I feel like I am finally getting my mojo back after a couple weeks of solid time on my feet and running in the mountains. I boasted my first 80+ kilometre week in MONTHS. I love seeing that upward curve on Strava.
Two weeks ago I ra part of the annual Bragging Rights jaunt around the West Bragg Trails. Barry joined me on the Friday for a 27-kilometre loop then the next day I joined Amanda for 26 kilometres for part of a 35-kilometre loop. I forgot how much I love running the West Bragg Trails. It feels like a lifetime ago when Rachel and I used to run there almost every weekend. I miss those days.
Then on the Sunday I was still feeling good so I finished my big weekend with the Prairie kneesaver loop. Surprisingly I felt amazing on Sunday. My stiffness would kick in a few days later.
I went back to West Bragg Creek on Saturday to put more time on the trails. The week before we had one of our usual spring snow storms. Thankfully we had a perfect morning for running. We didn’t see many people. Although we did see evidence of bears in the area – lots of paw prints in the snow. Thankfully we didn’t run into any wildlife but we knew they were watching us.
Porcupine Ridge
Amanda, Shannon and I trekked to Kananaskis to explore Porcupine Ridge the next day. We got a relatively early start as we didn’t see many people on the trail. We parked at Wasootch Ridge day use area and walked along the highway to the trailhead. Later we learned where the trail starts from the dayuse area. Last year when I did the ridge, I parked along the highway. Not sure what my reasoning was for parking on the highway.
We took a chill approach to the hike as it was both Amanda’s and Shannon’s first time on the ridge. I think they both loved it. There was some snow among the trees but not so bad. We were conscious of the looming rain so we didn’t spend time mucking about. Little wind on the ridge allowed us to take in the views and snap some photos.
We were on our way when it started to drizzle. We made it back to Calgary before the skies really began to open up. Monday – the Victoria Day holiday – was a complete wash in every sense. So much rain in most of the province.
While the weather has been crap over the last few weeks, my spirits are high. The swelling is going down in my foot and my lazy butt is starting to wake up. Shannon, who is a licensed massage therapist, gave me a consult and foot massage. She also gave me some exercises to do that will help with my foot mobility.
It’s all coming together. I am beginning to think I have a fighting chance to up my running mileage and get back into running shape. I just have to stay the physio and mobility course. Now if only it would stop raining and snowing ….
Have you ever hiked Porcupine Ridge? How is your spring training going? I would love to hear from you in the comments below. Are you feeling good?