It's time....

... for the 1st annual Grahaminator at Oxbow! The 10 mile event kicks off at 9am Saturday from the 1st Bridge at Oxbow park. It's a wonderful course with fantastic views, along with a few challenging climbs!

There is no entry fee, provide your own aid on the run, and there will be bananas and oranges available at the finish. Casey and I are heading out there this afternoon, to try and mark the route. (hopefully the rain holds off, so I don't melt). Maps will be provided as well.

Our Grahaminator at Oxbow race director, Casey Graham, is seen here rubbing elbows with this years NYC Marathon champion Meb Keflezighi. Casey is flanked by two friends in this pic, no cropping like she might prefer to make it appear it's only her and Meb. Despite the many rumors, Meb is not likely to appear at Oxbow park this weekend.

What is this course like? The Grahaminator at Oxbow has a little bit of everything! You'll climb a series of steps leading to an early challenge of a hill loop. Upon completion you'll get a nice downhill through the bison and deer exhibits. Next, a flat stretch heading to 3rd bridge where you'll cross the river into the woods. Enjoy the beautiful winding climb to the prairie loop where you'll circle it -- No taking the Prairie Short-Cut! -- and re-enter the woods for an up & down rolling section of the course, you'll approach another steady climb only to be rewarded with a wonderful downhill ! This should bring you out near the 1st bridge and you'll now travel on the lower trails along the river until you reach the climb for one more loop around the prairie. Back into the woods and head toward 1st bridge. This time you'll cross the river as you prepare to celebrate your success! Should be fun! Come on out!

http://www.co.olmsted.mn.us/upload_dir/pw/oxbowpark.pdf

If this trail run opportunity isn't for you... you can set your alarm and join the Off Season Striders (OSS) at Dunn Bros North in Rochester at 7:30am. They're planning a 10 mile route, but as always, you cad add or subtract miles when running with OSS. Following the run, they'll gather for some coffee and social time at Dunn Bros.

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Thursday's Team R.E.D. was another success! We had a good turnout, with a mix of runners and walkers brave enough to take on the howling, twisting winds, wow, that was something! We added an extra headlamp in the group, and a couple hand held flash lights as well. Sure makes a difference. (additionally, I was wise enough to keep us in town, mostly under street lamps!) -- As usual, I forgot the camera, but will be posting some pics from some recent gatherings this weekend. --

That's it for now... have fun!