The Race Name
Although I was afraid to do it, because the returns I'd get might be inappropriate, I googled "Fat Ass Races". Here's what I found about the name:
In 1978 long-distance runner Joe Oakes of California needed a qualifying time for the WS 100. Not finding a local race, he started his own 50-miler. He dubbed it the Fat Ass race and touted it as an opportunity to burn off holiday calories with friends and drink beer afterwards. Oakes’ idea has spread from coast to coast and around the world. Fat Ass races have no entry fee, limited aid, no awards, no t-shirts, no whining, and no wimps. Source 1 Source 2
I have to say, Fat Ass races are a popular item in our area.
Another thing I wanted to chat about: roads vs. trails. You know, I don't think it has to be one or the other. Maybe I've been influenced by Rob and Eric - they run both with abandon. Maybe it's because there aren't any perfect trails nearby. Don't get me wrong - there are trails, most with in a half hour to 45 minute drive. There are even some with in a half mile of our house - short loops that have to be repeated, but still, trails. I don't run on them. Why not? Because running trails, alone in the woods, seems dangerous to me. The close-by ones are in the middle of a deeply wooded park. The park is smack in the middle of neighborhoods, with in a mile of the freeway, but seems so deserted. Running the trails feels like the middle of nowhere. The trails that I'd have to drive to are probably better for safety - but still. We live on the heavily populated side of the state, in one of the highest crime-rate counties. I think I'm pretty brave to head out into the early morning dark each day for a run - but heading into the forest is just over the line for me. Add in that whole left/right, directionally-challenged piece and you can probably see why I stick to the roads.
I'm going to follow Eric and Rob - I'm going to run trails, I'm going to run roads, I'm going to run 10K's to 50K's, I'm going to run relays and solos. I'm going to pick races because the location is beautiful, because my husband is running it, because my friends are running it or because it fits into a hole in my schedule. I'm going to be a broad-based runner who seizes opportunities and challenges as they arise. Keep your eyes open, cuz you'll never know when I might show up!
20 comments:
So, if I find something here in Georgia with the words Fat and Ass in it, you and Eric might show up? Cool! LOL.
I think this is a healthy approach to running. Ok, back to school work, I'm nearly drowning at the moment. One more day to get through.
woo hoo! and a runner you are - long-distance, at that :) I'll keep my eyes open...
yeah, yeah , yeah, burly women athlete is afraid of something? JK, I love the isolatedness of the trail running I've done, but probably will only do it with others or a scheduled race.
Have fun Saturday!
Jenny
Hey that's all good but would you please knock before you walk through the door in the bathroom? Geesh!
Just kidding of course. OMG we have created a running monster! Oh I forgot, you got me into running didn't you.
Off to another adventure this weekend. Don't forget your bumbershoot. By the way.. did you buy those nappies for me? I just wanted to try the whole space diaper thing out running along going crinkle crinkle and stuff.
Eric
We lack decent trails in my part of Germany so I am forced to do a lot of road races. At least I live in a low crime area, I haven't heard of any runners being mugged around here. I know I feel safer running here than I do when I visit my parents in NY state.
I love the tone of your last paragraph. And cool background info on the fat ass runs!
Safety first, definitely!
And I agree, run and race where ever you want!
I like your attitude. Run anywhere you want, and don't where you don't.
How are your new shoes? Was that salesman correct?
You have to go with your gut. There are some trails I feel fine on by myself. And there are others that I don't really want to be on by myself, even in the light of day.
Have a great time this weekend!
This last paragraph is like a song. The words fall one after the other, as if a drum beats in your soul.
I think this is the perfect running plan, and one that will keep you always loving what you do and coming back for more!
I don't run the trails close to my house for the same reason as you: It just makes me uneasy. If I run trails, they are well attended ones and during daylight hours.
And thanks for looking up the origins of Fat Ass. Who knew.
That sounds like a wonderful philosphy for running to me. Running and racing shouldn't be about exclusivity.
Have a great time at the Orcas Island Fat Ass!
You go, runner-girl! :) Stay safe and run it all.
You go, runner-girl! :) Stay safe and run it all.
Great post, Michelle. Hope the 25K went well for you today...look forward to the report!!
Love the history of the race. And enjoy running around everywhere.
I like your approach! Enjoy your 25K.
"Half-ass". That's good! Hope you had a great race.
We have nice wooded trails here, and I would love to run them, but won't do it alone. I believe in exercising caution while I'm exercising.
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