Austin Runs

Spent the week in Austin for business, and was fortunate enough to stay at a hotel right by the river. All I had to do was walk across the street and I was on the system of paths along Town Lake. The first run was Monday afternoon after flying in that day. It was a beautiful, sunny day, and a lot of people were out to enjoy it. A multitude of folks was exercising themselves and their dogs. I ran 5 miles on the south side of the river from Congress Avenue west. I really enjoy the system they have in Austin, although there are a few places where you can make a wrong turn and end up on a dead-end. I just played follow the people and seemed to do okay.

My second run this week was on Wednesday afternoon, and the weather was much different. It was cloudy, rainy, and a little cooler. I still ran in shorts and a t-shirt, though, just as I had on Monday, and since I actually enjoy running in the rain it turned out just fine. That day I ran 6 miles, following the same path as Monday until I crossed over to the north side of the river and ran that path past Congress (where the bats dwell on the underside of the bridge) and then doubling back to Congress in order to get in the distance. That run was tougher than I expected, and I think the reason was that I had stood for the whole afternoon. Thursday was nice also, and I intended to run, but I ended up meeting some guys for dinner and decided to forego the run. Then I was going to get up and run before flying out today, but my right knee was sore and I did what you should never do - make the decision on whether or not to go for a run while I was still lying in bed. Rain is in the forecast for tomorrow, as well as some strong wind, so my plans will have to be flexible. All in all it was a good trip and I totally enjoy running in Austin. This particular traveler is grateful for such great trails and wonderful scenery, and if I lived there I would certainly be a regular.