Having run very little and ridden more than most rats this season, me and my companion rat decided to get back to the trails this fall. The Fall Fell 7-Mile Trail Run at Kill Creek Park in Olathe seemed to fit the bill.
It was a windy and slightly cool start, but really perfect running weather for rats. I actually wore shorts and a wicking short sleeved shirt. Rats look funny in those things, but you have to cover up!
The trail route consisted of several "lolly pops," and I thought I was going to be made to look like candy by day's end. The first section, on the hillside below Shelter #1, was very nice. Wooded with one field crossing. Made for rats. What I didn't like is the lady running with her frenetically panting dog behind me. I can't stand people who huff and puff, and dogs really make a rat nervous. Heel? Anyone? Doggie discipline? I let them pass just to ease my mind.
The route descended to the creek and we crossed it after a short road run. Then it was up and gnarly with rocks everywhere. This was rat heaven. I caught the panting dog and passed them. I was then passed by another dog which was much better at staying the hell out of my way! The owner was a guy and he was moving... how did he get behind me?
Then the confusion hit... I kept seeing the same rats. What the...??? Lolly pop lolly pop oh lolly lolly lolly lolly pop [pop]. Right hand turns only. Guess not for about 12 twelve rats. One left turn and you are screwed on this course. So I saw many rats more than one time, never knowing if I messed up and turned the wrong way. Many turns were not well marked, not marked at all, or unattended on this course. I think some rats filed complaints at the end.
Anyway, I finally reached the creek again at about the time I though I should and headed back to shelter #1. Two more ambiguous right turns took me home in 1:14 and some change. I targeted 1:15, so rats can be consistent with some practice!
Kill Creek was a beautiful park. Rat's like me would love it. I will be back this fall/winter to get lost on my own. I don't need a bad course plan to do that... and there will be no fee! Lovely!
