A Game of Tag

Denver Skyline From City Park

City Park Out And Back

Another night in Denver and another run on the streets. I decided to traverse a segment of the actual Denver Marathon course. I’d learned from the coaches and other athletes that had raced in the marathon before that one of the most challenging segments in the gradual hill along 17th street that sarts about five miles in. I left the house with my headlamp and reflectors in place and quickly reached lower downtown. I turned onto 17th street and settled into a quick, easy rhythm. The hill was sustained, though not very steep. Unsure of how far I might go that night, I decided to see if Icould tag the entrance to City Park on the far side of downtown from where I live. I could reach it if I kept on 17th street, passin the coffee shops, restaurants, and small stores that line the avenue along its whole length. when I reached the corner of 17th and York and peered into the shadows of the trees that line the park, I decided not to venture in but found satisfaction in making it out. I raced back along 17th street to the tall skyscrapers of the Central Business District and then popped up to 18th street for some variety on the way home. Before I knew it, I’d reached the house and had eight more miles down in the training log, a few more of the hundreds I’ve put on my shoes in preparation for the main event.