Jake’s Journal: Garmin Connect offers fun walk (or run) down memory lane
from Garmin Blog
So I was sitting here thinking that I haven't been getting my miles in, simply because I've been a stranger to the treadmill and having to skip our daily lunch runs more than usual. But then I looked at my Garmin Connect data and realized that I haven't lost interest in running - rather I've found ways to make runs more interesting.
For example, tomorrow's Hospital Hill half-marathon will be more about enjoying the day with a 1:40 pace group led by and made up of friends from Garmin. And with 90 colleagues doing either the 5K, 10K or half, familiar faces will be easy to find. So using Garmin Connect links as my scrapbook, here's a look at the last few weeks, starting with a 12K event that will be tough to top:
May 16 - Bay to Breakers: With a bedazzled jumpsuit thrown together from an old Evel Knievel costume (thanks, Ryan) with a hand-drawn firebird (thanks, TK) and far too much poofy hair and argyle trim, I joined my buddy Mat as the fastest Elvii in San Francisco's version of Marathon-meets-Mardi-Gras (unconfirmed reports have surfaced about a pompadoured ringer, but we're sticking to our story). Later that day - after cameos on TV's live coverage and Examiner.com - I cheered Team Garmin at the finish of the Tour of California's opening stage.
Here's a quick glance at some other notable workouts in May (and another pre-race shot of my Bay to Breakers costume):
May 4 - Hospital Hill Training Clinic: Garmin hosted a great group of runners and walkers, teaching them how to get the most out of their Forerunners while training for this weekend's races and then putting the devices through the paces in a nice 3-miler.
May 8 - Corporate Challenge 5K: Running with Garmin speedster Justin, I saved enough fuel for the uphill finish and scored some points for our team.
May 11 - Hill workout with Peg: Good conversation helps flatten hills. And if not, don't tell me otherwise.
May 17 - Sonoma hike: Waking up early before Stage 2 of ToC allowed time for a scenic walk up, around and down the hills of wine country.
May 22 - Girls on the Run 5K: While I didn't actually run on this day, I loved meeting founder Molly Barker (above) and cheering these great kids and their supporters through to the finish. I was positioned before the final loop around the parking lot and assured everyone that they "get a victory lap even before the finish line!"
May 25 - 6 miles with Deena Kastor: If you want to shatter the monotony of midweek exercise on your typical trails, join an Olympian and record-holder for an insightful glimpse into the life of one of the world's best distance runners. It's much better if they slow down for you.
May 31 - Amy Thompson Run: This 8K is one of my local favorites as it winds through some of Kansas City's nicest neighborhoods, and this year's event marked a couple great occasions. Not only was it a great way to start my wife's birthday, but it served as a sendoff to my buddy getting married tomorrow. He wanted to break 40, and we worked together to do just that. I'm hoping my witty banter doubles as a wedding gift.
Good luck to everyone running a hot and humid Hospital Hill tomorrow. Be safe and have fun. Because having a good time doesn't mean you can't have a good time.
