October 08, 2010 – This fall, for a change of pace, I decided to finish my hard block of training by competing in Vancouver’s infamous Grouse Grind Mountain Run.  After a block of big volume and high intensity I flew to Vancouver to spend three days relaxing in beautiful Kitsilano and run the Grind.

Calling this event a run is a bit of a stretch. Measuring 2.9km, the trail up Grouse Mountain takes nearly 30 minutes to climb; it’s really more of a power hike. This race is one of the hardest 30-minute workouts out there and, after starting maybe a bit too fast with the eventual winners, I was able to finish in 5th place. This on a rainy, foggy day that saw the Men’s course record shattered by the day’s winner. I am keen to have another crack at the race after this humbling first accent.

Following the race the weather cleared and we were able to thoroughly enjoy a couple of gorgeous Vancouver afternoons wandering around heavily caffeinated after indulging at the renowned coffee shops of the Kitsilano area (49th Parallel, Artigiano, etc). Decent.

Unfortunately this little weekend jet set seems to have taken a greater toll than anticipated, and the following week I came down with a cold.  This left me unable to attend the team’s volume training camp in Jasper.  I was disappointed for sure, but these things happen.  When an athlete gets sick it is usually a message from the body to slow down and take a breather, so that’s what I did.  Lots of sleep, countless cups of tea, loads of vitamins and three days later, I am feeling like myself again.

The weather has finally perked up here in Canmore.  This place is really hard to beat on a nice fall day, the golden leaves contrast so beautifully with the incredibly blue sky.  So for the next few days, until the Haig Glacier volume camp planned for next week, I am going to slowly ramp up my training again and enjoy this sunny fall weather as much as I can.  With the unmistakable bite to the morning air, it’s obvious that winter (and the racing season) will soon be upon us.