Running with "The Rocket" Rick Rodriguez

Angel Island 'Hark the Herald 12k December 10, 2011 Commentary by Rick Rodriguez

Commentary By Rick Rodriguez

Saturday (12/10/11), I once again ran the Hark the Herald 12k on Angel Island organized by Envirosports.  It's a run to the top of Angel Island and back down.  In fact, it takes a bit of an effort to get to the start line and get the run started but in the end it's all worth it.  This year's race featured a whole lot more runners that my previous ventures to the Angel Island and this race!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In order to get to Angel Island, the closest ferry is from Tiburon in Marin County.  Catching the 1st Ferry by 10am got me there in time for the start and after the last of three ferries of runners arrived we were set to go.

Envirosports events are different in that there is no award for placing or medals for runners rather the event's focus is to appreciate the beauty of nature and the surroundings.  This event was no different in that aspect: Angel Island was truly at its finest that day!  Another unique aspect of these events is that race is started with a singing of America the Beautiful.  That's a very special song and it is kind of neat singing with strangers in nature throughout the San Francisco Bay Area!

Needless to say the hard part is the start all the way to the top of the Island.  What is interesting is that on that day, I never seemed to arrive because while I felt I had reached the top several times; I had to keep going just a little more to reach the top of Mt. Livermore.  Perhaps, it was my desire to get there but I managed it well. And, before I knew it I was on my way back down.  It was a fast pace descent and with only a couple of tweaks of ankles on the way down; I managed to finish strong.  The race was concluded quickly. It was an awesome experience and I really enjoyed it this time taking plenty of pictures of the beautiful San Francisco Bay Area. The photograph here is not of a ship cruising through the Bay pierced by rays of sunshine but of the adjacent Alcatraz Island . Even a place with the reputation of Alcatraz Island can look devastatingly beautiful on a day in December when caught at the right moment.  It was and I was there just at the moment that I would bring it here to appreciate.

The Angel Island Hark the Herald 12k (it also offers a 25k) achieved for me exactly what the organizers wanted.  A chance to appreciate nature in a very special place in the San Francisco Bay Area--Angel Island.

As a running experience with hills and lots of single lane trails, I'd rate this a moderate run.  It is fairly tough but tricky.  On the descent, it is semi-chaotic as the 25kers head back up on a single lane trail and it gets a bit crowded.  Though it is tabbed, a non-competitive event, runners by nature are very competitive and this comes out even from yours truly!  It's a great event especially for the views and it's one event that I'll continue to come back again and again!

Rick Rodriguez is a Real Estate Broker & Property Manager with 27+ years of experience in the real estate business. Rick, a Bay Area native and graduate of  Saint Mary's College, services the San Francisco Bay Area including the communities in the 680/580 freeway corridors, and Southern Alameda & Southern Contra Costa County. Contact Rick at rrodriguez@pacunion.com or (510) 326-4795.

Follow Rick at:

http://www.rickrodriguez.net/

www.RickRodriguez.typepad.com/The_Rocket

www.RickRodriguez.typepad.com/The_Rodriguez_Report

Woodside Half-Marathon Huddart County Park February 27, 2010 Commentary by Rick Rodriguez

Commentary By Rick Rodriguez

The Woodside Half Marathon  in Huddart County Park is set for tomorrow morning rain or shine!  Right now, it looks like a drenching is in store for me and the other brave souls willing to take on the elements.  Unless, the race is called for safety reasons, possible but unlikely, it should be a memorable day.  It's not often that I would willingly place myself in this situation, but really it will do nothing more than add to the adventure of experiencing the Santa Cruz Mountains.  In fact, rain isn't always a bad thing when running and sometimes it serves to cool body temperature.  That being said, running all out will probably be unlikely as trail condition will play a key factor!

Here's what the race director's Envirosports say about the run "The scenic course may humble you, with its 1,880 feet of climbing and descending - but at the same time, the remarkable surroundings will energize you as you navigate the lush hiking trails of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Along the course, you'll be shielded by redwood and oak forests and bordered by sprays of vibrant wildflowers. The climb will take you just shy of reaching Skyline Blvd. Who wants to be reminded of traffic anyway? At the turn-around aid station, you'll be able to fuel up for your descent back into Woodside. 5-milers turn around at an earlier point along the course. This is the half marathon that will rocket you towards your spring marathon goal."

Sounds fun and it beats running on pavement any day! 

February 27, 2010

Huddart Park did not disappoint!  Along with decent trail conditions, the beautiful setting made for an excellent day of trail running.  After Dave Horning, race director and owner of Envirosports, led us in the usual rendition of America the Beautiful, we were off and up toward Skyline Blvd, the morning's turn around point and nearly 1900 feet up this segment of the Santa Cruz Mountains.  After an early muddy and puddlely experience on the fire trail, the field moved up a single track trail (Dean & Crystal Springs Trails) buttressed by a plethora of redwood trees that shielded the runners from the nebulous sky above.

I settled into a steady pace, conserving my energy for later use, trying to restrain my competitive urges as many in the field whisked by.  Unfamiliar with the terrain, and armed with only the knowledge of having to climb the aforementioned height, I reasoned this was my best strategy.  Moreover, I couldn't get my breathing right and for some reason my breathing wasn't fluid, and notwithstanding the work at hand, I couldn't get to the point of catching my breath. 

Along the way, I met a fellow Saint Mary's College grad (Chris 88') and we shared a brief chat discussing our respective running experiences, employment, and the serenity of the park.  Chris moved ahead as I stuck to my strategy.  It wasn't long before I started seeing the leaders descending the mountain.  Since it was an out and back, we had to move aside as they came down the hill, many yelled encouragement as we continued our trek up the mountain, including Chris whom had started back as I crested the final ascent.  After refueling with some Hydro aid, I headed back down enthusiastically, and after re-entering the canopy covered trail, my pace quickened.  I needed to make up time and with the help of gravity, good footing, and a bit of luck--I started passing several runners.

While running downhill is less taxing on the lungs, potential injury and ligament pounding is exacerbated; and coupled with the wet trails and what would become a cold steady rain, made it even riskier to descend at a fast pace.  Nonetheless, I moved briskly downhill and passed many of the aforementioned runners that passed me ascending, and as I galloped downward, each step I took was planted securely to keep me from face planting on the trail or over the side!  Very soon, the rain thickened and I was covered in it, but thanks to my trusty vest I stayed somewhat warm. 

There's something special about running in the forest with rain nourishing the trees.  It is somewhat odd but at the same time there's a serenity about.  In addition to this peace, the mind only focuses on one step at a time, surveying the striking point, and the next, in order to assure safe keeping.  I was engrossed in this process.  And, after a couple of miles of descent, I moved away from the pack, and found myself alone on the trail with only a distant runner ahead of me.

I knew I had about 4 miles to go and didn't want anyone to catch me.  So, I kept a solid pace, and eventually caught the runner ahead of me.  I asked him if he minded me staying behind him, and with an accent said "no" and thus began another trail conversation.  Michael, originally from Germany, and now a software engineer at Twitter  and a Mountain View, Ca. resident, had kept a steady pace throughout and in fact I had noticed him earlier.  It certainly amazes me how often this happens; noticing someone and then later conversing as old friends.  In another half-marathon, I met Dominic Catalano, a friend who lives in Florida, and is paying me a visit in March.  I met Dominic at Mile 9 in Annadel State Park in the North Bay (Santa Rosa) and here we are still pals over a decade later.  Michael, a former tri-athlete was looking forward to the finish and together we ran the last few miles.  It was a nice way to finish the race and neither of us had any interest in a race off. So, we breezed in and the time passed quickly.  After the finish, I grabbed some replenishments, and after a good wipe down to eliminate the excessive mud that had tagged along for the ride down, I headed home.

The Woodside Half-Marathon is in the history books, at least for this year, and because of the experience, I'll come back to this one.  I enjoyed the run up the hill as it was not too difficult.  And, Huddart County Park, tucked conveniently adjacent to Woodside, Ca., with easy access from Highway 280, makes it an easy place to get to for a run, hike, or walk.  I found it a great way to get the weekend started and look forward to next year's run!

  

  

Rick Rodriguez is a Real Estate Broker & Property Manager with 27+ years of experience in the real estate business. Rick, a Bay Area native and graduate of Saint Mary's College  Saint Mary's College, services the San Francisco Bay Area including the communities in the 680/580 freeway corridors, and Southern Alameda & Southern Contra Costa County. Contact Rick at rrodriguez@pacunion.com or (510) 326-4795.

Follow Rick at:

http://www.rickrodriguez.net/

www.RickRodriguez.typepad.com/The_Rocket

www.RickRodriguez.typepad.com/The_Rodriguez_Report

Avenue of the Giants Half-Marthon May 2, 2010

By Rick Rodriguez

I'm really looking forward to this weekend's run in Humboldt Redwoods State Park!  I've never been up to this area but everyone I've talked to says its really beautiful.  Unfortunately, I won't have much time to sightsee up there as a friend is getting married Saturday and after the wedding I'll head up to rural Northern California for the run.  The run is Sunday morning then I'll drive back down home.

Here's the run described by the organizer's in the website "The Ave has been called by no less of an authority than RUNNERS WORLD MAGAZINE one of the most beautiful courses in the country.  The Marathon is a double out and back, as the course profile indicates; while the Half Marathon is a single out and back. Both start just beyond the Dyerville Bridge on Bull Creek Road and proceed 6.5 miles to the first turn around. The first mile is relatively flat, and within half a mile of the start, you will be running under a canopy of beautiful Redwoods. After the first mile, there are some sharp curves and fairly short hills. There is an open space and a sweeping curve at about the 4/9 mile mark. Then for the next mile or so, you enter arguably the most beautiful part of the course. The giant Redwoods close to the road look as though they were painted on a large canvass, the way they are perfectly arranged. At about five and a half miles, just beyond the Albee Creek Campground, you will enter an opening that continues to the first turn around. Don't worry about heat, however, for the temperature is usually still cool and part of the road is still shaded. The last mile plus is a gradual uphill with few curves. Turn around here, and retrace your steps. There are aid stations at 2, 4+ and 6+ miles: and of course they will be there on your return trip. Half marathoners will proceed to the finish line; while Marathoners will turn right onto The Avenue of the Giants. The second out and and back is mostly shaded, and has only one significant hill, as you travel through Weott at just beyond the 15 mile mark going out or the 23 mile mark coming back. There is what appears to be a steep hill near the 14/25 mile mark, but it is mostly an optical illusion. It's actually a bridge over the freeway. There are three and sometimes four aid stations, depending on the weather, along this out and back, so there will be plenty of refreshment for all. The area near Weott is open for about half a mile and the road is heavily cambered, so be careful how you attack this section of the course. The 10K starts on the Avenue of the Giants, about ten minutes after the Marathon and Half; goes down the Avenue for 3.1 miles and then returns; thus giving 10K folks the fun of the real hill, and the scary bridge. Some time before or after the race, be sure to check out The Founders Tree and the Dyerville Giant, on a short trail circling Founders Grove, about 100 yards down the Avenue from the Dyerville Bridge. Run wisely, enjoy the natural beauty of the area, and here's hoping you have a great time as a runner, spectator, or race volunteer."

So looking forward to marvelous Sunday morning run! 

Redwood Peak Trail Run Oakland, California April 18, 2010

By Rick Rodriguez

 
I discovered what I've been missing all these years in the Oakland Hills last Sunday!  More beautiful trails to run!  I knew they were up there but for some reason or another I seemed content scouring the trails of East Bay Regional Parks, Mount Diablo, and Mount Tamalpais.  What could I possibly find up there that I couldn't find next door at Lake Chabot?  How about majestic Redwoods closer than Muir Woods for starters! And, cool damp trails without having to drive to the coast to find a covered canopy that Redwoods provide.  But, I think what I enjoyed the most was the proximity to my casa!  It's kind of nice not having to get up so early in the AM for some trek to the far reaches of the Bay Area!

Unfortunately, the proximity cost me this time and for the 1st time in my running career--I missed the start!  Yes, I was late to the run and while that wasn't such a big deal a few wrong turns made a scheduled 17k just a twinge longer; in fact, I could only guesstimate adding an additional few miles!  I really had no idea how far I was off course and headed off twice in the wrong direction before reasoning that I had missed a turn!  Thankfully, the spring day made it a pleasure to be up in Redwood park and the adjacent Roberts Recreation area.

So, instead of a hard tough run,  I cruised and enjoyed my 1st time up there and I'll certainly return sooner, perhaps tomorrow morning!  Early on my wind was tested but the trail flattened a bit and then went back up for a long climb.  Tomorrow might be a great day to head back to Oakland for another attempt to find the right trail.  This time I'll take a map!  Anybody up for a run? 

Rosebowl Half-Marathon February 7, 2010

By Rick Rodriguez

On a perfectly overcast running morning, about a thousand runners gathered in the foreground of the Rose Bowl to test their fitness against this year's version of the Rose Bowl Half-Marathon, 10 & 5 K runs.  I had come in a little light on training and had not tested my legs for the 13.1 mile distance yet this year.   However, I was somewhat optimistic and knew I could at least count on my experience to slug my way to the finish.

The day promised to be one of uncertainty with the rain drenching the area in the preceding weeks.  This along with 9 miles of trails and admonishments from the race directors to expect them to be muddy added to what would become a difficult day for many in the field.

This year's course was changed and those changes came into play right away.  Instead of climbing up to Orange Grove Boulevard (Parade of Roses Route), we were directed down to a dirt trail adjacent to a creek bed.  A flat four miles of running rock strewn trails were quite a contrast to the hill up Orange Grove Blvd, and a favorable respite for me.  Undoubtedly, the rocky trail captured a few inexperienced runners that may have lost focus; I managed to dodge an early tragedy but the congested trails slowed the field.  The out and back got us back to the Rose Bowl parking lot and to a long stretch along the Rose Bowl and Brookside golf course.

Passing under the Colorado Bridge and up Devil's Gate Dam was scenic and memorable.  Afterward, a series of trails to paved roads ensued.  The aid stations came with some consistency but the course didn't have a mile marker until mile 9.  This worked to my advantage.  While I knew I had been out for awhile, I had little idea of distance and as soon as I hit Mile 9, I began focusing on the last four miles.  I stayed well hydrated throughout and as the last few miles ticked by fast; I began looking forward to running into the Rose Bowl where the run would conclude.

As I turned toward the final straight away, I focused on the final 100 yards where undoubtedly many great professional and college teams enter the Rose Bowl; I sprinted to the end and crossed with a burst of energy! 

The Rose Bowl half marathon competitors have an opportunity to run past and through some of Pasadena’s greatest landmarks including the Rose Bowl, the Colorado Bridge, the Arroyo Seco, Devil’s Gate Dam, JPL, the new Flintwash Bridge and more! The course is scenic, periodically hilly and comprised of a combination of road and trail.  Much of the course is on the trails near Brookside Golf Course and Hahamonga Watershed Park.   The best part about the run is that it finishes inside the Rose Bowl!

I enjoyed the run but many runners were not impressed with the trails (many rocks) and the slightly muddy conditions.  Since this was my 2nd Rose Bowl run, I could certainly appreciate the experience: I was quite pleased with the outcome.  And, despite the recent inclement weather the overall experience was great!

Pasadena is filled with nice restaurants and has a variety of nice spots to visit.   I had an excellent pre-race meal the night prior to the run at Madeleines Restaurant & Wine Bistro.  Though I didn't get enjoy much of their wine (because of the run), the restaurant is housed in a historic building full of charm and character.  Check them out at www.madeleinesrestaurant.com

I look forward to next year's run and one more shot at the Rose Bowl!

East Shore/Honker Bay Trail Lake Chabot Regional Park

By Rick Rodriguez

It's beauty somewhat dampened by the receding water line; nonetheless, Lake Chabot, is still one of my favorite places to run in the East Bay Area!  And while the Southeast portion of the lake is more reeds than water; the lake still maintains its allure to walkers, runners, hikers, mountain bikers, and fishing enthusiasts.

Yesterday's run was a quick out and back to the western most point of the Honker Bay Trail via the East Shore Trail.  It's a familiar run for me and to many others.  The trail is paved in the beginning, mostly flat, and is a fast in and out trail run with parking adjacent to main thoroughfare.  This makes it easy to hit the brakes, change into running gear, and be on the trail in minutes.  This run is about 4 miles and is excellent for beginning trail runners. The paved portion is 1.66 miles and from there you cross a slightly suspended bridge and onto the Honker Bay Trail.

Once past the bridge that marks the intersection of the Live Oak Trail and Honker Bay Trail, the surface is flat as the trail continues to hug Lake Chabot's shoreline.  No surprises here other than really cool views of the lake and the day's participants enjoying the park's offerings. And even despite the recent rains, surfaces remain firm enabling a mudless running experience.  As I looped around onto the Honker Bay Trail, and somewhat to my dismay, I began to notice what appeared to be a receding water line and a plethora of reeds inhabiting this section of the lake.  It's something I never noticed and certainly hope it's a temporary condition!

After passing this point, I continued onto the trail until I reached my turn around point.  Lurking in the distance, the Columbine Trail, a familiar running trail, intersects at Honker Bay Trail, and loops the entire lake.  Here, I spent countless hours prepping for marathons and I look forward to once again meeting its challenges.  But for now, I limited myself to this sneak peek back to the place where I first came to know the beauty of the East Bay trails!

Rose Bowl Half-Marathon February 7, 2010

By Rick Rodriguez

I've committed to the Rose Bowl Half-Marathon in Pasadena, California on February 7, 2010.  And, I took my first step toward retraining my legs to run early this morning.  So, it's something I'm looking forward to in the early part of this year.  The Buffalo Run on Catalina Island (February 27) is tentative, but it's one I'd like to run, too!  Both runs are 13.1 miles.  The Rose Bowl Half-Marathon I completed last year and it was a relatively flat run except for one stretch of trail running. 

The Buffalo Run is on Catalina Island; a place I've never been to and I would love to make it down for that event.  In reading up on the Buffalo Run, the Half-Marathon is a tough run: the event organizer's description "The Buffalo Run is the ultimate in trail running using the East End trails of Catalina Island. This half marathon course takes you from sea level to a 1600 foot elevation then returns to sea level. You will experience spectacular views of San Clemente Island and Avalon. The race also features the popular flat and fast 5k course. Many parts of the half marathon course are in areas that are not accessible by the public without permits. The course is beautiful, with unbelievable vistas and pristine trails that few get to traverse."

This morning's run was a quick loop around my home in Danville.  I saw very few runners this morning: somewhat unusual for this area.  I don't know if it was the weather, though it was nice and crisp out, or the long weekend that kept runners home.  Nonetheless, I hit the pavement after a stretch and warm up and eased into a nice pace.  Since this was my 1st run in over two months; the process will be slow in building mileage.  However, I've got about 5 weeks to reinvigorate my desire and discipline in order to put forth a good effort. 

I limited this morning's run to just 4 miles. In the past, I would go out too fast and either over train or weaken my immune system; typical side affects of doing too much too soon, but this year I'd like to focus and be more consistent!

I welcome encouragement, support, or participation. 

Crystal Springs Reservoir October 24, 2009

By Rick Rodriguez

On a bright sunny Saturday, I took a moment to stop in and check out Crystal Springs Reservoir in San Mateo County.  The reservoir, an artificial lake, is located west of  the cities of San Mateo and Hillsborough.  The reservoir is nestled adjacent to I-280 and 92 Freeways extending along a  portion of the San Andreas Fault.  There are several points of entry.  I used the one I'm familiar with and one that appears to easily access the reservoir.

I've passed this entrance hundreds of times usually on my way to Half Moon Bay, or somewhere else on the California coast.  On this day, however, I decided to stop and discover this part of the San Francisco Bay Area for the 1st time! 

Sawyer Camp trail, a paved 6 mile trail, is one of the most popular in Bay Area and perhaps the most frequented in Crystal Springs Reservoir.  Today, however, it was about introduction and adventure.  So, after grabbing the nearest trail, we were off to see where it would lead us.  Often, for me, these are the most memorable experiences and on other occasions, I miss out on the most popular stuff.  However, soon after strolling onto the benign trail situated adjacent to the reservoir, isolation ensued.  About the only intrusion was a man-made fence abutting the trail; ostensibly the fence isolates the reservoir from intruders, and it works well.  It doesn't, however, destroy the scenic beauty that developed as we strolled along the trail.   Not only was it a perfectly still day, but it was quiet and while the trail was very moderate in difficulty, on occasion a slight grade added to the calorie burn! We walked for miles along the trail noticing coves, tree canopies, and trespasser warning signs.  The latter enough of a detriment to encourage us to stay the course. 

Only infrequently did we notice anyone either on the trail or on the adjacent road.  It was an incredible treat to find a quietness so closely to the bustling suburbia nearby.  Interspersing run and hike techniques, we soon found ourselves at the limit of our water supplies and decided to turn back.  The trek back was equally as pleasant as the initial journey.  Very soon we found ourselves within seeing range of our transportation and my thoughts turned to lunch. 

So, as we headed back, I already had an idea of our next stop. Continuing west onto the 92 thoroughfare toward Half Moon Bay, we headed to one of my favorite spots, Barbara's Fish Trap.  Situated across from the Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, another popular spot, Barbara's is a great place to relax along the California Coast.  It's just north of where 92 intersects with Highway 1 heading toward San Francisco. Barbara's Fish Trap has great seafood, and great views of the surrounding Half Moon Bay.  

I had the Captain's platter, a plethora of unfried seafood, and I couldn't resist a glass (2) of Cabernet; despite the wine connoisseur faux paux (mixing Red with Seafood), it went over well.  The place is usually quiet crowded and relaxing over at the Half Moon Bay Brewing Company is a good way to enjoy the wait for a table.  Parking is a bit sparse, too!  But, undoubtedly, the food makes it all worthwhile.

Afterward, we drove north on Highway 1 toward San Francisco.  Highway 1 has some amazing scenery, and the road was recently improved making the trek north somewhat easier to navigate turns; some sections of Highway 1 are situated very near the precipice of steep cliffs, and the views add to the challenge of remaining road focused! 

So, after carefully negotiating our way into Daly City, one last stop was in order to cap off a great day.  Perhaps, a cappuccino and dessert, at a hidden San Francisco gem?  Yes, that's exactly what was in order, so we shot into Glen Park's--Chenery Park Restaurant--and capped off the day with a calorie busting treat--so much for our earlier work! 

 I first noticed this restaurant in 2006.  Back then, I worked in Glen Park on a couple of real estate transactions.  I had never had dinner at the restaurant but had longed to stop in.  The place was crowded and the reviews are great!  Check it out sometime when visiting San Francisco!

It was the perfect place and a great ending to a day of discovery here in the San Francisco Bay Area.  There is certainly more to see at Crystal Springs Reservoir and I doubt it will take me long to adventure off into this part of the Bay Area again!

Envirosports Angel Island 12k August 22, 2009

By Rick Rodriguez

A great introduction to trail running is the Angel Island 12k or 25k.  Unlike most trail races, this one is fairly benign.  It doesn't punish runners like other arduous trail runs in the Bay Area; it offers cool Bay breezes, and some pretty incredible Bay Area scenery. 

After a quick Ferry ride from Tiburon, the run begins in the picnic area adjacent to the Angel Island Visitor Center.  After a quick loop around the picnic area, runners begin the climb up to Mt. Livermore (788 feet) on a paved trail before hitting a single track dirt trail. 

As with many climbing trail runs, I usually hold back a bit at the beginning because any over enthusiasm is typically quelled by the trail fighting back against unprepared quads and lungs.  However, aided by a crisp cool morning and hundreds of other runners; I got off to an excellent beginning.  Early on a tree impediment on the single dirt track slowed the runners.  This seemed to give the runners a respite including yours truly!  After the slight breather, the single track began to space the runners a bit, and I tried to find my running lungs as we climbed.  Fortunately, the incline was less than steep, and I moved to get comfortable.  As we made the turn against a wooded fence, a beautiful view ensued, and despite the risk of drawing my eyes away from the trail I glanced over just for a moment.

Of course, the reward was worth it but very quickly I recommitted to the task at hand.  As I moved over the gradual terrain, I kept wondering if the trail would ever get real difficult. And, I also wondered if the Sun would appear and mitigate the cool Ocean breezes. 

I kept moving at a decent pace.  The trail at this point switches to a fire road and then back to a single track but the fire road gave me a moment to grab a runners friend--H2O!  There isn't any water stops on this trail run so as instructed I carried my own water.  Carrying water always is a challenge for me but I learned it is best to grab a bottle and run with it in hand. I've got all the fancy do-dads that ostensibly make water transport easier; however, I've encountered a series of challenges with each.  Food for thought!

Once I arrived at the top of the run (3.5 miles), the scamper down is fast.  I caught a good wind and streamed down the Mountain.  Other runners were having similar experiences, and as with any downhill that isn't too long, it was fun!  I focused on not cracking a bone, landing accurately, and steadying myself so as to not push into a slower runner.  While running downhill is less taxing on the lungs, the knees take a beating as they brake and adjust against gravity.  For me, I like the mixture of up and downhill running and this gives the knees a decent break.

The finish was uneventful and I crossed with some energy behind me.  After grabbing some trail mix and liquid replenishment, I headed over to the disembarking point, sat down and read a distributed trail magazine.  My thoughts drifted to my next experience...

The Angel Island 12k was fun and briefly I recalled the time my Brother and I got stranded against high tide here when we were kids; if my parents only knew!  I'd certainly recommend this experience for neophyte trail runners.  It's a good introduction that works out the lungs, heart, and legs.  The 25k is a double loop and that would definitely challenge!

As I waited for the Ferry the Sun started cracking through.  I closed my eyes, stretched out on a bench and relaxed.  It was a great start to the weekend!

Marin Headlands Xterra Trail Series 21k June 13, 2009

By Rick Rodriguez

I've spent a lot of time grinding over the trails in the Marin Headlands this past year.  Now, it's time to test my endurance in the Marin Headlands Xterra Trail Series.  It's a 21k race with steep elevations and descents in arguably some of the finest scenery in Northern California.  The race promises to be a serious challenge, and I am eagerly awaiting the test!  Check out the Topography profile:  Undoubtedly this will be a test of will and endurance.  The course has it all. The race starts in Sausalito at Rodeo Beach http://www.trailrace.com/maps/marin_coursemap.pdf  The first couple k are up the 'paved' portion of the Coast Trail road past Fort Cronkhite and Battery Townsley. It's a nice climb uphill and then a little descent and left turn on the Miwok Trail.  Left at the Marincello that descends into the Tennessee Valley.  Next up is a right turn onto Fox Trail/Coyote Ridge all the way to the West side of the park - very remote and very beautiful.  At this point, the race becomes an awesome single track along the Coastal Trail - with steps, rocks, views, it's absolutely breathtaking along the cliffs. Once  into Tennessee Valley it's a nice 'climb' back up to Wolf Ridge.   After that, it's a sweet descent back down to the base area, and the finish line!

I haven't taken on a test like this since December's (2008) Pasadena Half-Marathon.  But lately, my motivation level has returned nearly to Marathon level.  Usually, this takes place in my mind and then I try an d convince my body to join the party.  I am seriously contemplating registering for the www.Chicagomarathon.com in October.  So, I've got to put in some serious effort to get back into marathon shape!  I've worked out on the hills in my backyard on Mt. Diablo in Danville, California recently.  I look forward to this challenge!