It's the first day of the last month in a year filled with disappointment, pain, sadness and at times optimism. The events of the past 11 months give me no reason to feel optimistic but I do my best to have a positive outlook. Or is it denial? Only the future will reveal the answer.
I decided months ago I would no longer plan for the future. The plans and goals I made over the past three years went mainly unfulfilled. Yet, I find myself already making plans for 2013. Doing so makes me hopeful. It's all I have right now.
I decided months ago I would no longer plan for the future. The plans and goals I made over the past three years went mainly unfulfilled. Yet, I find myself already making plans for 2013. Doing so makes me hopeful. It's all I have right now.
So, here are my tentative plans for next year in order of importance. Some of you may be surprised where running falls on the list. I've done most of what I wanted to do over the past 40+ years as a runner, except run a hundred mile race, so it's time to move on the next adventure.
Complete the Bay Circuit Trail.
Last year I attempted to run the entire 200 miles of the Bay Circuit Trail from Plum Island in Newbury to Kingston on the South Shore. An injury stopped me after 103 miles so I have some unfinished business waiting for me. This time I'll be hiking, not running.
A yo-yo hike of the Wapack Trail.
I sort of have a love-hate relationship with this 22 mile trail. I've run two races on the Wapack Trail and the trail got the better of me both times. It's a challenging trail with many mountain peaks and great views on a clear day. Maybe I'll enjoy it more this time around. My plan is to hike the trail South to North, stealth camp overnight and return back to MA the next day.
Thru-hike the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway Trail.
This 50 mile trail in western New Hampshire begins and ends on the summits of mountains so unless you can get a helicopter infiltration and extraction, the total distance is closer to 55 miles. Depending on my physical condition when I attempt this, it would likely take me 3-5 days to complete. There are shelters on the trail but I would still carry a tent since I prefer softer soil to hard planks.
Thru-hike the Midstate Trail.
Hiking this 95 mile trail in Worcester Country from Rhode Island to New Hampshire would be good preparation for an Appalachian Trail section hike through New England but I'm getting way ahead of myself here.
Run some races in the Grand Tree Trail Race Series.
I have fond memories of my many Grand Tree races of the past. I met several good people at these races and always enjoyed running in different locations. I would love to get back to my trail running roots.
Well, that's enough dreaming for now. It's time for another walk in the snow.
Life is full of challenges and unforeseen events. I am happy to hear your eyes are looking forward. THe BCT sounds like fun! I'm also turning to hiking so you know you have someone to shoot the breeze with on the trails. Xo
ReplyDeleteEm, you know you're always welcome to join me. I just need to get better so I can get out there! Hope you are feeling better.
DeleteSounds like a great plan. I've sectioned the MS Greenway and hiked the Wapack. The boyfriend and I plan on completing the Midstate and the Metacomet Trails as well. Looking forward to your posts on Midstate and more of the BCT!
ReplyDeleteLeea, I may have to get some input from you on the MSGT when I'm ready to take that on, hopefully next spring.
DeleteI think back to 2009 and 2010 the races the training runs...I never knew what an amazing period of time that was until it was gone I miss the group I miss you...but when I think about it I always smile....monadnock sunapee if you want company count me in : ) xxoo
ReplyDeleteMich, you are so right. I’m thankful for those years, and the time we spent on the trails. I miss them very much. I’m happy I kept a written and photographic journal of these races and runs. Reading my old blog posts and looking at my photos always cheers me up, but the feeling is fleeting. I would be pleased if you could join me on the MSGT when (if) I’m able to get back into the woods. You just may have to slow down a bit for this old man to keep up. : )
DeleteLooks like a beautiful day to be out. good luck with all your goals and I wish you best of luck on completing them :)
ReplyDeleteDan,
ReplyDeleteYou have snow? Sounds like you have some good solid plans there. I keep telling myself I am going to do dome long hiking...even overnights but I have enough trouble fitting in my runs and races. Keep me posted about Wapac trail...sounds inviting. Good luck and hope this year falls into place for you.
Kevin, more like "had" snow. We didn't get much and it's gone already. Hope you have a good year as well.
DeleteI love these plans! I have been on a similar downward running spiral this year (as you well know), and the thought of a really long hike beckons more and more. Please keep me in the loop, Dan!
ReplyDeletePam, I hope you are feeling better. I would be great if you could join me on the CT section of the AT. It won't be next week, but hope to do it sometime in the future.
DeleteHey Dan - I can totally relate to both the disappointment and the evaluation/restructuring of new goals! I damaged a metatarsal last November doing a training run on the Wapack with minimalist shoes - my foot still hasn't recovered and I can only do about 4 miles every 3rd day or so without too much swelling and pain. I can however, hike, and took up my old 4000 footer goal. The Bay Circuit has been on my list since I first learned of it last year. Much of the lower 1/3 is quite close to me. Obviously, the Wapack is also on my list - I was unable to participate this past spring because of my foot. I would be happy to accompany you on either or both of those goals as a hike. Also, there is a little known 50k gem called the Warner Trail near me. I have always meant to run it as a training run for a 50 miler (was on my list for this year), but this may have to be a hike as well...
ReplyDeleteSo, keep us posted if you want company or just a goody bag drop on any of those...
Hi Ripley
DeleteSorry to hear your foot is still bothering you. It stinks when our bodies can't do what our minds want them do to. I'll have to learn more about this Warner Trail. You sure are welcome to join me on the BCT, or any other trail for that matter. I'll keep you posted of my plans.
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