In the past two weeks, I’ve experienced severe running weather that makes me oh so grateful for the beautifully temperate conditions in Santa Barbara.
Rainy Run in Brazil
I ran at sea level in the oppressive heat, humidity, rain and mud of Brazil.
Today I’m more than a mile high with crisply cold, raspy dry air of Denver, Colorado.
On my second day in Brazil, I was led on a hike through an almost untouched Atlantic Forest to a white sand beach and lagoon. I scrambled up steep chutes of mud-slicked rocks, gripping onto trees, rocks and whatever else was within reach and would keep me from slipping down the slope. I was rewarded with the gorgeous scene below.
Unfortunately, even four days after washing my mud-soaked sneakers, they hadn’t dried. But when there was a break in the rain, I borrowed a dry pair from a friend. Less than a half mile into the run, I was running in the rain and may as well have just worn my own soggy shoes.
Still, the change of scenery was rewarding — and stereotype reinforcing. I saw banana trees, kids playing soccer in the mud and Brazilian flags flying; I heard chatter in Portuguese.
Worth noting: Athletic shoes cost 2 to 3 times as much in Brazil as they do in the U.S. Although Brazil has a wonderful selection of fashionable shoes, I do not recommend looking for your Asics there.
The Florianapolis Coastline
My run in Denver was less scenic. I ran on a treadmill in the fifth floor health club while watching “The Simpsons” and looking down on the convention center.
My lungs were howling before I’d even finished a mile. I guess elevation can make a difference. I persevered through 2.5 miles before I let myself walk.
My travels have been fantastic, but they have interfered with my Tough Enough training a bit. Of course, on race day, if it’s not raining or under 40 degrees, I’ll probably be so thrilled that I’ll run well.
