Post for 8/7/09
On the advice of my team of internationally renowned endurance training coaches, I’ve decided to spend two weeks at the Breton Center for the Study of High Altitude Physiology and Athletic Training (BCSHAPAT) in the picturesque village of Saint Briac Sur Mere (elevation 23.67 feet). In an effort to throw off the competition, I’ve decided to make this trip under cover of “going on vacation.” Thus far, my rigorous schedule has consisted of sitting on the beach (to counter vitamin D deficiency), riding around on boats (for improved equilibrium), fishing (honing the “killer instinct”) and attempting to impress my hosts with my rather lame command of the French language. On the advice of local experts, I’ve also developed a strict dietary regimen to maximize the impact of my training. This includes: seafood of all types, amazing baguettes with that perfect crunchy crust, immodest amounts of fatty cheese, red wine (to improve carbohydrate uptake efficiency) and a beverage locally known as “Tiponche”, which consists of rum, cane sugar, lime and nothing else. Generally served with a smile and a knowing look that says, “Be careful, American!”
And it’s hard to imagine a more beautiful setting for running. The days have been sunny or slightly overcast with high temperatures in the mid 70s. Generally, there’s a steady breeze and the sea air is enormously refreshing. It’s funny. I often think about the effects of NYC pollution on my running, but I don’t really FEEL the pollution until I leave it behind. It’s also nice to run in low humidity with cooler temperatures.
On our second day here, Marie’s dad, Benoit, took us by car to survey a potential four mile loop. The route follows along the seawall from just outside of town, along the main road leading out of town to the west, across a long bridge and into the next village. The halfway point is a boat ramp that leads directly into the water. (At left.) So. Beautiful.
There do seem to be quite a few runners here, but most of them don’t seem to be enjoying it much. For many, it looks like they’re doing penance of some kind; pounding out a few miles to make up for some transgression. With this weather and this scenery, it’s hard to imagine not loving your daily run!
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Distance: 4.33 miles
Duration: 32' 11"
Pace: 7' 25"
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