Take your running off-road
Published: August 14, 2008 6:00 PMCultus Lake is a busy place in August. People from all parts of the Fraser Valley make the trip to enjoy a day of swimming in the refreshing water, to eat double scoop ice cream cones or to simply lounge on the sandy beaches. In October, however, Cultus Lake will look a little different. On October 18th, the beach dwellers will be replaced by a flock of ambitious runners, excited to embark on a run around the lake. Yes, you are reading correctly: run around the lake.
Hosted by the Vedder Running Club, “Around the Lake Give’r Take 30” is a 30 kilometer trail run around picturesque Cultus Lake. There is a relay option as well, in which each partner runs approximately half the distance. The race is primarily on forested trails, from single track to old logging roads. Calling the run ‘hilly’ would be a vast understatement. One only has to look at the mountains which surround the lake to appreciate the accomplishment of the race participants.
While a 30 kilometer trail race or 14 to 16 kilometer relay may be too ambitious for someone new to running, it provides a great challenge to the seasoned runner. Trail running is a challenging alternative to the monotony of pavement pounding. The hills are usually steeper, and the ground is inconsistent, and the trail offers roots, rocks and twisting turns. The steep ascents and testing terrain are not without reward. Breathtaking views and peaceful, natural surroundings make the challenge worthwhile.
If the notion of running around Cultus Lake makes your muscles twitch with excitement, you can register online at www.aroundthelakegivertake30.ca. With two months to go, completing the race may be too ambitious of a goal for the couch surfer. However, if you have been running regularly, and are comfortable with a 10 kilometer distance, now is the time to start training. Start by integrating one or two trail runs into your weekly running schedule. Be prepared to run a little slower on the trails, as you need to watch your footing. Keep your eyes open, and run with a slightly shorter stride. This will allow you to negotiate any difficult terrain with greater ease. The Vedder Running Club will be hosting training runs. For more information, go to www.aroundthelakegivertake30.ca/trainingruns.html.
Last year, I was begged, pleaded and bribed to run the first half of the trail race. From my experience, I will leave you with my five favourite things about the run:
The scenery: Vedder Mountain in the fall is spectacular!
The aid stations: Usually race volunteers supply sports drinks and water at aid stations. The Around the Lake race committee knows how to do the aid station right! They provide candy, chocolate and sports drinks to keep you energized. Not to mention, the Vedder Running Club provides hot soup and fresh baking at the finish line!
Being able to walk during the race: Sometimes the terrain wasn’t suitable for running. Walking during a race is somewhat liberating!
The hoodie: With your registration fees, you get a warm, cozy hoodie. It is perfect to wear after the race, and a great way to show off the accomplishment of finishing the race!
The finish line: Really, isn’t the finish line always the best part about a race?
Tanja Shaw is a Kinesiologist and personal trainer, specializing in weight loss, golf fitness, pre and postnatal fitness, and exercise therapy. She owns Ascend Fitness Coaching, which offers personalized fitness coaching, group fitness, and in home fitness in the Chilliwack area. If you have a health and fitness question, or have a suggestion for a column topic, e-mail Tanja at tanja@ascendfitnesscoaching.com.
Chilliwack search and rescue
Vedder Mtn. Trail Assoc
Chiiliwack Track and Field Club
