Note changes: Post-Christmas/New Year walks

At the Resolution 5K, what a turnout for the Shore Things, partners and kids!

A great showing for the Shore Things on a blustery cold day at the Exhibition Grounds. We even had a winner (Ray) at the post-race draw. And a most serious spread at Debbie's afterwards. Thanks, Debbie, from all of us for your generosity. We all want your flat now, though, as well as your recipe for brownies.

Next week, for those who are free during daylight hours, Dawn has again offered to host morning walks. For this week only, we'll switch our days to Tuesday and Thursday, for 6-8K starting at 9 am.

If you'd prefer company for our usual days and times, please make your requests here.

As Saturday is New Year's Day, we're also going to do a one-time switch for our weekend walk to Sunday at Tim's. So we don't completely go off the rails for our first walk of 2011, let's keep it to our usual 8 am start time; distance 6-10K.

Next week, we return to our regularly scheduled programming.

Another memorable calendar year draws to a close for the Shore Things. Some of us have been walking together since the beginning of 2003 – which means we're heading into our ninth year as a group. My my, time really does fly when you're having fun. As Sharon wrote in her Christmas letter:

I have met truly amazing people, men and women alike. I could not have imagined that I would have so many friends that I could share so many ideas and interests with. I never thought that I would travel to so many places, even out of the country (imagine, Iceland!)… all the time challenging myself to push that much harder, to go that much further, to always improve and to be a better person.

We have been the best support group for one another. We have been there in the worst of times and the best of times. We have shared triumphs and disappointments. We have laughed heartily and have eaten our way to oblivion. We have celebrated milestones and endured everything that life can throw at us. We have done it all…

More good stuff in the months ahead, beginning (I think) with the Robbie Burns 8K on Jan. 23rd.

Belated Happy Birthday to Eva, Advance Birthday Wishes to Brette, and a very Happy New Year to each and every one.

Pre-Christmas walk and Resolution 5K

We liked the morning walk so much on Monday, we're going to try it again. Maybe it was the butter tarts. On Wednesday, Leverne has offered to host the walk, starting at 9 am. That sounds good to me! (Check the Shore Things directory for Leverne's address -- if you need a directory, let us know.)

If anyone wants to find companions for a different day or time, please say so here.

Race kit pick-up for the Resolution 5K: Dawn and Charlotte have offered to pick up race kits. If you need a pick-up, please forward your race confirmation to one of the gals. Let me know if you need an e-ddress.

Carpooling for the race: Bob & I have room for five more in the van if you'd like a ride. Or maybe you can offer a ride? Please let us know in the comments.

If we don't see you before the big day, do have a Happy Christmas! See you when the panic is over.

Walk: Sat. Dec. 18 @ Tim's (and Monday alternative)

Holy moley, Saturday's just a week away from Christmas. Seven days! I don't know about you Santas, but I need to get my sprinting shoes on! However, I'd be happy for a walk to get a head start on the mad dash ahead. How about 8K, quick coffay and on our way? See you at 8 am.

For Monday, an alternative plan is afoot to meet at Dawn H's at 9 am rather than the evening. Please sign in if you're interested.

By the way, we have one extra, memory-filled, made-with-love Shore Things calendar up for grabs – for the reasonable sum of $21. First come, first gets. (If you saw the yearbook and wish you'd ordered one: you can. We have up to 40 days after ordering to reorder. But please be quick.)

Walks: Mon. Dec. 13 & Wed. Dec. 15

A sunny Saturday on the Spit.

Winter is certainly upon us. As I write this, there's a flash-freeze warning on the Weather Network, so please be safe out there and check in to see who's coming out for Monday's walk.

Wednesday is my last class! After which I'll be back in the fold, and boy am I missing those walks.

Both evenings will be 5K, 6K, or whatever darned K we feel like doing, a trend we'll follow until after the holidays. Let us know what's on your mind.

Walk: Sat. Dec. 11 @ Tim's

One of Olwyn's photos – sunrise over Lake Ontario

Saturday will soon be here – if you have the time and need the airing, there will be people just like you ready for a walk (all speeds, any distance). Come out and match up. (A few of us doing the Tannenbaum 10K on Sunday may or may not be there. TBD.)

We could even see Cynthia, who has been given official "Survivor" status after many moons of treatment. We knew that about you already, Cynthia. Looking forward to having you back.

The first order for calendars and the Shore Things yearbooks have all arrived. If you've ordered, Charlotte will contact you with payment instructions.

In case you missed the notice in today's Toronto Star about the visitation and service on Friday for Olwyn's mother, please follow this link for details. Olwyn, our thoughts are with you.

Walks: Mon. Dec. 6 & Wed. Dec. 8

Could this be the Shore Things' club lodge?

My fear friends, I'll keep it short: Hope you can come out for in 5-6K on Monday and/or Wednesday! With luck, our calendars will arrive on Tuesday – at which time, I should know whether tax and duty have been applied, and can get the final price to Charlotte.

A reminder about Brette's Silpada party for Maria on Thursday (regrets only).

And, Karin, hope life is being good to you and that you had a super birthday!

Walk: Sat. Dec. 4 @ Tim's

The cloud elves were cutting out perfect little snowflakes when we ended our walk last Saturday. (Check out the one on Lynn's red hatband.) This Saturday is supposed to be cool but sunny.

Let's get together and see where we feel like walking for 8-10K. We need to clear our minds for our holiday preparations. It's December already!

Before I get on to the next topic, here's a Happy Birthday to Barb S -- hope you're enjoying your day!

As we look ahead to the races of 2011, it's good to think how we can continue to be ambassadors for walking. To that end, here's a message from Arlene with some good things to think and talk about on our walks:

Hi Shore Things,

I recently chatted with Lee Scott of Wow Powerwalking about specific walker concerns in local races. She has since spoken to local race organizers representing Angus Glen, Chili Half, Mississauga etc. and some common concerns have emerged:

- their races are selling out ever-more quickly based solely on the number of runners BUT the number of walkers each year is not increasing

- however, the run-walker category is steadily on the rise (from 10-min run/1-min walk to the opposite)

- there's continual hassle from citizens, officials etc about road closures, both the associated time and costs.  Including walkers means that roads must be open longer. Organizers must account for all stragglers and not just ask them to move to the side at the end of the time period.

- how to officially judge walking results in order to properly award prizes. More walkers are protesting placements.

These organizers are wondering if cancelling the official walker category is the way to go.

Lee feels we must continue to advocate for a separate walking start and separate results. The former will minimize complaints since walkers themselves will police the run-walk competitors. Eventually she hopes to convert the run-walkers to power walkers. Perhaps a protest system will work down the road. She feels that the overall walker numbers will remain somewhat static.

In the short term Lee recommends the following:

- All walkers should support races with a separate walking division [as an aside from Helen: Bob & I have both signed up for the Chilly Half, which is one of those races; hope you'll join us!]

- We should write thank you notes showing our support [excellent point!]

- We should encourage organizers to decrease the time the course must remain open. Our form and training produces faster times than mere strolling. Lee thought perhaps between 3:15 and 3:30 hrs. for a half marathon.

On a final note, Ruth had a great idea if walkers can't have their own results: Register walkers separately for a race within a race and award our own prizes. To be discussed!

Thanks, Lee and Arlene (and Ruth). You've given us lots to think about. I'd like to make another suggestion. Ask those races with walkers categories, such as the Chilly Half and Robbie Burns, to award walker prizes first – it gets a small number of prizes out of the way quickly, and exposes the sport to a large number of people, allowing us to remind the audience that walking is walking 100% of the time. Let's get the conversation going.

But I want to stress that diplomacy is our biggest ally. Angry harangues won't do us any favours.

Walks: Mon. Nov. 29 & Wed. Dec. 1

Shore Things lighting up the streets in November 2009

As we head into December and the holiday season, our goal is just to get out for an airing. Weeknights will be about 6K, weather dependent. Do try to come for a walk if you can.

There was a fascinating New York Times article recently that touches on the relationship between exercise and healthy aging. It's worth registering with the NYT to read this online (it's free), as it underlines the good things we do for our overall physical and mental health when we exercise – especially as we, er, mature.

A reminder that Dec. 1st is the day rates go up for the Resolution 5K.

Margy & Rainer, having been there, done that, and got the t-shirt (well, the jacket) have opted instead for the Boxing Day 10-Miler in Hamilton. This one also has a medal, and you know they don't have quite enough of those. The race swag is a pair of snowman-printed technical mitts. You have till Nov. 30th to register online if you'd like to join the King & Queen of the Short Race – though, at ten miles, we might have to change their title for 2011!

See you soon, friends.

Walk: Sat. Nov. 27 @ Tim's

Two of our Shore Things photographers (themselves, very photogenic) compare captures.

If the weather cooperates, we'll enjoy 8-10K on Saturday (or less, if you prefer), complete with genial conversation. Please join us, starting at 8 am, from Tim's on Lakeshore at Leslie.

There will be a calendar reorder (first order should arrive Dec. 12th), so if you're sorry you missed out please email me instantly. (Haven't received the book delivery date yet, but they have been ordered.)

Please RSVP directly to Debbie (not to me or the comments) if you're accepting or declining her invitation after the Resolution 5K on Dec. 26th. Save some room for what looks like will be a marvelous brunch. FYI, price hikes up for race registration after Dec. 1st.

That's it from me. Stay warm. Stay safe. And, if you have any American in or with you, have a happy Thanksgiving!

Walks: Mon. Nov. 22 & Wed. Nov. 24

For a little balletic cross-training, Lou-Ann steps up to the piano barre.

Looks like it might be a wet one on Monday. Let's see how it is closer to the event. If we can, it would be good to squeeze in 5-6K, don't you think? Wednesday's weather looks more promising, and we'll aim for the same.

Races are filling quickly. The Toronto Women's Half in May is already sold out (!), as are the Tannenbaum 10K and Robbie Burns 8K. So so visit the blog, look at the races posted there, or suggest your own, and register. It's much cheaper to register early and, as we can see, it avoids disappointment.

For those doing the Resolution 5K, Debbie has generously invited us to brunch at her place afterwards, and she's putting on quite a spread! I'll send you all the details privately. Thanks, Debbie!

It was great to see Debbie out and looking so fit on Saturday. We should all look so good after major surgery!

Calendars and books have been ordered. Charlotte will contact you about payment (thanks, Charlotte!), after I get the final tally. With the discount for a 25+ order, the base price for the calendars is US$17.99, plus currency exchange, shipping and HST. The base price for the books is US$101 and change, plus the above.

We have a 30-day window in which to re-order if you decide you want a calendar, but it would be without the discount: US$19.99, plus the above. The exchange rate comes in pretty close to par.

Thanks to everyone who has volunteered on various committees! You are making my life a whole lot easier. For those who need how-to training on the blog, I'll arrange a lunch or dinner session over the Christmas break. Thanks to Eileen for coordinating everything.

And thanks again, all of you, for my sparkly jewelry. I love the Shore Things.

Walk: Sat. Nov. 20 @ Tim's

Great shot of last Saturday's misty morning, by our gal Eileen

They say that this week's sulky weather will smarten up a bit for Saturday. Good thing, 'cause I have leaves to shred! Shall we say 8 am for 8-10K? We need to get a walk in before Santa Claus arrives on Sunday to herald in high-calorie season.

By the way, you still have time to order a book or calendar, as I won't be placing the order till we straighten out the dates below. Every year, we seem to get reorders after people see the product, so why wait? (As I don't make a penny on the sale, this little nag is for your benefit only.)

Our poll: Votes so far overwhelmingly prefer (13-1) a spring race and fall party. If you haven't clicked in your vote (the poll is at the top of the right column on the blog), you have three more days to do so. Sorry, I can't accept votes given in the comments, as there's a danger of duplication.

Proposed dates: For our spring 10K race, how about Sunday, April 3rd (the day after Harry's and the Beach Spring Sprint)?

For our fall party, for the last couple of years it's been on the second Saturday in November. However, in 2011 that falls on a couple of Shore Things birthdays. Since we'll all know in advance, I'm hoping the group won't mind shifting the date by one week to make it November 19th (the 3rd Saturday), for 2011 only. Then we'll return to our regularly scheduled programming.

Good luck to Margy and Rainer, who are already working on deafening us at next year's party with the sound of their medals clinking. They're doing the Whitby Waterfront Race on Sunday.

I also have sad news to pass along. Many of you will remember Darrell Atherley, the extremely tall, extremely fast, extremely nice walker from Wow in Oakville. He passed away on Nov. 12th after a year-long battle with cancer. There will be a death notice soon with details in the Globe & Mail. We send our sincere condolences to his wife Joan and their family.

Walks: Mon. Nov. 15 & Wed. Nov. 17

Gracious hostess and host, Norma and David

First, I know we all want to thank Norma and David for opening their home to us on Saturday. It was a lovely venue for a great way to end our year. Thanks also to everyone who brought such delicious food. Once again, I heard murmurings about a Shore Things Cookbook. We might even have a volunteer to handle that one. Alisa?

By the way, Norma is looking for the owner of some lost articles: the couscous plate/spoon and a tea towel, both left behind. No ransom required. Speak up.

A poll is now up on the blog about our race and party, so please go on over and vote by November 21st. Due to the growing popularity of the 10K event, we'd keep our race to a 10K only (or, perhaps, a 10 + 1 in honour of 2011). The question is: when should we hold it, and how should we avoid another two-week-apart race/party situation? Whatever we decide, I'd like to include the dates in our calendar. If you have specific suggestions, include them in the comments to this post. Your choices are:

- Spring race and brunch/Fall evening party
- Race/brunch only OR Evening party only, likely in fall
- Combine the race and party, held at brunch-time rather than evening

We also forgot to mention our Shore Things Directory, which Sharon has now updated (the long delay is my fault, not Sharon's). Please let Sharon or myself know if you would like a PDF copy via email.

A reminder that if you're able to volunteer for the club, please contact Eileen. With a big thank you from me!

Monday's and Wednesday's walks will be a companionable 5-6K. Come out for an airing at 7 pm.

Birthday girls Ruth and Marilyn, I hope your day is splendid. Happy birthday! Do you realize that we have 10 people in our group who share the same birthday (well, actually they share the same five birthdays)? Is that statistically significant (and, if so, of what?), or just a crazy coincidence?

Walk: Sat. Nov. 13 & Party!

A salute to the many volunteers behind the Shore Things 10 + 10. Thanks, gang!

We'll have a fine fall walk. Does 8K sound good? Then a quick coffee and we can go get cracking on our pot for the pot luck. No, not that kind of pot.

Last I heard there were still a few names missing from the RSVP list that I'd've expected to see there. Ask: did I RSVP a) by email and b) to Norma? If not, please do. More than just swizzle sticks depend on this info. Remember to wear your medals on Saturday evening, too.

Shore Things are registered for these upcoming races – maybe you'll want to join them. Links to the races and lists of our participants (see the Races Interest List) are on the blog:

Tannenbaum 10K, right here in the Beach, Dec. 12th (over 75% sold out)
Resolution 5K at the CNE, Dec. 26th (fees go up after Dec. 1)
Robbie Burns 8K, Burlington, Jan. 23rd (often sells out quickly)

Last weekend, at the Angus Glen 10K, Rainer was initiated into the guiding role by Arlene, who was going for a personal best. It looks like they and Margy all had blazing times. Here's Rainer's report:

Margie came in strong and looking great (as usual) with a time of 1:21:13 chip time. Alene and I came in at 1:11:12 chip time and had been told by a couple of other walkers and a race official that we were the first walkers in. However, Sportstats results showed us in 6 & 7 position. We spoke to Sara Stirling (Race organizer) about this and heard the same old stuff... how can we control... we don't have spotters...how can we know who is walker and who is runner....same old stuff. We were looking at a couple of pics that are already posted (really fast) by photographer and it is obvious they were runners (or run / walking). Will send Sara some feedback and hopefully it helps for next year.

I was sore after race. Arlene is a fast walker and I had a hard time trying to keep up with her.....and she asked me if she was holding me back. So Arlene was first overall walker (as she beat me by 2/100 second). I hope I can get Sportstats posting reversed as she deserved to win the race, she walked a very strong race.

We can all help educate people (and race organizers) about what it means to walk a race. Running with a walk break, or walking with a run break, is not walking. It could be as easy as putting a sentence on the registration info: Walkers walk, 100% of the time; if you'll run any part of the race, please register as a runner. It's really as simple as that. Spreading the word will help reduce the number of people who I believe in all innocence register mistakenly as walkers.

This was meant to be a short post, and now look at it! One last thing: Happy birthday to Libby and Yuen! Hope your day is sunny!

See you on Saturday, friends.

Walks: Mon. Nov. 8 & Wed. Nov. 10 -- and Party, Nov. 13

Cheers! 2010 has been quite a year. Come celebrate.

First, I need to request your RSVP ASAP for our pot luck next Saturday, Nov. 13. Yes, it's awfully close to our 10 + 10 – and I'll propose a way to avoid that next year – but our hosts Norma and David need to know how many swizzle sticks, &c., they'll need. So please check the original invitation in your in-box for Norma's contact info, or reply directly to me, and come celebrate 2010 together. Bring your ideas for next year. P.S. Wear your medals!

Monday and Wednesday will be maintenance mode: 6-8K depending on the group and the weather.

And fair weather is in our wishes for our 10K racers on Sunday at Angus Glen: Rainer will be guiding for Arlene for the first time, and Margy will be keeping them company. Good luck, gang.

Walk: Sat. Nov. 6 @ Tim's

Clocks go back this weekend, making it extra dark for our weeknights!

Saturday at 8 am, about 8-10K in good company. Sound like a plan? Good.

Remember to set back your clocks before heading to dreamland on Saturday night... you get an extra hour of sleep! But it will be even darker for our weeknight walks. We won't always have a flash camera lighting us from behind. Wait a minute. Yes, we probably will. Me! But not all the time. So get out your reflective gear, put on your sparkle lights. (And, while you're at it, have a look for your Yaktraks, so winter doesn't take you by surprise.)

Next Saturday, Nov. 13th, is our year-end pot luck party at Norma and David's. Please RSVP to our hosts, so they will be prepared.

Any medal suggestions for your friends and cohorts, send 'em my way. Due to a paucity of volunteers (hint hint), I am the entire medal committee this year. As I'm hoping to retire – I would love to pass the baton officially so that we can continue to have our beloved medals (love my subtlety?).

Let me know which races you've signed for, too -- I'm updated our interests list. Check it out on the blog.

Walks: Mon. Nov. 1 & Wed. Nov. 3

Just the kind of people you expect to run into on a walk: a guy dressed as Golden Age Flash (whom any comic reader knows is "The Fastest Man Alive" – and, appropriately for us, winner of the 10M in the Shore Things 10 + 10 2000 + 10), an Old West sheriff and Cleopatra. Right? You bet your asp! Not only that...

We saw Jane Fonda workin' out (and winnin' the 10K). Santa made an early appearance, looking much younger without the beard. Plus, we were followed by a cute biker chick, Count Dracula and his Ladybird, a queen, a hockey player, a hippie, a baker and a chef, and assorted creatures identically dressed as Shore Things. Scary! Look for them soon on our Flickr site.

The TKOs brunch was once more a success and the weather was much more cooperative than our first time out. Huge thanks to all our organizers, prize contributors and race day volunteers. What do you say, kids? Same time next year (Sunday, Oct. 30th)?

Thus begins our maintenance schedule till the new year. Weeknights will be 5-8K, depending on the weather and the turnout. Saturdays will be 6-10K, with the same criteria. This is the ideal time to join us for walks if you've been lurking due to the long training distances. Come out and enjoy the late fall weather.

This Wednesday is a Doc Soup night, which takes many of our regulars away. So please sign in if you plan to be there... so no one has to wonder if they'll be walking alone.

Speaking of signing in, please let us know in the comments if you'll be signing up for (or are thinking of signing up for) any of the December fun races. Barbara tells me she has already signed for the Resolution 5K, and is thinking of the Santa suit race again. Please voice up asap.

Birthday wishes to David, the first of our November babies. Have a very happy one!

Walk: Sat. Oct. 30 & Shore Things 10 + 10

Witness Leverne's amazing levitation powers!

Don't be a punkinhead! Be sure to get your costume ready for Sunday and our Shore Things 10 + 10. By now, you should have received maps and instructions. Remember to bring $15 each in cash for our brunch. If anything's unclear, please contact me. All I can add is: please don't hog the prime parking spaces at our usual haunt. There's more room across the street.

I haven't heard from anyone who still wants to meet for a walk on Saturday. If you meant to ask for company, but haven't yet, this is the time and place!

Birthday wishes to Stacey and Jeanny! Did you know you two shared your big day? Hope it's spectacular, despite this iffy weather.

Shore Things books and calendars: I have three orders for books, and 20 for calendars. After our race, I'm going to place the orders. If your name isn't on this list, but you'd like to order, please contact me. There's a 10% discount if we order 25 or more -- on the calendars, we're very close (I don't expect to get 25 book orders).

Calendars:
Olwyn (2)
Ruth
Eileen
Helen
Bob
Charlotte
Lynne
Dawn H.
Alexis
Michelle
Barbara B.
Rainer/Margy
Debbie
Stacey
Libby
Trish
Sharon
Lou-Ann
Jan

Book:
Barbara B.
Debbie
Jan

Walks: Oct. 25th & 27th & Shore Things 10 + 10

Except for the furious rain-dancing, it's such an easy week for the Shore Things. Come out on Monday and Wednesday for 6-8K-ish.

Sunday is our Shore Things 10+10, and we're hoping and dancing for dry weather. Our 10 Mile (16K) race starts at 8 am, but be at the race start earlier, no later than 7:45. We need you all to sign in and get your bib. The 10K race starts at 9 am, but be there no later than 8:45. Our TKOs brunch starts at 11 am. More detailed instructions and route maps will follow shortly.

Given that many of us are racing on Sunday, please let us know in the comments whether or not you'll be walking on Saturday. I'll post again later in the week to announce the consensus.

Remember to vote on Monday!

Walk: Sat. Oct. 23 @ Tim's

The good news is that Debbie's operation at TGH was successful, she's now recovering and, if all goes as planned, should be home in 3-5 days. Debbie, think of this picture as a toast to your good health!

Saturday is taper for everyone. 8K, or whatever distance feels right. Plus a rain dance to ensure that a week from Sunday will be sunny, as forecast. The sun's supposed to shine this Saturday, too, so c'mon out, folks!

Walks: Mon. Oct. 18 & Wed. Oct. 20

Fall colours along Lakeshore Avenue

Folks, this is one of those easy weeks – unless someone is training for an event they haven't mentioned to me. Just come out on Monday and Wednesday for an easy 6-8K. We'll decide the distance on the evening.

Congratulations to Ruth on her 2:38 chip time finish in the Toronto Half. It looks like it wasn't a personal best for her, but it's a record most of us would be proud – ecstatic – to have. Well done.

And congratulations, again, to Rainer for placing first in the Cavan Hills Country 10K. He and Margy had a good race. Here's his report:

The race was 10km and it was VERY hilly. It's called the Cavan Hills Race..... really tests your legs. Nice snacks after race. Home made baked beans and home made BUTTERTARTS. I usually never eat them but these are soooo good had 2. Actually had 2 cups of beans too. Very small and friendly event.

If you have a race or races you want people to consider for 2011, let me know. We might take 10 minutes at our party to do a short pitch for next year's events. Put on your thinking caps. On a pecuniary note: the earlier we register, the more money we save on entry fees!

Birthday wishes this week go out to Pat. Enjoy your day! It was great to see you on Thanksgiving Monday.

Walk: Sat. Oct. 16 @ Tim's

Look at the new equipment they've put in our playground! Er, gym.

Just two weeks left till our Shore Things 10+10. As we have to finalize everything, we ask that you commit by Saturday, including which race you're doing and your numbers for our brunch. You also might want to be planning your costumes for the big day.

This Sunday, Ruth blazes through the GoodLife Fitness Toronto Half. Good luck, girl. May you have fun and good weather.

I know it seems like we just finished, but now's the time to start thinking of races for next year. Or if only for our fun races in the month of December. There's the Santa Shuffle 5K on Dec. 4, not to be confused with the all-Santa-suit race, the Santa Jingle 5K, on Sat. Dec. 11. Both support good causes.

Plus, you have till Friday, Oct. 15th (that's tomorrow... or today, depending on when you read this) before the rates go up another $5 for the Resolution Run (AKA Walk) 5K on Boxing Day this year, Dec. 26th. The swag is a jacket that looks like it might be even nicer than last year's.

Saturday's walk for the 10-Milers will be 14K. For everyone else... come out and have a lovely stroll. We can talk about our plans.

Walk: Wed. Oct. 13 @ Shoppers

Five of our six smiling Chicago marathoners

The stories are starting to trickle in about Chicago. Debbie posted our team's finish times in a recent comment. They were impressive, to say the least. But the race was not without challenges. In 2009, according to a website I saw this morning, the temperatures in Chicago were in the 50-65˚F range. In 2010, it seems they were closer to 100˚F. Here's what Libby had to say about the experience:

It was certainly a test of endurance. With a crowd of 40,000 participants and over 100,000+ supporters, the city was filled with crowds similar to my Asian travel experiences!

The spectators were not allowed anywhere near the start or finish so it was hard to have pictures but I have attached a few. We were staying at different hotels as well. Nike had etched all participant names on the wall outside the store on Michigan avenue...I could only photo Lynne and Leverne as the rest were too high up!

The heat was quite a challenge and most runners added 30 minutes to their expected finishes. 4000 did NOT finish the race- a 10% drop out is high!- the ambulances sirens were running constantly so you knew the heat was an issue!

As recreational athletes we were all proud to be alive at the end of it! For Alexis, Lynne, Leverne and I as first time marathoners - I'm not sure I could say this was an exhilarating experience given the heat but we are all relieved to have this over and looking forward to more leisurely fall walks!

For Barbara B., the weather was too much. She became ill and had to drop out at Mile 10. Barbara, I know first hand how hard it is to have to drop out part way through a marathon you've trained so hard for. It looks like marathon fever hasn't quite died down, and there might be some who'd like to train with you if you're ready to make third time the charm in Chicago. Something to think about in the months ahead.

That's it, except to say: Come out for a walk and talk this evening at 7 pm. We'll set a 6-8K distance.

Walks: Thanksgiving Weekend 2010

Autumn 2010 along the Leslie St. Spit

If all goes as planned, we'll have a lovely Thanksgiving weekend (and the weather in Chicago looks amazing). Saturday, we'll meet at 8 am at Tim's for 11K (for the Shore Things 10-Milers) or a distance of your choosing.

Monday, the few people who've responded favour 9 am from Tim's. Let's make it 8K. Please sign in if you prefer to meet in the evening, to drum up company.

We'll be thinking about our marathoners on Sunday, October 10th. That's: 10.10.10. You're all 10s in our book. We can all do amazing things, and sometimes surprise ourselves.

Just read this article from Cheryl. Click on the image to enlarge it.

Walks: Mon. Oct. 4 & Wed. Oct. 6

Four of our six Chicago Marathoners. You go, girls!

It's easy street for the next two walks, if you're going to the Chicago Marathon: 6K and 5K. The rest of us might as well join them, to send them on their way in good cheer – and with big cheers!

And big cheers to Margy & Rainer for their performance in the PEC Half Marathon in Prince Edward County. They were each 2nd in their age category and top-ten finishers in their gender with a sub-3-hour finish. You guys are hard to beat for boundless energy!

Looking ahead to Thanksgiving weekend, there might be our long-weekend switcheroo for Monday's walk, if people prefer. What say, folks? Anyone prefer to walk on Monday morning rather than the evening? Sign in with your preferred time and place, and we'll announce it in our next post.

Please get Charlotte your $10 fee if you're doing the Shore Things 10 + 10. Please contact Trish if you can contribute to the prizes, and let Dawn H. know if you'll be at TKOs for brunch afterwards. Family are welcome to join us for brunch ($15 per person), but we need to let the restaurant know our numbers.

One last reminder: the Shore Things end-of-year party is Saturday, November 13th. Mark your calendars!

Walk: Sat. Oct. 2 @ Tim's

20-mile water station, Chicago Marathon 2005

Wow, October... already? The Chicago Marathon racers are getting ready for their milestone race on Thanksgiving weekend, just 10 days from today. Ruth is going for one more half mid-month with the Toronto Marathon. And the Shore Things 10+10 is closing out the month on Hallowe'en – don't forget to register with Charlotte, so we can be well prepared for our own race and fun. Apologies in advance for the important detail I'm missing. It's always something...

But I'm getting ahead of myself. Saturday, our Chicago racers enjoy a relatively brief 13K walk, while the rest of us can choose the distance that pleases us, depending on our race or recreation plans. Come out, come out, wherever you are. Good company and conversation are guaranteed, whatever your distance.

Walks: Mon. Sept. 27 & Wed. Sept. 29

The Shore Things (minus two) after the KW Walking Classic 2010

Our hats off to Susan and David Lewis and all the organizers for a great race with some very snazzy t-shirts and medals. The sky was blue, the temperature was just right, and despite a challenging, hilly course the Shore Things piled up milestones and personal bests at the KW Walking Classic 10K and very first half marathon.

Bob came in 2nd male and 7th overall with a personal best time of 1:24 and change. Arlene, Ruth, Sheila, Rainer and Marg each earned age-category rankings in the half and 10K. Barbara and Trish both had personal bests (I'm sure there were more; access the race results here), Jeanny completed her first half marathon, it was a first half, post-injury, for Eileen, and Maureen earned her first-ever medal. To top it all off, the pot luck dinner the night before was a big success, built around Rainer's delicious lasagna. Another tradition?

Meanwhile, back on the streets of Toronto, Olwyn was shining in her solo assault on the Scotia half marathon. Here's her report:

It was a delightful race!  My time was 3:14, give or take a few seconds... I saw Michelle under the Gardiner, she was out to support the race, and she snapped this pic!  I enjoyed it immensely; I felt like I was 'channeling' all of you through Eileen; we texted every few kilometers. The weather was perfect; the entertainment lovely, with many bands/dancers along the route; and I've never passed so many water stations in one race in my life!

It was quite the weekend. Now, the Chicago racers move into taper, but with one 16K Monday night walk left, with a more reasonable 6K interval night on Wednesday.

Except for Ruth (The Unstoppable), who is registered for the Toronto Half in mid-October, the rest of us can take a breather for a week – just a week – because we don't want to get out of form for the Shore Things 10 + 10 on October 31st (hope you'll be there). Come out on our usual nights and set your distances... 6K, 8K, 10K? Sign in and declare.

Now, I guess I'll wish myself a happy birthday, and many more!

Walks: Sat. Sept. 25 & KW Walking Classic Sun. Sept. 26

Shore Things rock the KW Walking Classic 10K in 2009

The Shore Things have 23 walkers doing the 10K and very first all-walkers half marathon in the KW Walking Classic on Sunday. At this point, you've checked your start times and know how you're getting there. If you want us to pick up your bibs the day before, please forward me your race confirmation email. Looks like the sun may be shining on our event.

Saturday night will be a pot-luck dinner at the hotel, and Rainer and Margy are bringing two big lasagnas as a start. Trish will have plates, napkins and utensils. And those going early to St. Jacob's market plan to fill in gaps with breads, salads and pies, lots of pies. But it's a true pot luck, so bring whatever you think you'd like. If you have dietary restriction, please let me know. We should aim to eat at around 6 pm. Sheila and company are the hostesses in their suite.

Meanwhile, back at Tim's there will surely be a small but enthusiastic group meeting at 8 am on Saturday for any distance that feels right. Sign in if you'll be among them.

Walks: Mon. Sept. 20 & Wed. Sept. 22

Look at those lovely flowers. And the ones on the right are nice, too.

It's an easy two walks going into our races this weekend for the Scotia & KW Walking Classic crew: 6K and 5K. Chicagoans are still putting in the paces with 14K and 8K.

For the KW races, please check the comments in the previous post, where Bob has listed our participants. You'll also see that he has organized a post-race brunch starting at 11:30. Please let us know if you're coming, and/or bringing a guest, so we can give the restaurant our numbers. Speak up if you're interested in carpooling, and we'll try to match people up.

For our Shore Things 10+10, we could use a couple more volunteers. It would also be hard to match the bounty of last year's draw prizes. However, if you can offer or organize something, please let Trish know. Pending avaiability of our race marshall, we hope to have our first planning meeting on Thursday evening at my house. 

Niki is our birthday girl this week. Have a spectacular birthday!

Walk: Sat. Sept. 18 @ Tim's

Looking happy at the lookout, Labour Day 2010

By popular demand, we're returning to our fall/winter/spring start time on Saturday: 8 am. Do I hear cheering? This Saturday, we'll do 8-10K – in keeping with the Scotia and KW Walking Classic Half schedule. Okay, Trish, you can do 6K if you prefer.

The Chicago marathon group will be doing 32-35K from the Grenadier Restaurant in High Park, and returning there for a well-deserved breakfast. I think they are starting at 6:30 am. Their route should take them past Tim's along the Martin Goodman Trail.

However, we might just miss each other if the other group heads north, south or east. So I propose that the Tim's group walk west to meet the Chicago group, then turn back after we meet. What do you think? Voice up in the comments.

Scotia needs volunteers in the Beach: If you aren't doing either race on Sept. 26th, and you have some time to give (or have high schoolers who need volunteer hours), Scotia is looking for volunteers along Queen Street between 8:30 am and 2 pm. If you are available, please email me and I'll put you in touch with Joanne Burton of the Stellar Runners. It will be beneficial for the Shore Things (I've been assured) and you'll get a complimentary race entry for next year.

On a celebratory note, Fiona, one of our west-end Shore Things, is our birthday girl on Friday. We hope you get to whoop it up, girl!

Walks: Mon. Sept. 13 & Wed. Sept. 15

Break out your night lights, friends, the evenings are getting darker – especially at the end of our walks. We want to be clearly visible when we're out there.

Just two weeks till we meet in Kitchener-Waterloo for the KW Walking Classic. The half marathoners have 10K & 10K on the schedule this Monday and Wednesday. The Chicago marathoners have 10K & 8K, in preparation for their loooooong walk this Saturday. Start time is 7 pm, as usual.

We have a mash-up of birthdays at the beginning of the week. Monday it's Margy and Denise, Tuesday it's Debbie. Hope the day is fab for each of you. Happy birthday from sweltering Dallas!

Walk: Sat. Sept. 11 @ Tim's

Does this look like labour to you?

Saturday, while I am in Dallas glowing in 95˚ weather, you will be enjoying a nice, sunny, autumn walk. Both the KW Half trainees and the Chicago marathoners have similar distances on Saturday: 18K and 19K respectively. Do you want to do it together? (I understand the Chicagoans have a route contemplated). Sign in and state your views. Start time is 7 am.

For those walking shorter distances, chime in and discuss your start time: 7:30 or 8?

Today, I'm wishing a happy birthday to Julaine, Saturday's birthday girl. Trish is back... come out and see us.

Walks: Labour Day Monday & Wed. Sept. 8

A little Labour Day fireworks for you from my garden. Hope you're enjoying the long weekend. To confirm the alternative time and place for Monday's walk: 8:30 am from Tim's. If you prefer to stick with Monday evening from Loblaws, please let people know by signing in on the blog.

The distance is 10K for the KW/Scotia halfs. Chicago, you have 13K on the schedule, but you can choose to break this into smaller chunks on two separate days. Everyone else, just come out for a walk and good company.

Wednesday, KW/Scotia does 10K and Chicago does 8K. Chicagoans, if you prefer, you could simply divide your distances into 10 + 10.

And, on that subject, could people please confirm that there is interest in doing the Shore Things 10 + 10 this October 31st? We have confirmed volunteers, but no confirmed participants. The registration fee will again be $10 to cover the cost of the medals and bibs. Charlotte, would you mind collecting the money?

Good luck to Rainer, the king of the short race, who is signed up for the Oakville Labour Day 10K. Take it easy and have fun!

We now begin the avalanche of September birthdays with Alexis, who (I believe) has a special one this Wednesday. Have a happy celebration, girl. This is a big year for you.

Walk: Sat. Sept. 4 @ Tim's

You knew this about these two, didn't you?

We're into the home stretch in training for the two upcoming events. Chicagoers have 29K on the schedule. That should be a cinch after your sweaty 30K last weekend. I expect you'll be starting at 6 am – please sign in to confirm or deny.

The half marathoners for Kitchener-Waterloo go 16K. Should we start at 7 am? I think so.

I realize that the 10K K-W racers don't have a schedule, so come out and (as those goofy Mungo Jerry In the Summertime lyrics say) "just do what you feel." But let us know what you're feeling, especially as it's the last long weekend of summer.

Whenever it's a long weekend, we often walk Monday morning at 9:30 am at Loblaws, rather than the Monday evening walk. Sign in to say if that appeals to you, and I'll note it in the next blog post.

Pre-race dinner for KW: Consensus is eat-in, so we'll make plans accordingly. Bob has volunteered to find a place for brunch afterwards. Details will follow.


Shore Things 10+10: Yes, we're starting to plan for our own 10-mile and 10K race on Sunday, October 31st, costumes optional. Eileen has agreed to be race marshall again, and now we need other volunteers. Last year, people volunteered to organize things like volunteers, prizes and the post-race brunch (TKOs was wonderful last time). We already have our route and hopefully can re-order medals. Please let us know your interest, as participants or as volunteers.

Shore Things Yearbook & Calendar: It would help me to know in advance how many people will order a book and/or calendar. For the book, I can go up to 100 pages. However, if you're thinking of ordering a book, you can help by telling me in advance how much you'd want to pay, and I can design the book accordingly. Your input, please.

Walks: Mon. Aug. 30 & Wed. Sept. 1

We had an Alfred Hitchcock moment out on the Spit early on Saturday. Fortunately, it passed without any incident or cameo appearance by Mr. H.

I hope the Chicago gals all weathered their self-imposed 30Ks both days. The two groups in training (Chicago Full and the KW and Scotia Halfs) both have roughly 8K (with intervals) and 10K distances these weeknights.

Do we trust ourselves to do three long intervals? Here's a route for Monday.

For Wednesday, 10K will take us south of Danforth to Pape and back.

It's easy to cut either of these routes short if you just want to come out for a walk. Feel free to join us.

Pasta dinner for the K-W races in September: We have two options. One is to make use of the kitchenette in the suite at the Waterloo Hotel to DIY with lasagna. Another is to reserve a table at Ennio's Pasta about 2K further along King Street. Have a look and let us know what you think. Bob is coordinating the dinner, so please leave your preference as a comment in the blog.

Shore Things are registered in both the K-W Walking Classic 10K and the Half Marathon – it's the first half marathon for walkers only. If you haven't done so already, Sept. 1st is the last date to save money on registration. Register for your preferred event here.

Walk: Sat. Aug. 28 @ Tim's

Reykjavik wasn't the only place the Shore Things strutted their stuff on August 21st. These three beauties represented our club in style at the Midsummer Night's 15K. Love the hula skirts! Is that magic potion in the water bottles? You'll have to tell all on Saturday.

Speaking of Saturday, the Chicago marathoners are already making plans to meet at 6 am for their 27K. We feel for you, gals!

The KW/Scotia Half distance is a sprightly 11K. That sounds just about right to me. And if anyone's still thinking of training for the Rome marathon in 2011 (Eva and Cheryl?), the distance is a leisurely 5K.

Remember our date at Barbara & Ian's at 6 pm on Saturday to celebrate the marriage of Eileen & John. Check the comments in the previous post for Barbara's navigation tips, especially due to the CNE and Gardiner construction tangles. We're happy to car pool if anyone needs a ride. Just let me know.

It also happens to be Eileen's birthday on Saturday, an honour that she shares each year with Charlotte. Happy birthday to you both!

Walks: Mon. Aug. 23 & Wed. Aug. 25

We're calling this post "A Tale of Two Pools." In the first picture, some of our early-morning walkers toast you with Lou-Ann's great coffee from the Shore Things' adopted swimming pool in Toronto.

In the second, a very happy bunch of Shore Things toasts you with Viking beers from the Blue Lagoon in Iceland after brilliant showings in the Reykjavik Half & Full Marathons. Those missing from this shot are too blissed-out in the extra-hot area of this vast hotspring-fed mineral pool to care about photo opps. It's a tough life, but somebody has to live it.

Highlights in Reykjavik were amazing times for full marathoners Kamiko (5:27), Robert (5:29), Arlene (5:35) and Ruth (5:35). For Miko and Arlene, it was their very first marathon. They kept the mats down, so all our full marathoners came home with official times as well as medals. Yay! In the half, Sharon led the pack with a finish of 3:01. Check all the full marathon results here and the half marathon results here. (As an aside: Together, we have more than 3,000 pictures from Iceland… and counting.)

Chicago marathoners and Scotia/KW half marathoners, you know what your distances are this week. Once I get back to my own broadband service (some of us fly home today), I'll be able to nag you about them specifically. For now, sign in to say if you'll be out Monday or Wednesday night.

Hope you had good fun on Midsummer Night. You're all champions!

Walk: Mon. Aug. 16, Wed. Aug. 18 & Sat. Aug. 21

Panoramic view of Reykjavik from The Pearl.

Greetings from Reykjavik! We're having some email problems here, so sorry if we haven't replied to any questions. No doubt the next wave of Shore Things will be sweeping into the city early tomorrow morning. Looking forward to seeing you! Anyone who wants to have a look at more highlight pictures of our trip can check out my personal Flickr site.

This week's distances are posted on the blog. Yes, I'm going to make you look it up yourselves! (The schedule isn't showing up properly for me; probably related to the email problem.) Sign in to say where and when you'll be, and for how far.

Just want to remind the Reykjavik crew that Saturday's a loooooooooooooooooong walk. But then, you probably knew that.

Good luck to the gang at the Midsummer Night's 15K, too. Hope your walk is a dream.

Walks: Mon. Aug. 9 & Wed. Aug. 11 & Sat. Aug. 14

Surprise! It was birthday cakes (plural!) for Norma and Sharon at the Welcome Back, Trish pool party, graciously hosted by Lou-Ann and Paul. Great weather, great food and great company = great fun. 

This week, our Reykjavik crew takes off in dribs and drabs (thanks, everyone, for your good wishes), and Chicago starts to kick up the distances. Here they are for this week – including Saturday, in case I can't publish in time:

KW & Scotia Halfs: 6K & 8K (& 13K on Saturday)
Reykjavik Half: 10K & 10K (& 8K on Saturday)

Chicago Full: 13K & 8K (& 24K on Saturday)
Reykjavik Full: 16K & 6K (& 13K on Saturday)

Remember to do some interval training. It's so important to your overall performance! Sign in to let people know where you'll be and when.

A few Shore Things have also signed up for the Midsummer Night's 15K on August 21st – same day as the Reykjavik events. It's a fun evening race (complete with a pub afterwards), and always more fun in numbers. So give it a thought.

This week's birthday girl is Jeannette – girl, you need to get out more! C'mon down.

Walk: Sat. Aug. 7 @ Tim's

The evidence is in: Trish is back! We're invited to make her return a big splash at Lou-Ann and Paul's Pool Party on Saturday afternoon. Pot luck, starting at 2 pm. See you there.

Our Saturday walks include a 21K for both full-marathon groups. We recommend the 6:30 am start. You'll be happy you did once it's over.

Official summer start time remains 7 am, but sign in if you'll be there earlier (or later, for that matter).

The distances this weekend:

KW & Scotia Halfs: 10K
Reykjavik Half: 18K
Chicago & Reykjavik Full: 21K

Here's a suggested route for the long distances, broken into two chunks. We found this chunking strategy helped mitigate the length of the walk (or the sense that it was soooooooo looooooooooong) last week on our 35K walk:

- from Tim's, take the straight/bridge path along the Spit
- turnaround at the Rocks (before the bridge) for the 18K, OR at the end of the asphalt (just before the lighthouse) for the 21K – that's 8K and 11K respectively
- then take the boardwalk route to Queen and to the end of Neville Park for the turnaround – that's 10K
- back to Tim's for well-deserved coffee

This weekend's birthday girl is Norma, and we wish for a happy one. Cheers, everyone. Next time I write to you, I'll be packing for Reykjavik.

Walks: Mon. Aug. 2 and Wed. Aug. 4

Look at that glasslike lake. Wasn't it worth setting the alarm at 4:45 am on a Saturday?

The 35K (34K for some of us) crew had a lovely day for a walk. Yes, it was long, but now we know we can do it. We've done the training and nothing can stop us now. Keep that in mind, Chicago marathoners, because the same applies. Everyone liked the route, which I'll post on the blog for you to use in September.

This holiday Monday, there's a movement afoot to meet in the morning at Tim's, 8 am, rather than at Loblaws in the evening. If you prefer our usual evening walk, please sign in.

Our current weeknight schedules:

KW & Scotia Half: 8K & 6K
Reykjavik Half: 10K & 10K
Chicago Full: 11K & 8K
Reykjavik Full: 14K (or two installments on two days) and 8K

Why don't we do 8-10K on Monday? For example, the Reykjavik Full team can do 10K for endurance and a very fast 4K later in the week for speed.

Karen-Lee, if you're out there, we're wishing you a happy birthday! Sharon, birthday wishes in advance. Have a splendid day.

For those with a few spare minutes, take a look at this video of Iceland to see what the Reykja-trekkers will be enjoying soon. Note, despite appearances, that is not Bob & I you can see in the mud bath.

Walk: Sat. July 31 @ Tim's

Would you believe, the person who finishes the 35K first this Saturday wins this sparkling blue Thunderbird convertible!? (In our dreams.) Simply a little motivation for our Reykjavik marathoners, who do the big one this Saturday, starting at 6 am. The mind leads the body, after all. Think of us.

For everyone else, starting at 7 am:

KW & Scotia Halfs: 11K
Chicago Full: 14K
Reykjavik Half: 16K

Please sign in to say you'll be there, or to propose alternative times. Or vehicular prizes.

A great trick to stay cool on the roads: half-fill your water bottle with water or your preferred sports drink, and freeze it overnight before your walk. Then top up your bottle just before you leave home. We tried it this morning, and the ice lasts for about 1.5 hours. Thanks to the Toronto Power Walkers blog for the tip.

Belated congratulations go out to David Spall, who ran-walked the Nissan 10-Miler a couple of weeks ago. A report from Norma:

What is amazing is that he didn’t train for it and hadn’t done anything longer than 10k in close to a month and the night before we had a birthday party to attend in Grimsby and it was a late night. Plus it was quite hot that morning.  He did the race anyway and completed it in 1 hour and 54 seconds. Not bad!

That's true grit, David. It gives new meaning to the idea of cross-training. Well done.

We want to welcome home Trish, who arrives back in Canada on Friday. Remember to schedule Lou-Ann's pot luck pool party on August 7th to celebrate her return.

And a reminder to please send me your latest contact information for our Shore Things phone/email directory. Everyone will receive a copy of the latest version, so you'll know how to get in touch with each other. If you reply by email to *this* email, then the reply comes only to me. I'll forward it on to Sharon who is handling the update.

Walks: Mon. July 26 & Wed. July 28

The Shore Things are troopers. They say Toronto has only had nine days of +30˚C weather this summer. It feels like much more. The Humidex ratings have pushed the "real feel" well into the 30s and beyond. That has been a big enough stress on our system – though probably on the Reykjavik course I'll regret my lack of hill training.

This week's distances:

KW & Scotia Half: 8K & 8K
Chicago Full: 6K & 10K
Reykjavik Full & Half: 8K & 10K

If the weather be willing on Monday, we will do some hills.

The Unstoppable Couple, Margy and Rainer, once again shone as representatives of the Shore Things, this time at the Whitby 5000 15th Anniversary Road Race, a 5K event. Here's his report:

Margie came in 3rd walker overall and second female, I was 1st... a really nice event but low turnout. It seems that there were two other events, the Friday night Heydenshore race and the Saturday am Durham 1/4 marathon. All events on same weekend sapped participants from this event which was the only one to have a walker category. Too bad....nice medal and a Tim Horton gift card.

Maybe in future, when we don't have such a large contingent training for long races, we might be able to rustle up interest for smaller events. Shorter races can be about speed, rather than endurance, so can still provide training goals, but without the big time commitment needed for the longer races.

Mind you, yesterday Bob showed me a link for the Kilimanjaro Half Marathon, and looked at me significantly. That race is in February, though, so he and I would have to wait till he retires. Phew!

Walk: Sat. July 24 @ Tim's

It's a big thumbs-up to Eileen this weekend, as she and John tie the knot on Sunday. Will we see her on Saturday, one wonders? That would be true heroism!

Hope to see the rest of us for these distances:

KW/Scotia Halfs: 10K
Reykjavik Half: 11K
Reykjavik/Chicago Full: 19K

We'll stay at Tim's for this one, and will save the Beltline for another day.

There's talk of starting the 19K at 6:30 am. Official start for other distances remains 7 am, unless you set up something different via the blog. Let us know what you're doing by signing in.

Sharon is going to be updating our Shore Things Directory, so that we have our most current contact information. Can you please reply to this email with your details, and I'll forward on to her. Thanks!

It's also the Beaches Jazz Festival this weekend, and Susan asks:

Dan Hill is performing at 12:30 in Kew Gardens on Saturday - free of charge - thanks to the Jazz Festival. Of course, only some of us remember Dan - a musician from our past. Anyone interested in attending his performance?

Walks: Mon. July 19 & Wed. July 21

In this picture: Why I don't mind being on the Spit at 6:28 a.m. Oh, but the rest of it was a looooooong, hot 29K – or 32K for Ruth and Arlene, who kept looping back to join Mr. Hare and Ms Tortoise. We were all very glad to see the end of it.

This week, we're kind of all over the map. Here are our distances for the two days:

KW & Scotia Halfs: 6K & 6K
Reykjavik Half: 8K & 8K
Chicago Full: 11K & 6K
Reykjavik Full: 13K & 8K

For Monday those scheduled for >10K can choose to do your full distance, or break it into two chunks. You're on your own for the second portion. 

For Wednesday, the two September halfs and Chicago have hills on their 6K. The two Reykjavik races have fartlek (speed play) on their 8K. Let's sort these out when we meet, as much will depend on the weather.

On a little health note: be careful if you're a compulsive chewer of sugarless gum, as I am. The artificial sweeteners can contribute to runner's trots. Don't ask why I know this. But for reference, see "Ms Tortoise" above.