Walk: Sat. May 2 @ Tim's

Shorts weather is nearly upon us, as this recent photo documents. Time to think about things that seem such distant memories: hats, sunscreen, BodyGlide, and extra hydration.

The latter point, drinking plenty of water on the day before our long walks, will be increasingly important as we get into longer distances and big races during the hot weather.

As we train longer, we also need to refuel while we're walking, for any walks longer than an hour. Bring something that will not only give us food energy, but supply some of the lost salts aka electrolytes that we sweat out.

Some people prefer solids such as sports bars or cookies. Some like sports gels or candies. Some like drinks. Experiment with different things during training, so you'll know what works for you. There are new things on the market all the time.

This Saturday is a comparatively short 11K. And we'll be thinking of Lou-Ann, Ruth, Olwyn and Arlene doing the Sporting Life 10K the next day. Have a great race, gals!

Speaking of which, the organizers have just made 800 more spaces available in this sold-out race. If you want to join the 12,000 (plus 800) gliding down Yonge Street on Sunday -- but don't mind not getting a medal or t-shirt -- they're offering a lower fee of $40. But you have to register in person at the main Sporting Life store on Yonge near Lawrence. Please let me know if you do.