table, couches and cable TV.
Course/Aid: Two out and backs.
>>The 8:00 start will head west on the waterfront trail and up the Humber to the Hurricane Hazel memorial for a total of 28k. Water will be placed at Raymore Park (just south of the memorial).
>>The 11:00 start will head east on the waterfront trail to the steel bridge at Cherry Street and Lake Shore Blvd. Water will be placed at the washrooms in Coronation Park (SE of Strachan & Lake Shore Blvd). The total out-and-back distance to the water is 10k and to Cherry St. is 20k.
Proceeds: 100% of all proceeds will be directed to the Ontario Ultra/Trail Series (OUS/OTS).
Grand Prize: There will be one grand prize. One person who has paid an entry to the fun run will be eligible for free entry to the following events in the 2008 season. The winner does not need to be present at the curling club during the draw.