Wednesday, December 2, 2009

"Night Running"

I used to run at night in Boulder. After a long day on campus, I loved to run around the city at night. I remember, after I would finish my run, hearing tales of crimes against women on the streets where I had just run, but these stories did not deter me from my nightly outings. I loved the darkness and the clear sky (Boulder has many days of no rain), and the cars and dodging the people walking and the other obstacles...

Taking these memories, I tried to re-create this sense of wonder on the streets Monday night. I suited up in warm (and of course dark clothes) and leashed Grendel, and off we went. We cruised up and down the rolling streets, under streetlamps and around blind turns. This time there were more nerves than I remember... I surmised it was because - there were less people, less cars, less streetlamps, less . . . But, maybe it was just because I am not in my early 20's and as brave? Regardless, it was enjoyable; the moon was full; the streets were quiet, and there are advantages to less people and dogs out - less reasons for Grendel to pull my arm strongly.

I think I will try it again...

2 comments:

David Ray said...

I want to do some night running too. But on the trails. I need to find someplace close that won't have the cops looking for me if I'm out there after dark. :)

Sara said...

Yeah - the trail running would be most ideal... haha - that is another advantage to living out west - i think it is more accepted (or maybe easier to get away)... Again, reading Born to Run inspired me to try it again... I do like it