Hill Training Begins, Thursday, 15 December

Some of us are starting some hill workouts on Thursday morning. We will meet at the Arbor Hill Assisted Living facility at Flintwood / Ridgefield Pkwy intersection. This is the facility just west of the Deep Run Park Entrance and right across the road from Turtle Creek Apts, we always run thru there during HMT.  Park in the corner of the parking light nearest the Flintwood/Ridgefield stop light, where we will meet.  We will meet at 5:30AM w/ the 5 min rule in effect.  This is the routine:

Warm-up: Left on Flintwood out of parking lot, Left on Falconbridge, Right on Idlebrook, Uturn right before you get back to Falconbridge, you then stop where Idlebrook crosses Falconbridge (Idlebrook is a big U) and Sorrento hill will be right in front of you.  We will do 4 repeats up and down Sorrento, and then head back to the assisted living facility.  If you are late, now you should know where to find us.

See you Thursday.

Todd Callis

 

Crank it up Posse

Looks like the time for R and R after the November races has passed.  Spring marathon training has kicked off and looks like most of the Posse runners are following a marathon schedule, at least for the short term. Schedule calls for 6 miles this week.  Giving a route that has both 5 and 6 mile options thru Waterford.  Directions are below

See you Wed .

Todd Callis

Waterford – 6miles

* Right on Ridgefield
* Right on Copperas
* Left on Church
* Immediate Right on East Waterford
* Immediate Left on West Waterford
* Left on Beaver Creek
* Left on Dalkeith
* Right on Glen Geary
* Right on Park Terrace
* Immediate Right on Rutgers
* Left on Dalkeith
* Immediate Left on Beaver Creek
* Right on West Waterford
* Left on East Waterford
* First Right on Sunrise
* Right on Cleary Preston
* Right on Church
* Left on Copperas
* Left on Ridgefield
* Left on John Rolfe

5mile Option

* Follow directions to the Right on Glen Geary
* Right on Windingdale
* Right on Rutgers
* Left on Dalkeith
* Left on Beaver Creek
* Right on West Waterford
* Right on East Waterford
* Left on Church
* Immediate Right on Copperas
* Left on Ridgefield
* Left on John Rolfe

Holiday Lights Run -- Runner Bill Sports -- Tuesday Night, 9 December

Anyone interested in doing the Holiday Lights Run from Runner Bill Sports (Midlothian Turnpike)? This is a 5-mile run -- not competitive -- and is a great way to see Christmas lights. Do dress so that you're visible - reflective gear, flashing lights, some have even rigged up Christmas lights to wear.

I'm running on Tuesday, 9 December, and would be very happy for folks to ride with me. I'll leave from John Rolfe Commons (our Wed/Sat meeting place) at 6:30 -- NO 5-MINUTE RULE. Leave a comment here or send me an e-mail at pobox dot com>.

Also, whether you're running Tuesday or Thursday night, send a note to Bill to let him know you'll be there. That way, you'll be entered in the drawing for free running gear -- I got a Nike bright yellow running shirt ($50 retail) last year.

3rd Annual Holiday Night-Light RUNS

Tuesday, December 9th and Thursday, December 11th at 7:00pm.

Please rsvp to Bill and let us know who will be joining us what night(s). Refreshments and random prizes will be provided both nights!

Run well, y'all,

Bob Allen

Run this Saturday 12-6 -- 10 Miles

Attached is the 10 mile route for Saturday. We will leave at 7am from
the ABC store at John Rolfe. The plan going forward is to start
training for spring marathons. Many of us are on the fence but are
starting the training and then going to see what we feel like in
January. Todd Crider and I are working on a training schedule that we
will get out to you all soon. If you are still only interested in half
marathons, the weekend runs will keep you in prime shape for those as
well. Remember to print out a copy of your route so no one gets lost!

Our Wed group is getting bigger. We leave at 5:20 or 5:30 AM from the
ABC Store. We have paces from 8-10 minutes per mile. Contact Todd
Callis if you want to be included on the Wed. distribution list. Bob
Kees also leads runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the same spot, so
contact him if you are interested in those runs...

So with so many options you have no excuse for getting lazy over this
holiday season! Hope to see you all Saturday.

Happy Running.
Kathy Boughton

HMT – 12-6 River Road Out-N-Back (10 miles)

• Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
• LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy
• RIGHT on Glen Eagles Dr
• LEFT on Old Prescott Rd (1 mile at Old Prescott Ct)
• RIGHT on Pump Rd (Get to left side, to run on Sidewalk)
• RIGHT on Gayton Rd (2 miles)
• Immediate LEFT on Westcastle Dr (Turns into W. Monmouth)
• RIGHT on Pump Rd (be careful, narrow shoulders!!)
• 1st LEFT on Waltham Dr
• 1st RIGHT on Alsatia Dr
• RIGHT on Walbrook Dr (3 miles)
• LEFT on Pump Rd
• Cross Patterson Ave (Gas stations on Left and Right on Patterson
for bathrooms)
• LEFT on Castile Rd
• RIGHT on Gaskins Rd (Get to left side and run on sidewalk!!)
• 1st LEFT on Derbyshire Rd (4 miles, be careful, narrow shoulders!!)
• 3rd Right on Heathfield RD
• Once thru entry gate to pool, TAKE DIRT PATH TO LEFT and thru fence
on to BELFORT RD
• RIGHT on Gunby DR
• 2nd LEFT on Bramall Rd
• TURN AROUND at Tarrytown Dr (5 miles – going to return the way you
ran out)
• RIGHT on Gunby Dr
• LEFT on Belfort RD
• Thru fence on to dirt path and onto Heathfield RD
• LEFT on Derbyshire Rd
• RIGHT on N. Gaskins Rd - BE CAREFUL!! (6 miles)
• LEFT on Castile Rd
• RIGHT on Pump Rd
• Cross Patterson Ave (Gas stations on both sides for bathrooms)
• RIGHT on Walbrook Dr (7 miles)
• LEFT on Alsatia Dr
• LEFT on Walthan Dr
• RIGHT on Pump Rd
• LEFT on W. Monmouth Dr (turns into Westcastle Dr)
• RIGHT on Gayton Rd (8 miles)
• Immediate LEFT on Pump Rd (stay to left and use sidewalks!!)
• LEFT on Old Prescott Rd (across from entrance to Godwin) (9 miles)
• RIGHT on Glen Eagles Dr
• LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy
• RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
• back in the way we came out. (10 miles… Congratulations!!!)

Posse: Wednesday, 3 December, Wilde Lake 5/6

Sure we are... wouldnt be a Wed w/out an early morning run!!

I was thinking 5 miles at 5:20 AM.

How about an oldie but a goodie, and one the ladies seem to like...
the Wilde Lake Loop:

• Right on Ridgefield

• Right on Poplar Forest

• Left on Fox Meadow

• Right on Gayton

• Cross Lauderdale

• Right on Cottage Cove

• Right on Church

• Right on Wilde Lake

• Left on Causeway

• Cross Lauderdale

• Left on Fox Meadow

• Right on Cutlers Ridge

• Left on Ridgefield

• Left on John Rolfe back to ABC store

If you want 6 miles then, go past Cottage Cove and make a Right on
Church, Right on Wild Lake, Left on Causeway, Left on Fox Meadow, Left
on Poplar Forest, Right on Fox Meadow, LEft on Cutlers Ridge, Left on
Ridgefield, Left on John Rolfe

See everyone Wed at 5:20.... oh and congrats to our newest soon to be
marathoner, Clair Norman... she is signed for the Spring Marathon Team
and registered for Shamrock!!!

Todd Callis

Saturday Run: 8 Miles, Backdoor School Route

Hey gang, I wanted to get this out a day early due to the
Thanksgiving holiday. For those of you joining us, we are running 8
miles at 7am from the ABC Store. I hope to see some of you at the
Turkey Trot on Thursday.

Happy Thanksgiving.
Kathy

HMT – 11/29 Backdoor School Route (8 miles)

• Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
• RIGHT on Ridgefield Pkwy (get to left side on sidewalk)
• LEFT on Poplar Forest Dr (1 mile)
• LEFT on Cambridge Dr
• First LEFT on Shady Branch Trail
• Cross Cambridge Dr (2 miles just prior to crossing)
• Turns into Stonequarter Dr
• LEFT on Cambridge Dr
• Second LEFT on Quail Covey RD (3 miles at Robins Nest Ct)
• LEFT on Gayton Rd
• RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
• LEFT on Lauderdale Dr
• LEFT on Edenbury Dr
• RIGHT on Careybrook Dr (4 miles)
• LEFT on Westbriar Dr
• LEFT on Stoneycreek Dr
• LEFT on Blendon Lane
• RIGHT on Cloisters Dr (5 miles)
• LEFT on Brendonbridge Lane
• RIGHT on Ryandale Rd
• Cross Gayton Rd (be careful!!!)
• LEFT on Baypines Lane (6 miles)
• RIGHT on Cloisters Dr
• LEFT on Ryandale Rd
• Next LEFT on Timberly Way (follow thru Townhome complex)
• LEFT on Stanton Way (at a round-a-bout / 7 miles)
• Follow to end of Cul-de-sac and back out to John Rolfe Pkwy)
• RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
• Cross Ridgefield Pkwy
• back in the way we came out.

Wednesday Posse: 5.15 Miles, Lauderdale

Wednesday morning, 5:15 am (5-minute rule strictly in place), from
ABC Store in John Rolfe Commons:

Lauderdale Run, 5.15 miles

• Right on Rigefield
• Cross Gayton then Lauderdale
• Right on Pleasant Run
• Left on Lauderdale (Dead End)
• Right on Francis Drake (apt complex)
• Left on Gayton (Dead End)
• Right on Fox Meadows
• Left on Poplar Forest
• Right on Fox Meadows
• Left on Cutlers Ridge
• Left on Ridgefield
• Left on John Rolfe and back to ABC store

Todd Callis

Saturday, 22 November -- 8 Miles -- Downtown Short Pump

Plans changed... no Blacksburg for Todd (anyone have ESPNU though, comcast doesnt have it!).   Anyhow, I planned on running 8 on Sat morning at 7:30AM from the ABC store.  I have attached an 8 mile route if u plan on running bring it w/ you and we will see you there, You can easily shaved a mile or so off the route if you want to.

If you are going to run Sat and you have any questions about the RRRC group that will be running from Dogwood Dell feel free to ask me on Sat.  The mileage really wont go up past 14 or 15 miles until sometime in Jan I believe... so it is a good and cheap ($10) way to start a marathon training program, and then you can easily scale back if its not working or you dont want to continue.  The benefit of this group is that you will get routes and there are lots of different paces out there, so should be someone you will find at your pace.  Also, as it the mileage gets up over 14 miles or so, it is tough to get those routes in the West End w/out being very repetitive each week.  I will plan on running some from John Rolfe too... but probably once a month or so.

Some of you have sent an email w/ interest, so make sure you do that so we can start talking about what marathons are out there and which one might interest you... may have to tweak the schedule a bit to get it to work.

Hope to see some on Sat.

Todd Callis

HMT – 7/4 Downtown Short Pump Route (8 miles)

 

• Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
• LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (stay on sidewalk!!!)
• LEFT on Glen Eagles DR (1 mile @ Eagles View Dr)
• LEFT on Doverton RD
• RIGHT on Blandfield ST
• LEFT on Church RD
• First RIGHT on Clary Preston DR (2 miles)
• LEFT on Sunrise RD
• RIGHT on East Waterford Way
• RIGHT on Rutgers LN
• LEFT on Rutgers DR (3 miles at Ormond)
• RIGHT on Glen Gary DR
• LEFT on Park Terrace DR (SAG #1)
• Cross Lauderdale (4 miles)
• 1^st LEFT on Ridgemere
• RIGHT on N Gayton
• 1^st LEFT on Hardings Trace WAY
• Bear RIGHT on Hardings Trace LN
• LEFT on Wilde Lake DR (5 miles @ Pleasant Lake Dr)
• LEFT on Causeway Dr
• Cross Lauderdale turns into Gayton (be careful!!!!)
• Second LEFT on Fox Meadow DR
• LEFT on Poplar Forest DR (6 miles)
• RIGHT on Fox Meadow DR
• LEFT on Cutler Ridge DR (7 miles, just before Cutlers Ridge)
• LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (be careful, no sidewalks)
• LEFT on John Rolfe Pkwy
• back in the way we came out.

Saturday Runs

Hey gang!  Hope everyone enjoyed the humid and windy race on Saturday!  If you are receiving this email, you have asked to be kept in the loop regarding our Saturday runs.  The plan for now is to run 6-10 miles through December and then come January ramp up for half and full marathons.  Todd Callis also mentioned the spring training group from downtown, info can be found at www.rrrc.org.  I am not sure how many of us will take that route.  I prefer the West End with some downtown runs thrown in vs. driving downtown each Saturday.  But if you want more organized runs with coaches and water stops guaranteed that is your best bet. I vote for taking this Saturday on our own and picking back up the 29th after Thanksgiving.  Hopefully I will see some of you at the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving day. Take care and happy running. Kathy

Wednesday, 19 November, 5 Miles

Hey all. Todd Crider and I are going to meet at 5:20 tomorrow morning for a very slow and easy 5 miles. Here is the route if anyone wants to join us for a freezing run :) Congrats to you marathon finishers!

Kathy Boughton

5/13 Run - Waterford Route (5 miles)

• Leave Shopping Center down John Rolfe Pkwy
• RIGHT on Ridgefield (stay on Sidewalk!!)
• RIGHT on Copperas Lane
• LEFT on Church Rd
• Immediate RIGHT (almost diagonal) on Waterford Way East
• LEFT on Waterford Way West
• LEFT on Beaver Creek Dr
• LEFT on Dalkeith Dr
• RIGHT on Glen Gary Dr
• RIGHT on Windingdale Dr
• RIGHT on Rutgers Dr
• LEFT on Dalkeith Dr
• LEFT on Beaver Creek Dr
• RIGHT on Waterford Way West
• RIGHT on Waterford Way East
• LEFT on Church Rd
• Immediate RIGHT (almost diagonal) on Copperas Lane
• LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (stay on Sidewalk!!!)
• LEFT on John Rolfe Pkwy
• Back in the parking lot the way we left

Pittsburgh Marathon, 3 May 2009

(I hope Paul doesn't mind my posting this on the blog. --Bob Allen--) Thanks, Todd.  Can always count on you to make sure we get some good pre-race hills into our workout!!  Love those hills...they are my friends...   Speaking of hills...I heard during a recent Saturday morning Sportsbackers training session that, after several years of non-existence due to the local sponsor pulling out, the Pittsburgh Marathon is back in 2009 thanks to Dick's Sporting Goods sponsorship.  It will be run on May 3, 2009 and if I get the green light from my better half, which I fully expect I will, I will be signing up to run it.  They will also have a Half Marathon, or you can form a 4-person relay (leg distances are 7.9 + 5.2 + 7.8 + 5.3 miles).  Pittsburgh is a hilly area, but I checked the elevation chart on their website and it looks like you start down at the river, work your way up the hills, stay up at that level for about half the race and then come back down to river level.  Registration for the marathon is $75 until January 10th.  Half marathon is $60.  Maybe several of us (or more) can put this on our calendars and visit this nice city.  Anyway, thought I'd let you know.  And spread the word.   Best of luck to everyone this Saturday.  It is an exciting time.  Todd, I owe you lots for your role in getting me back to running. Thanks.   Paul Harvey

Race Week Posse Run -- 12 November, 4 miles

Sorry I missed you guys on Sat, but I was fighting the Rainbow Station stomach flu that my daughter was kind enough to pass to me at the end of last week.

I think everyone wants to do 4 miles this week, so here is a fun 4 mile route from HMT.

We will leave the ABC store a 5:30am sharp.... shorter distance so we get a 10 min break.

Hope everyone has a great race day on Sat and I hope to see some of you as i am going to try and get out on the course for some viewing.

HMT – 12 November, Deep Run/Raintree Route (4 miles)

• Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
• LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (stay on sidewalk!!!)
• (1 mile just after Eagles View Dr)
• CROSS Pump RD (YOU MUST RUN SINGLE FILE after crossing Pump)
• RIGHT on Raintree Dr (2 miles @ Windbluff Dr)
• RIGHT on Falconbridge DR
• RIGHT on Pump RD
• Run on sidewalk on right side of road, when u cross be very careful!!
• (3 miles @ First entry into Godwin parking lot)
• LEFT on Old Prescott RD (this road is across from the MAiN entrance to Godwin HS) 
• RIGHT on Glen Eagles DR
• Immediate LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy
• RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
• back in the way we came out.

Todd C

Saturday, 8 November, Wilde Lake/Waterford, 8.2 miles

Hey gang,

Last training run before the big event. I hope you all enjoyed your 13 mile field trip with Todd, sounds like it was a nice change of scenery! Attached is the 8 miler route for both groups this weekend, remember we are in taper so nice and slow. As for what is next??? Send me an email if you are interested in continuing a group from John Rolfe. I am not sure who will lead or what will be next for this group, but I want to compile a new email list for those interested.

Here are some races through the winter in case you need extra motivation to keep running.

11/27- Turkey Trot 10K at UR

12/14 Blue and Gray half marathon in Fburg

12/14 Toys for Tots 5K West End

1/1- New Years Day 10K

1/25 Frostbite 15K VCU

2/22 Colonial Williamsburg Half Marathon (great race if you have never done it, beer at the finish :)

3/22 Shamrock Full or Half Marathon VA Beach

Most of these races are through Richmond Roadrunners, so head to their website for more information.

See you at 7am Saturday.

Happy Running.

Kathy

11-8 Wilde Lake Route/Waterford (8.2 miles)

• Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
• RIGHT on Ridgefield Pkwy (get to left side on sidewalk)
• RIGHT on Poplar Forest Dr (will have to cross Ridgefield)
• LEFT on Kleindale Dr
• Cross Lauderdale (BE CAREFUL!!!)
• Go into Apartment complex and take immediate RIGHT
• Follow thru complex until it dead ends on Church Rd
• LEFT on Church RD
• Follow Church until it dead ends at Wilde Lake Dr
• LEFT on Wilde Lake Dr (cross over Church Rd.)
• RIGHT Hardings Trace Ln
• LEFT Hardings Trace Way
• RIGHT North Gayton (Very narrow shoulder)
• LEFT Ridgemere Dr
• RIGHT Park Terrace Dr
• RIGHT Rutgers Dr
• LEFT Rutgers Ln
• LEFT East Waterford Way
• LEFT Church Rd
• RIGHT Blandfield St
• LEFT Doverton Rd
• RIGHT Glen Eagles Dr
• RIGHT Ridgefield Pkwy
• RIGHT John Rolfe

Ridgefield Challenge, JR Commons, Wed 5 November, 5:20am

Ridgefield Challenge will start at 5:20AM sharp.

5 mile option: Left on Ridgefield Pkwy, U-Turn at Gaskins at Dead End, Right on John Rolfe back into ABC Store

6 mile option: Left on Ridgefield Pkwy, U-Turn at Gaskins at Dead End, Pass John Rolfe, U-Turn at Cutlers Ridge, Left on John Rolfe back into ABC Store

7 mile option: same as 6 miles but U-turn at just prior to Lauderdale

8 mile option: run all of Ridgefield Pkwy until you get back to John Rolfe!!

Should be fun... looks like it might be a little damp, but should make it that much more fun even if it is. See you in the AM

Todd Callis

October 2008 Shamrock News

It is my intent, and hopefully there would be interested in starting to train for this or other March marathons in December, either in the West End or at Dogwood Dell w. RRRC. Also a good half marathon if not interested in a full.

Todd Callis

-----Forwarded Message-----

From: Amy Frostick
Sent: Oct 13, 2008 1:41 PM
To: toddrowena@mindspring.com
Subject: October 2008 Shamrock News

Yuengling Shamrock Sportsfest Newsletter
October 2008
Sign-up now! The Half is filling fast!
Sign-up for the 2009 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, Half-Marathon and Towne Bank 8K. The Half Marathon will sell out, don't miss this awesome weekend of festivities.

New this year as part of our Green initiatives, we have on-line registration only.

New Shamrock Store Item
Check out the new store items you can purchase through our website. New items are arriving each day, stay tuned for our new organic line of clothing.

Official Yuengling Shamrock Training Center
Join the staff of Final Kick Sports and Yuengling Shamrock Marathon for the training kick-off on November 22, 2008. Training schedules, groups and pacers will be available. For more information please call Final Kick for more details, 757-481-3400

Weekend Entertainm
Bands have been booked for the 2009 Murphy's Finish Line Festival all presented by Bob FM and 96X

Saturday March 21, 2009
9am - 11am Rock Star Parking

Sunday March 22, 2009
9am - 12pm Borderline Crazy
1pm - 4pm Snackbar Jones

New Green Initiatives Don't miss our new green initiatives for the 2009 race. Each marathon and half-marathon participant will receive a re-usable cooler lunch box for their finisher food instead of plastic. Also our Shamrock Store will be offering cloth reusable shopping bags. Everything we can do to help save our precious enviornment will ensure a safe and healthy running place for our children.

Our Awesoponsor

This email was sent to toddrowena@mindspring.com by amy@shamrockmarathon.com.

Shamrock Sportsfest Inc. | 2865 Lynnhaven Drive, C-5 | Virginia Beach | VA | 23451

JR Commons, Saturday, 1 November, 7:00 am, Downtown Short Pump, 13 Miles

Hey gang,

Our faithful leader Kathy is taking the week off. Once again thanks
to her for making this group happen!!!

Both the Novice & Intermediate groups are scheduled for 13 miles on
Saturday. The route is attached.

As always we will attempt to leave sharply at 7:00 a.m. from the
Rolfe. Im still attempting to line up a sag person for us so if you
of know anyone that would like to help out then please send them my
way. Thanks

Saturday is a wonderful opportunity to run a "test version" of your
race day. Try to keep everything the same, hydrate well going into
the weekend, enjoy the cool weather and most importantly have fun!!!!
:-)

Hope to see many of you Saturday

Todd Crider

11/01 Downtown Short Pump Route (13 miles) (Click for map)

* Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
* LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (stay on sidewalk!!!)
* LEFT on Glen Eagles DR (1 mile @ Eagles View Dr)
* LEFT on Doverton RD
* RIGHT on Blandfield ST
* LEFT on Church RD
* First RIGHT on Clary Preston DR (2 miles)
* LEFT on Sunrise RD
* RIGHT on East Waterford Way
* RIGHT on Rutgers LN
* LEFT on Rutgers DR (3 miles at Ormond)
* RIGHT on Glen Gary DR
* RIGHT on Park Terrace DR
* LEFT on Three Chopt Road (4 miles at Waycross)
* RIGHT on Lauderdale Drive
* LEFT on West Broad Street
* LEFT on N Gayton Road
* RIGHT on Causeway Dr (6 miles)
* RIGHT on Church Road
* LEFT on Willde Lake Drive (8 miles at Northwind)
* RIGHT on Causeway Drive
* CROSS OVER LAUDERDALE turns into Gayton Road
* LEFT on Fox Meadow Drive
* LEFT on Poplar Forest Drive
* RIGHT on Laclede Ave
* LEFT on Fox Meadow Drive (10 miles at Bothwell)
* LEFT on Cutler Ridge Drive
* LEFT on Ridgefield Parkway
* RIGHT on John Rolfe Parkway
* RIGHT on Gayton Road
* RIGHT on Quail Covery Road (12 miles at Robins Nest Ct)
* RIGHT on Cambridge Drive
* RIGHT on Ridgefield Parkway
* LEFT on John Rolfe Parkway
* back in the way we came out.

John Rolfe Commons, Wednesday, 29 October, 5:20 am, Westshire Run, 7/6 Miles

Bundle up again get ready to run fast. We have a 7 mile route w/ a 6 mile option as well. The faster you run, the warmer it will feel!! Lookout for polar bears when you get to Wilde Lake!!

The marathon men may be joining us again, so it should be a nice crowd.

A few new sites on this route, but should be easy to follow and the end of it is regular territory.

See you in the AM for a 5:20 sharp departure.

Todd Callis

CAUTION: Watch traffic carefully on Lauderdale -- there are no
sidewalks or any easy way to get off the road.

7 mile Westshire Run (Click for map)
* Cross Lauderdale and stay on John Rolfe
* Right on Lauderdale
* First Left on Lochwood
* Dead End and Right on Westshire
* Left on Lauderdale
* 2nd Left on Old Coach Lane
* Next Right on Lashley Lane
* Dead End and Left on Pleasant Run Dr
* Dead End and Left on Lauderdale
* At light, Left on Causeway
* Right on Cottage Cove Dr
* Right on Church
* Right on Copperas
* Left on Ridgefield Pkwy
* Left on John Rolfe
* Back into ABC store

For 6 miles
* Don't turn Left on Causeway, stay straight on Lauderdale
* Right on Church
* Left on Abbey Lane
* Next Right on Waterford Way West
* Next Right on Waterford Way East
* Left on Church
* Immediate Right on Copperas
* Left on Ridgefield
* Left on John Rolfe
* Back into ABC store

10/25 8.2 mile Run

10/25 - School/Pine Run Route (8.2 miles)


Leave Shopping Center down John Rolfe Pkwy
CROSS Ridgefield Pkwy (be careful!!!!)
LEFT on Stanton Way
Immediate LEFT on Timberly Way
Go thru Townhouse Complex (1 mile right before you leave complex)
RIGHT on Ryandale RD
LEFT on Cloisters Dr
RIGHT on Forestway Dr (will turn into Hibingdon Rd)
RIGHT on Lindenshire Ln
LEFT on Cloister Dr
Cross over Ryandale Rd (just over 2 miles)
LEFT on Baypines Ln
RIGHT on Ryandale Rd
Cross Gayton Rd (be careful!!!)
LEFT on Brendonridge Ln (3 miles )
RIGHT on Cloister Dr
LEFT on Blendon Ln
RIGHT on Stoneycreek Dr
RIGHT on Careybrook Dr (4 miles)
LEFT on Cloister Dr – cross Lauderdale
RIGHT Hollandale Rd.
RIGHT Gately Dr.
RIGHT Havenwood Dr. (5 miles)
LEFT on Lauderdale Dr
RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
LEFT Gayton Rd (be careful!!!)
Immediate RIGHT Quail Covey Rd. (6 miles after Random Winds Ct.)
LEFT Cambridge Dr.
RIGHT Poplar Forest Dr.
RIGHT Warren View Rd (7 miles)
RIGHT Cutler Ridge Dr.
LEFT Ridgefield Pkwy
LEFT John Rolfe (8 miles)

10-15 Runs - 7am sharp

HMT –10/15 River Road Route (14 miles)

Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy
RIGHT on Glen Eagles Dr
LEFT on Old Prescott Rd (1 mile at Old Prescott Ct)
RIGHT on Pump Rd (Get to left side, to run on Sidewalk)
RIGHT on Gayton Rd (2 miles)
Immediate LEFT on Westcastle Dr (Turns into W. Monmouth)
RIGHT on Pump Rd (be careful, narrow shoulders!!)
1st LEFT on Waltham Dr
1st RIGHT on Alsatia Dr
RIGHT on Walbrook Dr (3 miles)
LEFT on Pump Rd
Cross Patterson Ave (Gas stations on Left and Right on Patterson for bathrooms)
LEFT on Castile Rd
RIGHT on Gaskins Rd (Get to left side and run on sidewalk!!)
1st LEFT on Derbyshire Rd (4 miles, be careful, narrow shoulders!!)
3rd Right on Heathfield RD
Once thru entry gate to pool, TAKE DIRT PATH TO LEFT and thru fence on to BELFORT RD
RIGHT on Gunby DR
2nd LEFT on Bramall Rd
LEFT on Tarrytown Dr (5 miles)
RIGHT on N Mooreland Rd
Cross River Rd, turns to S. Mooreland Rd (6miles – Tolman Rd)
RIGHT on Welwyn Rd
LEFT on Walsing Dr (7 miles)
LEFT on Cragmont Dr
2nd LEFT on S. Gaskins Rd (NO S. Gaskins sign, so don’t miss it!!!)
Turnaround at Old Club Terrace (8 miles)
RIGHT on Cragmont Dr
LEFT on Walsing Dr
Cross River Rd turns in to Arrowdel Rd (9 miles)
1st LEFT on Carterwood Rd
RIGHT on Burgoyne Rd
LEFT on Georges Bluff Rd
RIGHT on N. Gaskins Rd - BE CAREFUL!! Stay Left (10 miles at Weston Lane)
LEFT on Castile Rd
RIGHT on Pump Rd
Cross Patterson Ave (Gas stations on both sides for bathrooms)
RIGHT on Walbrook Dr (11 miles)
LEFT on Alsatia Dr
LEFT on Walthan Dr
RIGHT on Pump Rd
LEFT on W. Monmouth Dr (turns into Westcastle Dr)
RIGHT on Gayton Rd (12 miles)
Immediate LEFT on Pump Rd (stay to left and use sidewalks!!)
LEFT on Old Prescott Rd (across from entrance to Godwin) (13 miles)
RIGHT on Glen Eagles Dr
LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy
RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
back in the way we came out. (14 miles… Congratulations!!!)


HMT – 10/15 River Road Out-N-Back (10 miles)

Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy
RIGHT on Glen Eagles Dr
LEFT on Old Prescott Rd (1 mile at Old Prescott Ct)
RIGHT on Pump Rd (Get to left side, to run on Sidewalk)
RIGHT on Gayton Rd (2 miles)
Immediate LEFT on Westcastle Dr (Turns into W. Monmouth)
RIGHT on Pump Rd (be careful, narrow shoulders!!)
1st LEFT on Waltham Dr
1st RIGHT on Alsatia Dr
RIGHT on Walbrook Dr (3 miles)
LEFT on Pump Rd
Cross Patterson Ave (Gas stations on Left and Right on Patterson for bathrooms)
LEFT on Castile Rd
RIGHT on Gaskins Rd (Get to left side and run on sidewalk!!)
1st LEFT on Derbyshire Rd (4 miles, be careful, narrow shoulders!!)
3rd Right on Heathfield RD
Once thru entry gate to pool, TAKE DIRT PATH TO LEFT and thru fence on to BELFORT RD
RIGHT on Gunby DR
2nd LEFT on Bramall Rd
TURN AROUND at Tarrytown Dr (5 miles – going to return the way you ran out)
RIGHT on Gunby Dr
LEFT on Belfort RD
Thru fence on to dirt path and onto Heathfield RD
LEFT on Derbyshire Rd
RIGHT on N. Gaskins Rd - BE CAREFUL!! (6 miles)
LEFT on Castile Rd
RIGHT on Pump Rd
Cross Patterson Ave (Gas stations on both sides for bathrooms)
RIGHT on Walbrook Dr (7 miles)
LEFT on Alsatia Dr
LEFT on Walthan Dr
RIGHT on Pump Rd
LEFT on W. Monmouth Dr (turns into Westcastle Dr)
RIGHT on Gayton Rd (8 miles)
Immediate LEFT on Pump Rd (stay to left and use sidewalks!!)
LEFT on Old Prescott Rd (across from entrance to Godwin) (9 miles)
RIGHT on Glen Eagles Dr
LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy
RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
back in the way we came out. (10 miles… Congratulations!!!)

Army Ten-Miler and Fleet Week Half

So this is my first ever blog.

Had hoped to make it to at least one Saturday John Rolfe training run, but trying to keep up with the Marathon Training Team schedule has been a challenge. Running the first 20-miler on September 27 with running buddy Bob Kees by my side for most of it was tough. Chris Schmidt, Drew Fratrick and Hank Cosby passed us looking pretty fresh and making relatively quick work of it. As for me, I finished the last few miles on empty, went home and puked.

Sunday, October 5th went much better. Ran the Army Ten-Miler on a comfortably cool morning alongside about 20,000 other pavement pounders. For those of you that may not know, the route starts and ends at the Pentagon and takes you past the Lincoln/Jefferson/Washington Memorials, Watergate Hotel, Federal Reserve, Smithsonian, The Capitol and numerous other famous places. Unfortunately I haven't mastered the art of maintaining my focus while running and enjoying my surroundings. Another significant and necessary attention-sapper was constantly planning my maneuvers through the mass of people - and I mean constantly - from beginning to end. But the result was a good one. Put in my first official 10 miler in under 90 minutes (1:29:44). Okay, so I only did it by 16 seconds, but I did it!

Now on to the next challenge, the Fleet Week Half Marathon in Norfolk this Sunday. I understand there will be several HMTers there. So far I know of Tiffani, Andrea, Mary Beth and Mike. Hopefully there will be others as well. Weather forecast is looking good, with lows in the 50's and highs in the mid 70's, so I'll keep my fingers crossed for another good race. Breaking 2 hours for the first time since the beginning of my 3rd running life (Jan, 2006) would be nice. But that's probably too much to hope for.

Shilingi-Moja, thanks for creating this blog spot. Hope to see many of you soon.

Good running to all!

Wednesday, 8 October, 6.5 miles

Wednesday morning, 8 October, 5:20 start, John Rolfe Commons ABC Store:

Wilde Lake 6.5

* Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
* RIGHT on Ridgefield Pkwy (get to left side on sidewalk)
* RIGHT on Poplar Forest Dr (will have to cross Ridgefield)
* LEFT on Kleindale Dr
* Cross Lauderdale (BE CAREFUL!!!)
* Go into Apartment complex and take immediate RIGHT
* Follow thru complex until it dead ends on Church Rd
* LEFT on Church RD
* Follow Church until it dead ends at Wilde Lake Dr
* LEFT on Wilde Lake Dr
* RIGHT on Causeway Dr
* Cross Lauderdale on to Gayton Rd(BE CAREFUL!!!)
* Stay to right side of Gayton Rd in turn lanes
* LEFT on Fox Meadow Dr
* LEFT on Poplar Forest Dr
* RIGHT on Bothwell St
* RIGHT on Fox Meadow Dr
* LEFT on Cutler Ridge Dr
* LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy
* LEFT on John Rolfe Pkwy back in the way we came out.

Saturday 10/4 Runs

HMT – 10/4 Deep Run/Raintree Route (8 miles)

Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (stay on sidewalk!!!)
LEFT on Glen Eagles DR (1 mile @ Eagles View Dr)
RIGHT on Summerwood DR
LEFT on Burnside LN
CROSS Pump RD and get to opposite sidewalk and run RIGHT
Next LEFT on Buffapple DR (2 miles)
LEFT on Singingwoods LN
RIGHT on Brookmont DR (3 miles at Stonemill RD)
LEFT on Cox RD
RIGHT on Cedar Knoll LN
RIGHT on Cedar Cone DR
RIGHT on Stonemill RD
LEFT on Cox RD (4 miles at Spinning Wheel Way)
LEFT on Turtle Creek DR – entrance Turtle Creek Apts (right before Ridgefield Pkwy)
Continue thru the apartments and CROSS Ridgefield Pkwy
Now on Flintwood DR
LEFT on Dawndeer LN
RIGHT on Sorrento PL
RIGHT on Falconbridge DR (5 miles)
RIGHT on Hickoryridge RD
Hickoryridge bends hard Left (6 miles)
Turns into Windingridge DR
RIGHT on Falconbridge DR
RIGHT on Pump RD
Run on sidewalk on right side of road, when u cross be very careful!!
LEFT on Old Prescott RD (this road is across from the entrance to Godwin HS) (7 miles)
RIGHT on Glen Eagles DR
Immediate LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy
RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
back in the way we came out.

HMT – 10/4 Raintree Route (6.5 miles)

Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (stay on sidewalk!!!)
LEFT on Glen Eagles DR (1 mile @ Eagles View Dr)
RIGHT on Summerwood DR
LEFT on Burnside LN
CROSS Pump RD and get to opposite sidewalk and run RIGHT
Next LEFT on Buffapple DR (2 miles)
LEFT on Singingwoods LN
RIGHT on Brookmont DR
RIGHT on Cox RD
LEFT on Turtle Creek DR – Turtle Creek Apts (3 miles)
Continue thru the apartments and CROSS Ridgefield Pkwy
Now on Flintwood DR
RIGHT on Idlebrook Drive – follow around curve
RIGHT on Falconbridge DR (4 miles at Pepperhill Lane)
RIGHT on Pump RD (5 miles)
LEFT on Old Prescott RD (this road is across from the entrance to Godwin HS)
RIGHT on Glen Eagles DR
Immediate LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (6 miles)
RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
back in the way we came out.

1-Oct Run: Pump Rd 6/5 Miles

What better way to start a Wednesday morning (hump day) and a new month than a 10K run with a great group of people. Here's Todd Callis' e-mail about the Posse run on 1 October:

OK, I am going to try and ask this w/ a straight face... everyone up for another Wed run??... i say that b/c i have yet to make it to a run since we officially organized. I WILL be there this week tho, I have been freshening up on my clock math all week and my daughter will not get anything to drink after 5PM on Tuesday night!!

I know Clair is out this week, but hopefully everyone else can make it.

Tried to throw in a little bit of some new scenery, but its not too unfamiliar.. route directions are below.

I have a bid going on Wed morning, so if we want to push it a little earlier or leave right at 5:20 this week... that would be great.

Will see everyone (that includes me) on Wed!

Pump RD – 6.2 miler

* LEFT on Ridgefield
* Left on Glen Eagles (1 miles just b/f Strangford)
* Left on Doverton
* Right on Blandfield
* Left on Church
* Right on Clary Preston (2 miles just b/y Brandyview)
* Right on Sunrise
* Cross Pump Rd turns into Sandy Bluff
* First Left on Vanna
* Turn Right, road turns into Coolwind Lane
* Left on Cool Stream Dr
* Left on Summer Stream Dr
* Right on Center Ridge Dr (3 miles)
* Left on Hazel Tree Dr
* Right on Pump (Be careful -- no sidewalks)
* Left on Three Chopt (stop light)
* Left on Park Terrace
* Left on Rutgers Drive (4 miles @ Empress Ct)
* Left on Rutgers LANE
* Left on Waterford Way
* Left on Church
* Immediate Right on Copperas (5 miles @ Church Ct)
* Left on Ridgefield (6 miles)
* Left on John Rolfe
* Back to ABC Store

If you want to go 5 miles,

* Follow above, After Right on Sunrise
* Left on Pump (be careful -- no sidewalks)
* Left on Carmon
* Left on Sable
* Right on Waterford Way
* Right on Abbey Lane
* Left on Church
* Right on Copperas
* Left on Ridgefield
* Left on John Rolfe

Maymont X-Terra Half

The humidity put a damper on a lot of folks today, still, how can the Maymont X-Terra Half not be a fun run? Post a comment and tell us how you did, how you felt, and anything else you want to say about the race.

John Rolfe 7:00 a.m. 9/27 - 8 & 13 mile options

9/27 Downtown Short Pump Route (8 miles)

Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (stay on sidewalk!!!)
LEFT on Glen Eagles DR (1 mile @ Eagles View Dr)
LEFT on Doverton RD
RIGHT on Blandfield ST
LEFT on Church RD
First RIGHT on Clary Preston DR (2 miles)
LEFT on Sunrise RD
RIGHT on East Waterford Way
RIGHT on Rutgers LN
LEFT on Rutgers DR (3 miles at Ormond)
RIGHT on Glen Gary DR
LEFT on Park Terrace DR (SAG #1)
Cross Lauderdale (4 miles)
1st LEFT on Ridgemere
RIGHT on N Gayton
1st LEFT on Hardings Trace WAY
Bear RIGHT on Hardings Trace LN
LEFT on Wilde Lake DR (5 miles @ Pleasant Lake Dr)
LEFT on Causeway Dr
Cross Lauderdale turns into Gayton (be careful!!!!)
Second LEFT on Fox Meadow DR
LEFT on Poplar Forest DR (6 miles)
RIGHT on Fox Meadow DR
LEFT on Cutler Ridge DR (7 miles, just before Cutlers Ridge)
LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (be careful, no sidewalks)
LEFT on John Rolfe Pkwy
back in the way we came out.


9/27 Downtown Short Pump Route (13 miles)

Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
LEFT on Ridgefield Pkwy (stay on sidewalk!!!)
LEFT on Glen Eagles DR (1 mile @ Eagles View Dr)
LEFT on Doverton RD
RIGHT on Blandfield ST
LEFT on Church RD
First RIGHT on Clary Preston DR (2 miles)
LEFT on Sunrise RD
RIGHT on East Waterford Way
RIGHT on Rutgers LN
LEFT on Rutgers DR (3 miles at Ormond)
RIGHT on Glen Gary DR
RIGHT on Park Terrace DR
LEFT on Three Chopt Road (4 miles at Waycross)
RIGHT on Lauderdale Drive
LEFT on West Broad Street
LEFT on N Gayton Road
RIGHT on Causeway Dr (6 miles)
RIGHT on Church Road
LEFT on Willde Lake Drive (8 miles at Northwind)
RIGHT on Causeway Drive
CROSS OVER LAUDERDALE turns into Gayton Road
LEFT on Fox Meadow Drive
LEFT on Poplar Forest Drive
RIGHT on Laclede Ave
LEFT on Fox Meadow Drive (10 miles at Bothwell)
LEFT on Cutler Ridge Drive
LEFT on Ridgefield Parkway
RIGHT on John Rolfe Parkway
RIGHT on Gayton Road
RIGHT on Quail Covery Road (12 miles at Robins Nest Ct)
RIGHT on Cambridge Drive
RIGHT on Ridgefield Parkway
LEFT on John Rolfe Parkwayback in the way we came out.

9/24 Run -- Waterford 5/6 miles

Wednesday, 27 24 September, run. Todd Callis has provided both a 6 mile route and a 5 mile route. We'll leave at 5:20 from in front of the ABC store in John Rolfe Commons.

Waterford – 6miles

* Right on Ridgefield
* Right on Copperas
* Left on Church
* Immediate Right on East Waterford
* Immediate Left on West Waterford
* Left on Beaver Creek
* Left on Dalkeith
* Right on Glen Geary
* Right on Park Terrace
* Immediate Right on Rutgers
* Left on Dalkeith
* Immediate Left on Beaver Creek
* Right on West Waterford
* Left on East Waterford
* First Right on Sunrise
* Right on Cleary Preston
* Right on Church
* Left on Copperas
* Left on Ridgefield
* Left on John Rolfe

5mile Option

* Follow directions to the Right on Glen Geary
* Right on Windingdale
* Right on Rutgers
* Left on Dalkeith
* Left on Beaver Creek
* Right on West Waterford
* Right on East Waterford
* Left on Church
* Immediate Right on Copperas
* Left on Ridgefield
* Left on John Rolfe

Carpool to Maymont on Saturday

I'm happy for folks to ride with me to and from Maymont X-Terra Half this Saturday. I'll leave John Rolfe Commons parking lot (ABC store) at 5:30 am. That should give time for you to pick up your packet and get to the starting line before 7:00 (start time). I can take up to 6 people.

Bob Allen

9/20 Run

Both groups are 8 miles this weekend. Below is the route, we leave at 7am from PT Works in the John Rolfe shopping center. Contact me at kathy_boughton@yahoo.com if you have any questions.

Backdoor School Route

Go out of shopping center down John Rolfe Pkwy
RIGHT on Ridgefield Pkwy (get to left side on sidewalk)
LEFT on Poplar Forest Dr (1 mile)
LEFT on Cambridge Dr
First LEFT on Shady Branch Trail
Cross Cambridge Dr (2 miles just prior to crossing)
Turns into Stonequarter Dr
LEFT on Cambridge Dr
Second LEFT on Quail Covey RD (3 miles at Robins Nest Ct)
LEFT on Gayton Rd
RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
LEFT on Lauderdale Dr
LEFT on Edenbury Dr
RIGHT on Careybrook Dr (4 miles)
LEFT on Westbriar Dr
LEFT on Stoneycreek Dr
LEFT on Blendon Lane
RIGHT on Cloisters Dr (5 miles)
LEFT on Brendonbridge Lane
RIGHT on Ryandale Rd
Cross Gayton Rd (be careful!!!)
LEFT on Baypines Lane (6 miles)
RIGHT on Cloisters Dr
LEFT on Ryandale Rd
Next LEFT on Timberly Way (follow thru Townhome complex)
LEFT on Stanton Way (at a round-a-bout / 7 miles)
Follow to end of Cul-de-sac and back out to John Rolfe Pkwy)
RIGHT on John Rolfe Pkwy
Cross Ridgefield Pkwy
back in the way we came out.

Wednesday, 17 Sept: 5-miler

E-mail from Todd Callis on Tuesday morning:

This is a post for the WEDNESDAY run from the John Rolfe ABC store, Kathy will be sending out the Sat info later. I am just going to do a mass email once, after this, we can get an email list going for WED so you dont have to get an additional email you dont need. We have a group that has been going for a while.. the Wed Morning Posse... most are now training for the Richmond Marathon. Right now its just me doing the less mileage but I think Lynde and Owen are going to start running as well. Lynde and I are in the 8:30 - 9:00 range and Owen is around the 10 or so range for paces. We will be running at 5:30 am sharp... when its 6 miles or more, we will run at 5:20am. Remember to bring reflective gear and/or your head lamps. Come on out, get that long mid-week run out the way early so you dont have to worry about it all day... its not as early as it seems!!

Lauderdale Run – 5 Miles

• Right on Ridgefield Pkwy
• Cross Lauderdale
• Right on Pleasant Run Dr
• Left on Lauderdale (dead end)
• 1st Right on Francis Drake (apartment complex)
• Left on Gayton (dead end)
• 2nd Right on Fox Meadow
• Left on Poplar Forest
• Right on Fox Meadow
• Left on Cutlers Ridge
• Left on Ridgefield Pkwy
• Left on John Rolfe Pkwy back into ABC store

Welcome to West End Running

This blog is set up as a team blog for the various running groups in the West End of Richmond (Short Pump area). Primarily, that would be the groups that trained together for the 2008 Patrick Henry Half Marathon but I'm game for anyone to participate.

Let me suggest some guidelines:

1. I can set anyone up as an author but would prefer to limit that privilege to folks who actually run with a West End group. An author can create a new post and edit his/her posts. New posts would start a new topic -- setting a time for a group run, setting a meeting place for a group run, soliciting running companions for a run, posting the route for a particular run, asking questions about running, posting advice about running (that's not in response to a posted question), posting information about races, posting information about special deals on gear, etc. We probably ought to be careful about hot button topics and stick to running-related stuff or to topics that we know are of interest.

2. Anyone can comment on a post. This would be the best way, for instance, to let the leader of a particular group run know that you will or will not run with the group on a given day. It's also the best way to respond to questions or requests for advice.

3. I would set up some key people as administrators. Administrators can add/remove authors and can edit anything -- at least any posts. I think an administrator can also delete obnoxious, offensive, irrelevant comments.

4. In the beginning, I would not set up any kind of challenge for comments -- no graphic-word to decipher and type in, no vetting of comments, etc. If the blog attracts spam or irresponsible postings, then that can always be tightened up later. However, my experience on my personal blog is that I haven't had trouble (maybe because only a very few people bother to read it).

If you want to be set up as an author, e-mail me at (shilingi dot moja at gmail dot com) and let me know how you relate to Richmond West End Running.

Run well, y'all,
Bob Allen