Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Endless Trails At Kill Creek

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!

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