2008 Garden Training Runs
Everybody is welcome - Just Show Up!

Car Break-Ins
At the May 22nd run, while we were out running, two cars were broken into
and items were stolen.  The police have been notified.  Please don't leave
valuables in plain view.  From now on, one of us will stay in the parking lot
during the run to prevent this from happening again.

Garden of the Gods at the April 17th Training Run
Photo courtesy Harsha Nagaraj

 
Garden of the Gods at the April 24th Training Run
Photo courtesy Harsha Nagaraj

What: Garden Training Runs

Organized By: Pikes Peak Road Runners

Why: To get ready for the Garden of the Gods 10 Mile Run on June 8, or just to participate in some group training.

When: 6:00 - 7:00 AM on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, Apr 1 - June 5

Where: Garden of the Gods Park, north parking lot, adjacent to Kissing Camels rock formation. View map.

Protocol: We split into 3-4 groups based on ability.  Each group runs together (or at least starts together) at a pace that is generally within the ability of the group members.  The group lead can decide the route and any other training features, e.g., intervals, etc.  Workouts last about an hour (give or take a few minutes).  Routes vary from workout to workout, and are usually within the confines of the Garden of the Gods Park, although sometimes a group will explore neighborhoods and trails that are adjacent to the park.

• Front-of-the-Packers Group (aka Push-The-Pace Group) - Run 8 minute miles or faster (or thereabouts)
• Middle-of-the-Packers Group - Run 8-10 minute miles (or thereabouts)
• Back-of-the-Packers Group (aka Social Group) - Run 10+ minute miles (or thereabouts).  This group will typically "loop back" at the crest of each hill, and go back and pickup the slower members of the group.  This allows the group to stay together throughout most of the workout.
• Trail Runners Group - Includes all ability levels.

Incentives:

• The beauty of running in the Garden is enough to get those endorphins exploding.
• Runners attending 8 or more workouts are given a free shirt from past races, courtesy of the Triple Crown of Running.
• Group training with others of similar abilities provides great motivation.
• Excellent way to start the day off on the right foot (or left foot).
• Prize drawings at the last workout on June 5th.

Contact: Dave Sorenson (473-7848, evenings)

Previous Years Stats: 2007, 2006, 2005

Dress Rehearsal Dates: On Saturdays, May 17 and May 24 at 7:00 am, we'll have a dress rehearsal training run of the entire 10 mile course.  We'll run the full 10-mile course starting/finishing at Memorial Park in Manitou Springs.  Runners will need to carry their own water.

Attendance