Toronto Power Walkers - Come and 'walk the distance' with us!

Tracks

2012-01-22T22:18:00.001-05:00

Tracks- for those who have not heard of them before - are kind of rubber slippers you surround (usually) the bottom half of your sneakers. The soles of some 'tracks' (sometime called by the brand name Yak Trax) have wire and others small little spikes/studs. They assist the wearer in not falling or slipping when the weather conditions are icy.

They can be bought at most running stores and today I heard they can be bought at non-running stores in various parts of the city for reasonable prices. My experience of tracks is that in this type of weather they are very necessary but if you are going for time forget it.

Yesterday I discovered something else. I have been wearing tracks for this type of weather condition for several years now . Yesterday I actually found myself with aches and pains I rarely associate with walking. I soon realized the source of the problem. It has to do with the style of sneakers I now walk in, the type of walking and yes those tracks.

Why ? I will now (no opinions with this girl …heh, enough with the smiles and snickers) provide my non professional opinion. It is as follows.

I use minimalistic sneakers which have greatly assisted me in straightening my knees when I walk. The tracks prevented me from fully straightening my knee and this in turn threw off my hips and we walkers know what that means. By the time I had finished yesterday my hips were aching, my thighs felt like lead and I very happy to take the tracks off. Having said all of that, and as Rorie would say, "whine whine whine" given the weather conditions, I could and definitely will use them again.

So here is the summary:
T - terrible for walking at a quick pace
R - required for not slipping or falling on ice
A - always required in icy condition such as Saturday past
C - comfort (physical) can be diminished but prevention in being
K- karted (play on words ...well I thought it was kind of cute) away by ambulance pretty well guaranteed
S -so dig in the wallet or the closet and get the soles and sides of your sneakers covered with those tracks

On a more social community note remember to e-mail Sue about your attendance at our brunch at Carol's on the 28th. Time to register for the upcoming year and share stories. Time to bring the gently-used or unused sports attire you do not want to use and swap the item or give it to charity; tracks (gently used ) are always welcomed.

Remember to just keep walking the distance BUT for those of us out on those icy roads I suggest keeping it - one track at a time

Staying Warm

2012-01-16T09:08:00.000-05:00

This winter has been so odd, temperature-wise, that it is easy to forget how to dress for those really cold days.

Let me use myself as an example. On Saturday (-15C), I wore two long-sleeved wicking layers on top plus a down jacket and a wind-breaker. On bottom I wore three-quarter length capris under my regular walking pants. On my feet I wore light wicking sox covered by wool sox. A toque and gloves completed my outfit.

So, was I warm enough? Well my top and feet were cozy but my lower half, face and hands felt the chill. I could have used a wind-breaking layer on my legs, a scarf or balaclava for my face and warmer gloves.

The cemetery paths were not perfectly plowed but we found areas that were clear enough and stuck to them. All in all it was really invigorating to get out and move … and boy did we ever deserve our breakfast when we had finished!

So don’t use the cold as an excuse – dress warmly and come out and join us.

Winter’s here!

2012-01-09T19:12:00.000-05:00

Today (Saturday) at Mount Pleasant there was a good turnout despite the cold, and later at breakfast, we talked about the WOW training that began this week, Thursdays and/or Saturdays which several members are participating in. We’re all out there, dedicated to “walking the distance” despite the cold weather, and I thought I’d try to capture this in writing. Here goes:

Toronto Power Walkers Rock

Tis the season. On wings the north wind blows!

Really? Oh, yes, winter’s here,

Not caring That we might not be ready.

One and all, we –

Prepare Ourselves, gleefully,

Without whining. Well, maybe not, but still –

Each in gloves and cozy socks;

Ready or not, we go the distance!

We see you, Jack Frost; And -

Laughingly accept your challenge. We offer

Keener Tuesdays, Enjoyed by the brave! Or try-

Running or yoga. Some do Pilates. We-

Resist sleeping in; that’s not so easy

On the colder days. But we always

Come through. After all, we’re TPW! So-

Kindle up that energy. We’re all coming through!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T11:24:00.000-05:00

On the morning of New Year’s Eve about a dozen Toronto Power Walkers and a few spouses and a daughter met in the Queen Elizabeth Building on the Ex grounds for the start of the 27^th Annual Resolution 5 Km race. We admired this year’s blue jacket with its up-to-date technical fabric and reflecting patches. Then it was out into the mist for the race. The mist became drizzle before long but Mary and I determined that covering our heads made us just too hot so we got wet hair instead. Susan and Alex took pictures and cheered us on.

Everyone finished in good time and after partaking of a few cookies at race end, we gathered at The Brazen Head in Liberty Village for brunch. I was, as always, struck by how convivial this group is. We shared reviews of the movies we’ve seen and the books we’ve read over the holidays, as well as our plans for the evening.

For me, this race is the beginning of my race season after a year off to mend my knees so I really feel that I’ve begun a new year.

Remember, if you plan to sign up for the Sporting Life race on May 13 and you sign up by January 15, you’ll receive a $50 gift certificate, essentially making the race free.

I hope all of you had a safe and happy New Year’s Eve.

Burning calories in advance

2011-12-27T11:27:00.000-05:00

It was the morning of Christmas Eve. It was cold, and a little overcast. Who would take time out of their busy schedule to do an 13 km walk? The Toronto Power Walkers, that's who.

I expected a diminished crowd, but as I turned into the cemetery, there they were...the whole gang. Everyone was dressed for the weather and raring to go. One walker was dressed in festive red and white with a candy-cane adorning her bosom. It was a lovely day. The usual chatter, and laughter and joy.

What a wonderful way to begin any weekend. What a wonderful way to burn off those "party calories". As usual the experience lifted my spirit and got me into the Christmas spirit.

Merry Christmas to our Christian members and all the best for the holiday season to everyone else, and Happy New Year to All.

Recessive Genes?

2011-12-19T11:57:00.000-05:00

Yesterday as I was picking up some roses for a host of a gathering we were going to that night .The clerk looked into my eyes in what appeared to be wonder. She then proceeded to tell me I have beautiful eyes and enquired as to which parent the colour of the eyes came from. I looked and seeing that she appeared genuinely interested I replied that when my father was alive his eyes were a brown colour and my mother, who is alive, has brown colour eyes. “ Ahhh” , she said in a tone that expressed wonder “Recessive genes”. “Recessive genes?” I asked.

“Yes recessive genes” and then proceeded to give me all sorts of information about recessive genes that she had obtained in a course she was taking at school. “Basically”, she said “they are genes that hide and come out in a later generation. They are part of your make up , they skip generation” I immediately thought of my flaming red head Scottish great, great etc etc grandfather who entered our family system decades and if not centuries ago on my father’s side . Folklore has it that even though the clan was various shades of black or brown in skin colour that red hair showed itself up in the hair of various parts of the body. To this day if I am in the sun long enough strains of my hair will turn a reddish brown hue.

Earlier that day I had been sitting around eating breakfast with a group of TPWs. The topic was health. It was not until this morning that I started to wonder about the connection between the topic spoken around the breakfast table yesterday and what I was told about recessive genes much later in the day. I wonder if for some of us we are now the beginning (metaphorically speaking) of a recessive gene for further generations not only in a biological sense but also in a larger sense of community. “What?” you exclaim.

Well think about it. 19, mostly middle aged women, of various degrees of health met yesterday to walk the cemetery in weather where you have to layer up to remain warm. We all walked various Ks and some of the community witnessed this.

Is it possible, is it just possible that in a larger sense we are influencing the health of the toddlers whose parents have absolutely no interest in physical activity? Is it possible, is it possible that in a larger community sense that we are (metaphorically speaking) one large pool of recessive genes influencing further generations? Is it possible that in walking the distance now we are influencing the acts of others not yet born? Well, who knows, I mean really who knows. We just keep walking the distance, recessive genes inside us, possibly the beginning of the creation of recessive genes (given most of our post menopausal state I guess I should leave this out but heh who knows....did I just hear a groan). Lots of literature around this month about the meek, the introvert, influence and the power of the one.

Happy holiday everyone. To one and all who walk the distance.

Tis the Busy Season

2011-12-12T09:22:00.000-05:00

Saturday in Mount Pleasant we were a small but hardy group, bundled up against the cold in coats, scarves, and assorted hats. Some of us went round once, while those training for Big Sur actually did the circuit three times. Or at least they said that’s what they were doing. How do we know they weren’t hiding in secret, ready to dash for their cars the minute the rest of us left? H-m-m-m-.

Breakfast at Passione was as always a great reward for a job well done. Has anyone else noticed that the service seems improved since we’ve returned there from our summer hiatus? The coffee was delivered to the table quickly, followed efficiently by a request for our orders and then our actual food. Nice.

We don’t usually offer platitudes or self-help in this blog, because this is not the venue for such things. However during this busy festive season when emotions tend to run high, I cannot resist sharing the wisdom of John Wayne, who said:

“Talk low, talk slow, and don’t talk too much.”

He’s an unlikely philosopher, I know, but reciting this under your breath is like counting to three, only better. It is simple yet profound, has a very calming effect, and has many a time stopped me from saying something I might later have regretted. Happy Holidays, everyone.

Margie

P.S. (from Phyllis). There were five of us out on Sunday morning, Two came for 2 circuits and 3 'walked the distance' (19k actually). Brisk but sunny. We talked about cellphone technology, education and almost everything under the sun -and the miles flew by.

Getting up and getting out…

2011-12-07T09:04:00.001-05:00

At 7:30 the alarm goes off and I am up, refusing to even think about my cozy bed. My husband sleeps on but the cat follows me into the guest bathroom where my walking clothes are all laid out from the night before. I dress, go downstairs, feed the complaining cat, tidy the kitchen and get myself some yoghurt. Bring in the paper and check the weather - still not too cold. What an amazingly mild fall so far.

I pack my trusty belt with water bottles, breakfast money, TTC tokens and my cell phone and I get on the tube. At Bloor and Yonge, there is a delay. How irritating – the restive crowd shuffles its feet, rolls its eyes and gets progressively grumpier, particularly as there is no communication from on high. I have resigned myself to being late (or maybe even turning around and going back to bed?) when a train magically appears.

Disembarking at St. Clair I get in some intensity training in my very fast walk to the Cemetery. Hooray, I arrive at 8:35 on the dot and there is my trusty crowd of walkers. Their bright jackets create a rainbow against the backdrop of grey fall trees. My heart warms at the sight and I know how much I enjoy walking in the company of this diverse group.

Most are in training for winter or early spring races and so their distances are building up. Newbie Ann and I do once around and then head for breakfast. We sip our tea and coffee and chat and others join us one by one.

By the time I leave for my Pilates class, it is only 10:30am and thoughts of bed are far behind me. Yet again I remind myself how worthwhile this all is.

A reminder that it is getting colder. Check out your winter gear, wear layers and don’t forget to bring water and, as you get into longer distances, fuel.

Still summer!!

2011-11-27T16:39:00.001-05:00

Twenty-one of us started out together on this balmy Saturday morning in Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Phyllis had us identify our distances so we could find appropriate groups to walk with and we were off! Approximately half the group completed 2 tours for almost 13 kilometres and the rest of us completed 1 tour for about 6 kilometres. It worked out well for breakfast seating as the 6 km group was just leaving the restaurant as the 13 km group was arriving.

Half-way through the walk, I began shedding clothes and ended up walking in shirtsleeves – at the end of November!

Sherry made sure our new member, Anne (a former runner) had entertaining company on the walk.

We missed our fallen comrade, Barb, who is recovering from surgery, and wish her well.To all our injured walkers, rest up and get better, but don't rush it. Healing is time well spent. We'll still be out there, when you are ready to rejoin us!

Our CFO, Carol, reports that we have enough funds to pay for some core training this winter. Stay tuned for details.

PS Our year-end dinner was so much fun, we're planning a brunch at Carol's house for a Saturday morning at the end of January.

Love, love, love

2011-11-21T10:57:00.000-05:00

The only thing better than having something you love and being able to do something you love is to share something you love with someone you love.

I can honestly say that I love power walking. I love everything about it. I love getting up and never ever making excuses to myself about not going, as is the case with doing sit-ups, for instance. I love putting on my power-walking clothes and lacing up my power-walking shoes, and heading out of the door before the neighbours have even awoken from their slumber.

I love arriving at the cemetery. I love the irony in doing something that will so certainly prolong my life in a place where people go at the end of their lives. I love seeing all the gals standing around in their colourful power walking gear like race horses at the gate; waiting for 8:35.

I love the beauty of nature, the sunlight or cloud, as the case may be, and the changing seasons in Mount Pleasant. I love to feel my heart beat quicken and my breath pick up a bit as I begin to work my body.

I wish I could say that I love 'gels', but I don’t.

I love talking to the women (and sometimes men) in the gang; all of whom have stories, advice and optimism that lift my heart and strengthen my mind.

BUT most of all I have loved sharing the experience with my friends. A few weeks ago, two of my friends joined the Toronto Power Walkers on our Saturday morning promenades, and they love it too. It warms the 'cockles of my heart' to watch my girlfriends enjoying the morning, and being part of our group.

I am proud of my membership in the Toronto Power Walkers, and wish I could share the experience with all of the people that I love.

TPW and Autumn

2011-11-13T16:47:00.000-05:00

On Saturday at Mount Pleasant it was wonderful to see such an excellent turnout! To those members who were not there – we really missed you and hope to see you soon! To those who have recently returned to the group after being away – welcome back!

Autumn is such a lovely season. The hazy sky of summer has disappeared; replaced by a bright blue so crisp it almost hurts the eyes. The trees are starkly beautiful without leaves, their branches twisting outward and upward. Autumn gives us a chance to catch our breath. Summer’s accomplishments are in the past, and Winter’s goals are ahead, but Autumn does not demand anything from us. From the perspective of training, Autumn gives us the chance to be quiet for awhile.

Soon we in TPW will be splitting off into different venues. Those in the Chilly Half, Big Sur or who have travel/hiking plans, will begin specific training, and others of us will continue at Mount Pleasant, doing one or two loops each week. But just for now, during this lovely, in-between, shoulder season of Autumn, we are all meeting together, - which is kind of nice.

P.S. don't forget our TPW dinner on Nov 21st!

Haiku for walkers….

2011-11-07T11:31:00.002-05:00

My fellow TWP bloggers have been upping the ante lately so I thought I would try my hand at a couple of haiku to describe our Saturday walk. We had a great turnout, including newbie Liz. It is great to be back at our lovely cemetery.

For those of you that can’t remember (I couldn’t) – haiku is a short form of Japanese poetry characterized by, amongst other things, 17 syllables set out in lines that are 5, 7 and 5 syllables long.

So here goes:

Carpet of fall leaves

Stirred by our tramping feet.

Walkers morning bliss.

Our busy lives shared

With warm words and scrambled eggs.

We walkers at rest.

Remember that everyone is welcomed to join the Tuesday Night Keeners. We meet at 6:30 at the pub or on the corner. And don’t forget our up-coming social on the 21^st at Harbord House.

Another reason to walk with the Toronto Power Walkers

2011-10-30T20:54:00.002-04:00

We don’t need convincing of the physical benefits of aerobic exercise. It’s now accepted that we’re mentally healthier, too, if we get outside regularly, especially in a northern latitude. But did you know that joining a group to get that outdoor exercise can increase the benefits even more?

Harvard researchers have found that people with at least 5 unrelated social ties suffer less cognitive decline as they age. The problem with ensuring those ties is that Boomers, as a generation, are not well connected to their communities. They work a much larger number of hours every week and have longer commutes than previous generations. They get their entertainment from TV, rather than going out. Only about 30% belong to a church or other faith community. When they retire, they lose what Bolles and Nelson call “automatic relationship generators” (school and work relationships.) Staying connected to communities outside of your immediate family requires attention and some effort.

McKinsey research declares that by 2015, 51% of Boomers will live alone due to death and divorce. Only about half of those people will have other close family ties.

Walking with a group like the Toronto Power Walkers can, therefore, have tremendous benefits beyond fitness. Staying engaged in a wider world keeps mental powers strong and interests expansive.

This week, while walking (and breakfasting), I heard about a memoir that sounds very interesting and that I would likely not have heard of otherwise, a recap of a lecture on the connection between nutrition and depression, the concerns associated with being an expert witness in a particular field, and discussion on employability and age. My world was broadened, my cognition was fortified, and my heart, lungs and legs were strengthened.

Thanks, gang!

Keep ‘walking the distance’

2011-10-24T14:09:00.000-04:00

No poetry or gushing words about how wonderful you all are….just excitement.

As you know, I enjoy walking, and at times leave people in the dust because my feet just need to move fast. I’m looking forward to all the fast walkers that are coming up behind me, or have even passed me.

I’m excited with our walkers – new and veteran who are taking power walking so seriously. I’m guessing that two rounds of training with Lee Scott had something to do with it.

I’m excited with the terrific walking and racing that has been going on all summer and fall. Many Personal Best’s (PBs) have been earned this year.

I’m excited to be celebrating at our year-end dinner on November 21^st, with all of you and your medals. Be sure to wear all of them, so others can be inspired.

I’m also excited with the plans that are being made for the spring and the winter. If you’re going to Big Sur, you have to train all winter, and many of us will be training with you to keep you company on those long winter walks. The cool jacket for “Chilly Half” is an incentive as well.

I’m excited and hopeful that we’ll have a few brave souls who will train for and walk a marathon this year. Personally, I’d like to go to the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington next October, and I don’t want to do it alone! I can however be convinced to do a different marathon, if the dates work out.

Looking forward to an exciting 2012!

Saturday morning

2011-10-17T21:51:00.000-04:00

I have been "power walking with the girls" on Saturday mornings since the early spring and every time I go out I enjoy the walk, the encouragement and the company. I love it all, but the thing I love the most is getting up and getting out in the early morning. I love the drive-to-the-walk.

In all sorts of weather: rain, sun, heat, cloud, and I anticipate snow, there are people in this city that are out and about at 7 AM on a Saturday morning.

I see them all: the woman well over 70 who is jogging, the dad who is out walking a baby to let mom get a few more winks, the old guy on his bike on his way to where ever, the walking-man whom I see everywhere I go in Bloor West, the young women in jogging in tights and tiny tops, the athlete bicyclists riding very seriously and in packs, people strolling together carrying cups of coffee and chatting.

I see it all ~ all walks of life and physical fitness; all shapes and configurations of humanity; all outside enjoying the day and using their healthy and happy bodies.

I have to admit that I feel both proud and grateful to be among these people. I feel gifted to be able to rise from my bed in the early morn and to be outside in a safe and healthy culture that encourages physical and emotional fitness.

As much as I love power walking and all that goes with it, I love being part of this community more.

Garmin Fun

2011-10-10T21:16:00.002-04:00

Saturday last, a glorious day,
TPW gathered in our usual way.
I was walking with Shelley,
Discussing our day.
When her Garmin started beeping
Oh, she said, it’s set for a pace of 9 minutes per K.

If I don’t go 9 min per K, it tells me to hurry,
I set it to pace me, so I didn’t have to worry.
Just ignore it, she said, but it made such a fuss,
Beeping every few seconds, it was such a distraction,

Demanding attention, increasing frustration,
She tapped with her finger but stop it would not.
We knew what it wanted, we quickly acquiesced.
We walked in tandem, keeping the pace,
Hitting our stride, running the race.

I had time constraints that day,
I had to turn back after a distance of 5K.
I encouraged Shelley forward to go all the way.
She started to speak, but the Garmin beeped.
She surged ahead, happy to go.
She and Sue B. were keeping their flow.

It has always been known going back to the cave;
That the slave becomes the master, and the master the slave
Who is the slave and who is free?
Before you answer, think carefully:

Do I own my Garmin, or does my Garmin own me?

I’m walkin’, yes indeed…

2011-10-03T10:12:00.002-04:00

The old Fats Domino song was running through my brain on Saturday as I joined the TPW gang for the first real walk I have done in two months. Just 6K but what a treat to be moving again. It took patience (and wine) but my stress fracture has healed at last and I have new orthotics to correct my dropped metatarsal. The foot was a little sore when I got home so I am promising myself to go easily until I am back up to full fighting strength. So any of you who are injured (that means you too Rorie) take note – listen to your body and obey what it tells you. We are in this for fun and fitness, not to punish ourselves.

There were about a dozen of us who came for 8:00 and a few who are training for a final race started at 7:00. It was a special treat to see Helen out after a hiatus. In true TPW fashion, someone always kept me company at the end of the pack as I struggled to get my pace back. What a great group you are.

It is definitely not summer any more – cool and the days are shorter. We have another week at High Park and then the Scotiabank race on October 16. Come out and cheer if you can. After that we will be back in maintenance mode at the Cemetery. That is a great time for anyone who is just starting to join us. Once around is about 6.5K and the breakfasts are delicious.

The Island Girl Half Marathon on Toronto Island

2011-09-25T20:39:00.011-04:00

Sunday morning was absolutely sparkling on Centre Island for the start of the Island Girl Half Marathon. Ten TPW members (Barb, Bev, Laurel, Lee, Margie, Mary, Shelly, Sherry, Sue, and Susan) crossed the start line, looking strong, at 9:35. This was remarkable because more than half of these women were recovering from injuries. The will and determination they showed was inspiring.

They had their very own cheering section. Jeanne, Susan’s sister, brought her bicycle to be able to move along the route to cheer on the group. Ron was there to encourage Bev on their wedding anniversary. Phyllis, as always, was there to support. She walked a good portion of the race with some of the entrants. Rorie and Carol, nursing foot injuries, cheered from strategic intersections. And I was just pleased to be with such an energizing group of women.

The racers passed us at 6 kilometres, 11 kilometres and 16 kilometres, before returning for the finish. At 6 and 11 kilometres, they were still pacing each other, waving and smiling. By 16 kilometres, the group had stretched out and the effort was beginning to show in their faces. Bev and Laurel were leading the way with strong form.

All of these fabulous females finished the race upright and smiling and TPW members took the top four spots in the walking entrants. Congratulations to Bev, Laurel, Sherry and Shelley and to every one of the TPW’s for showing how it’s done. They followed in Ela, Phyllis and Mary's footsteps who were the top 3 last year.

Update:Amazing results from the KW Walking Classic - Fastest male was Jeff Guthrie, WOW at 2:20 (6:39/k) and fastest woman completed the race in 2:25 (6:53/k). Well done walkers!

One Long Sleeve equals Autumn, Two plus Long Sleeves equals Brrr

2011-09-20T08:32:00.001-04:00

Twelve of us gathered in front of the Grenadier Restaurant. By the time we were 3 K plus into our walk we sorted ourselves out according to our pace. As we walked east Audrey (a former Jeans Marines member ) ran by us west bound . Depending on our own individual goals we collectively walked somewhere between 8K to 24 K.

There was very little difference in the length of our sleeves. Hands, for the majority of us, peered out from under long sleeves. Yes .....groan.....the long sleeve weather is upon us.

Rosemarie, on the same day that the 12 of us had gathered, power walked south on

Yonge St

. When I passed her going north on Yonge St, I noticed two people with winter hats and then ( dread ) several with winter coats.

When I returned to the lakeshore I found comfort that most of the walkers and runners had caps on. They did not have any winter hats on their head, no balaclava underneath their caps and nothing else to suggest (with the exception of the long sleeves) the soon to be change in the season. As Audrey ran past me east bound she also had the same attire.

By now you may have gathered that I am not thrilled with what long sleeves for the outdoor weather suggests. Maybe I will take comfort that Autumn official begins on the 23rd of September and that on the day I am writing this narrative people are again walking with arms only partially covered by short sleeves. This sounds like denial simply because it is.

We know .... we who walk the distance know... that soon our one long sleeve will be covered with two or three layers of long sleeves . For those of us who walk the distance we know that the wearing of the long sleeve is one of those weather indicators. It marks an upcoming change in season.

So for those of us who are new to the group I would suggest the following. Find or purchase thick socks, long sleeve tops that you can layer, balaclavas that fit under caps , gloves that are warm and do not leave your hands in pools of sweat for soon the W word will be among us . You will learn (unless you can afford really high tech gear ) that each layer will represent the temperature of autumn and the various degrees contained in the next season. A simply rule of thumb is that one long sleeve equals autumn and two plus long sleeves equals Brrrrrr.

PS the breakfast is always hot and the company always warm.

We’re on the move!

2011-09-11T22:10:00.002-04:00

Last Tuesday evening Sue, Laurel, Sue, Lyn, Mary and myself arrived, some of us reluctantly, at the Rosehill Reservoir for interval training. But I soon got going and as I walked, talked and laughed, it occurred to me that TPW members support each other in four very specific ways.

1) Physical Training: We began in the spring at Rosedale for interval loops, then moved to Sherwood Park for hill training, and now we are at Rosehill. On Saturdays we moved from Mount Pleasant to High Park and the Lakeshore, which enables longer distances. Lee is returning for another series of WOW training exercises. It is both exciting and motivational to try out these different venues. My body says, “Hey! You’re waking me up. Stop that!” Just kidding. But maybe not. New ventures can create physical angst but are also healthful for both body and spirit.

2) Something for Everyone: Members register individually for specific walks to support causes close to their heart. We also promote key marathons as a group, encouraging everyone to attend. Some of us participated in the Pittsburgh relay this summer. Several of our members have registered for Big Sur next spring. For those who have not we will continue our walks at Mount Pleasant. TPW truly offers something for everyone! No one is left behind or left out.

3) Social Fun: We love eating. Boy, do we love eating. Each walk is followed by a meal replete with lots of laughs and fun. Carol hosted the annual membership meeting, which included a delicious brunch. Rorie invited all toa pool party and some will be joining Phyllis for raspberry picking at her house! We hold our meetings at Harbord House - another great opportunity to have a meal. Show us food and we are there!

4) Encouragement: On two occasions when I was not able to attend a Saturday walk, someone volunteered to walk with me on Sunday instead. When we walk together we make sure everyone is ok. If someone takes a bit longer we are waiting for them at the end to congratulate and cheer. And there is always, always, concern for those who are injured and much well wishing for their quick and speedy recovery.

So this is what I enjoy so much about Toronto Power Walkers. Athletically, socially, and empathetically - we are there for each other all the time and in so many ways!

Blogging from the sidelines

2011-09-05T13:42:00.000-04:00

About a month ago, after a long walk, I started to feel some stress in my left foot that escalated to pain over the next two weeks. Finally went to the foot specialist and got it diagnosed. I have a stress fracture in a previously unacknowledged little bone on the top of my left foot and (to add insult to injury) a dropped metatarsal (some other bone along the ball of the foot). The cure, for the fracture, is time (about 6 weeks in total) and not over-using my foot and, for the metatarsal, a new set of orthotics. No biggie in the scheme of things but not being able to walk has made me very aware of how much I rely on being able to do so. And how much I love it.

The ‘why’ of my injury seems to be (and I hate this) ‘age’ but I suspect that I should have changed my shoes earlier. So two lessons learned – change your shoes regularly and do not try to walk through the kind of pain that is your body’s way of saying ‘go to the doctor’.

I have been looking for the silver lining and come up with three things – I am being forced to use my right side (apparently my weaker side) more; I have time to go to Pilates; and, I confess, sleeping in on Saturday isn’t all that bad. Oh, and I have new empathy for everyone battling with injuries. Susan, Bev, Linda, Carol and Rorie – take care of yourselves.

But I miss my Walkers! I joined the gang for breakfast on Saturday. Most seem to have done about 16K (seems like an unbelievable distance from the perspective of having problems hobbling a block). The breakfast was delicious even though I hadn’t earned it and the conversation as warm and embracing as always.

Tuesdays we are training at the Reservoir (south on Yonge from St Clair. ) doing intensity training, and eating nearby on Yonge Street.

Islands in the Mist

2011-08-28T21:41:00.000-04:00

This weekend I had hiking friends from the U.S. visiting. I invited them to join the Toronto Power Walkers training on Toronto Island. The official TPW plan was 20 kilometre loops of the Island to prepare for the Island Girl. But since my guests and I were also planning a hike at the Forks of The Credit on Saturday afternoon, we decided we would opt for a shorter (and later) walk. At the Ferry Docks, we met Carol and Susan who were also doing a shorter distance due to injury.

The fog, which had delayed the ferry, created a mystical effect as we approached Centre Island and began our walk. My guests were enchanted by the atmosphere the mist created around us. Spider webs were still jewelled with dew and one couldn’t see far out into the lake. While walking the boardwalk we noticed that the top of the chimney at Ashbridges Bay Sewage Treatment Plant appeared to be floating in the sky as the mist obscured the bottom of the stack.

Walking through the homes on Ward Island, more than one person found themselves thinking wistfully aloud that it might be lovely to live there. At the end of our walk, we joined the group at The Rectory for brunch. After ordering, we witnessed a wedding ceremony in the restaurant before devouring a delicious meal. The return on the Ward Island ferry was in brilliant sun and showed off the city splendidly.

I probably would not have thought of taking visitors to the Island if TPW hadn’t been walking there. They found it to be one of the highlights of their visit. So, thanks to this great group for yet another favour.

A shout-out to Diane (and Bev) who out of commission for a few weeks mending an injury – we miss you and hope you’ll soon be well.

Our Feet are Made for Walking

2011-08-21T17:23:00.000-04:00

Barb, David , Ela, Helen, Mary, Rosemarie and I met in front of the Grenadier restaurant around 7 am on Saturday morning. Given that some of us had not walked together in a while, we quickly sought to catch up with the whys and whats of each others lives. As we chattered we said hello to other walkers we knew. Everyone, except myself, continued onward to the intended goal of 10K . I turned around a little after 3K , had my breakfast (David had finished his run and returned to the Grenadier as well), went home and rested.
After the rest I got myself ready for the Midsummer Night race.

I find it interesting that the landscape walked during the Midsummer Night race was like a 'before' picture of the waterfront walked earlier in the day . It was less refined, less pampered, less imposed upon by professionals who earn a living constructing and manipulating landscapes into whatever particular design pleases the dominant culture. It’s beauty was raw. There were points during the walk where it’s beauty was glorious.

Jeanne , Laurel, Lee, Lorna , Mary W , Phyllis, Rorie, Sue, Bev, Catherine and I gathered at the starting line of the Mid Summer Night race. Diane, Ela, Helen and Shirley cheered us on. The sky decided not to open up and drench us with rain. The wind blew with enough force to keep most of us from being devoured by mosquitoes and whatever other biters exist in such authentic landscapes.

There were times in the race where the back of the pack ( myself included there) and the front of the pack walkers were able to pass each other. I enjoyed the hellos from Laurel, Phyllis and Rorie as they glided by . There were still people out cheering by the time my sister Jeanne and I came around the final bend. We saw and heard the cheers of Helen, Shirely and Lee (one of the WOW coaches who has taught us and will be providing another training to us shortly) .

After my sister and I walked past the finish line together we met up with Mary and Lee (I loved Mary’s hat ) and then off we went home proudly with medals hung around our necks. Others went on to the pub afterwards, apparently an annual tradition. At the pub they were joined by loyal supporters such as Jeff D. Jeff B., Neil, Stuart and Jim. A great place to end the event!
So whether we Toronto Power Walkers are out early in the morning or whether we are out in the night, our TPW’s feet today were out there walking the various beautiful landscapes in this beautiful city called Toronto.

Remember that song These Boots are Made for Walking? I thought I would borrow from it. Just replace the word boots for feet and it goes something like this:
"Our feet our made for walking/ and that’s just what they’ll do/ ( now my addition)
our feet just keep on walking/ the distance that they do/

Walking in mid August

2011-08-16T15:09:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday was a great day for an early walk. We had a sizeable group and most did an admirable 18k. The training was for 21k but a decision was taken to do 18k and wait until September to do the full half. The rest of the group had a more leisurely walk and tended a variety of injuries. And I (Sue C) made sure all of the latter group were accompanied and made it back to High Park safely. J

We hope to see you at the race on Sat , after the race at the pub or at Rorie's pool party on Sunday.

Learning to love a 7:00am start

2011-08-06T23:25:00.000-04:00

Back at the end of June, when we started talking about moving to a 7:00am start on Saturdays, there was just the tiniest bit of moaning and groaning (much of it coming from me – and someone whose name begins with L and you know who you are.) We would mutter in small groups and negotiate amongst ourselves – how about 7:30 or even 7:45?

I was remembering this as we finished up our 16K walk this morning. It was very hot and the air was thick and a little chewy. I was dripping and coated in a thin layer of salt. I had consumed all four of my water bottles and two refills. We all admitted it had been a hard slog, as it is some mornings. But, here is the loving the early start part – it wasn’t even 10am and we were finished! Take that you slug-a-beds.

Even with lingering over breakfast I was home around 11:00 with lots of day left to read the paper, nap, have a massage (heaven) and potter around the house.

So, memo to self for next year – there is a reason for an early start in the summer. The sun gets hotter as it rises and finishing well before noon means we miss the worst of it. So stop your moaning Diane and just do it.

And to all – remember to use sun screen, wear a hat, hydrate and consume appropriate fuel to replenish the various minerals you lose. See you next Saturday bright and early. I will be the one with the big happy smile at the early hour (alright, alright, that last part may not be entirely true).

Caribbean Festival on the Lakeshore

2011-07-30T12:32:00.000-04:00

Summer walking the Toronto lakeshore with Toronto Power Walkers offers plenty of diversion. Aside from deeply interesting conversations with other walkers, there are dragon boat races, fundraising walks, wildlife and lots of other waterside sights to see. But my favourite is what used to be called Caribana and is now called the Caribbean Festival. (Nope, I don’t why they changed the name.) It’s held on the Saturday of the Simcoe holiday weekend. So the dozen of us who started walking east at 7AM and returned shortly after 10, were able to watch the vendors setting up their stalls and families staking out a tree for their camp for the day.
There are three things that make this festival my favourite to walk by on a Saturday morning:

The first are the smells. The smell of real burning charcoal (and some propane), the meat grilling, the curry spices in the air, are true “island” smells and seem so appropriate on a hot summer day. I considered giving up breakfast and stopping for roti instead, but our gathering on the Grenadier patio is an important tradition so I kept going, mouth watering.

The second is the music. Blasting out of speakers and tinkling out of small devices, the plinking of steel drums and the persistent, reggae beat speak of a unique culture that has helped shape Toronto’s ethnic mix.

The third is less romantic. It’s the bathrooms. Usually, I have to pay attention to each bathroom I pass and assess if I’m in good shape to get to the next one. But on Caribana Saturday, there are a plethora of portapotties, every 500 metres. And at this time of day, they are still pristine. I stop, even though I could go on, just to enjoy the luxury of it.

Maybe next year, we should join a parade band and dance part of our distance?

We are such an accommodating and flexible bunch!

2011-07-25T11:39:00.000-04:00

Some time ago I suggested breakfast at Sunnyside. Great idea, except one person couldn't make. No problem. We postponed it to... whenever she can make it.

This Saturday's outing was was just as accommodating and flexible. Because we are a large group someone usually pre-plans the route, but, because of our flexible nature, anything and everything could be adjusted to fit everyone's needs.

Fourteen of us started from High Park. Someone did not want to do the zoo route, no problem, we accommodated and adjusted. Once by Lake Shore, some preferred going east some preferred going west. Some wanted to walk fast, others not. Some wanted to walk 10k others 15k. No problem.

Everyone was accommodated. Everyone had someone to talk to (and walk with) at the various chosen paces and distances. Everyone's needs were met and we all managed to meet back in High Park at about the same time. This made for a happy bunch as was evidenced by the laughter at breakfast.

So, when are we eating at Sunnyside?

Walking is Poetry

2011-07-18T11:14:00.000-04:00

What I enjoy about writing in the blog , besides the actual sharing of information, is the various written styles I get to experiment and experience. Maybe I am a closet writer. Thought I would try a poem this time . So here we go.............

Invitation To Walk The Distance Together

On this day 14 came together
The sun initially friendly became intense
All of us appeared to understand the condition of the weather
Those sun screened lathered bodies were the evidence
Those who walked west to the lighthouse were the first to return
Of the 3 who went east one later went west with the pace of burn, burn burn
The highlights, besides our wonderful company, had to do
With observing a fish large enough for a week’s worth of stew
A very serene quiet walk in a nature trail
Which led us to slow down but not to the pace of a snail
Finally there was the Red Hat Society with those glorious hats
Smiling and laughing outside the patio where we sat
So whether walking on frozen walkways or under the blistering sun
We will be out there in all kinds of seasonal weather
If you see us observing, walking and having fun
Then consider this an invitation for us to Walk The Distance together

Six day walk anyone?

2011-07-10T08:39:00.000-04:00

Margie was away this weekend but sent this post in advance. About 10 of us gathered at High Park at 7am for a 16k walk along the noisy Lakeshore. It was nice except for the 5-10 minutes of Indy ear-splitting car racing. James and Rorie helped Phyllis walk her 32k distance in prep for a marathon walk in mid September. That's nothing compared to the 6 day walk.

History of Walking

The sport of walking has developed over time across many continents. The first walkers lived around 4 million years BC when humans discovered that being two-legged freed the hands for making tools, eating, etc. This walking for survival eventually became walking for entertainment, money and competition. The first serious pedestrian was Edward Payson Weston who earned a lucrative income as a professional walker and who, in 1867, walked from Portland to Chicago (1200 miles) in 26 days, winning a dare of $10,000.00, a fortune at the time. During his excursions he often faced adverse conditions. He also ate while walking. Sound familiar, ladies? In 1867 Weston gave many lectures on the benefits of walking and started the public competitive sport of “6 Day Walking.” He held his position as the world’s best walker until Daniel O’Leary broke his 6-Day record in 1874, winning the title “Champion Pedestrian of the World.” These competitions are the forerunners of what we now call “racewalking”. (source: Wikipedia).

But where were the women? Glad you asked. In the 1800’s women began to insist on participation. In 1877 Mary Marshall walked 50 miles in 12 hours. In 1879 the first Women’s 6-Day Walking challenge was launched and was won by Bertha Von Berg, earning her a $1000.00 dollar purse. Through these accomplishments, women slowly gained inclusion and respect as serious competitive walkers.

By the1990’s walking had become the most popular form of exercise in North America, with 65 million registered walkers. Today, marathon organizers across the world have become “walker friendly” to varying extents. There is even a walkers-only marathon: the Kitchener-Waterloo Walking Classic. With groups such as WoW advocating for walkers in marathons, and with each individual walk and marathon registration, all coming together as a cumulative positive voice, our sport will continue to thrive and grow!

Helpful resources

“The Lost art of Walking” by Geoff Nicholson
“Wanderlust: A History of Walking” by Rebecca Solnit
wowpowerwalking.com
walking.about.com

Musings on technology…

2011-07-05T09:46:00.000-04:00

One of the things that attracted me to walking was the fact that it is very low tech – all you need is shoes and off you go. I’m not a technophobe. I use all the tools for work, communication and even some play but always liked getting away from all that when we walked our distances. But, as time has passed, slowly but surely the tech world has insinuated itself upon us. First we started carrying our cell phones (an excellent safety measure) and then came the Garmins.

I have watched with great amusement as many of my fellow TWPs have strapped these devices to their wrists and then started talking to them, generally in less than complimentary fashion. Many moments have been spent with my walking buddies staring intently at their little screens, poking various buttons and pleading for what they want to see – what is our pace? what is our average time? how far have we come? “Give me the information you #%*@! machine” they command. I chuckle (quietly to myself) as I check my old fashioned watch.

However now there is a new player in the mix. Over breakfast on Saturday, Margie was singing the virtues of her new Nike Sportswatch GPS, as have several others of our group. The numbers are big, the buttons are few, the technology simple. For the first time I felt a small stirring of tech envy.

Mind you, another major topic of our conversation was the Duchesses’ maple leaf fascinator, and I think I can resist that so maybe I will continue to be a tech-free walker (whoops, make that ‘tech-light’ – there is that cell-phone I carry!).

Remember we now start at 7:00 on Saturdays – sounds terribly early but nice once you are out there and really helps when it is hot.

Not So Great Expectations

2011-06-26T15:09:00.000-04:00

As usual, early on Saturday morning, I checked the internet for the morning weather forecast and decided what to wear for walking. It never occurred to me to look out the window! So the misty rain I encountered in High Park was a bit dismaying since I hadn’t brought any rain gear. A few minutes later, though, the rain was gone. After a visit with Margie, who had to go home to company, eight of us agreed on a goal of “around the Music Garden and back” – a little over 14 kilometres.

I’ve had to adjust my expectations of myself this past year. No longer a “middle of the pack” walker, I’m usually at the back of the pack now. I’m still committed to the distance but have had to adjust my speed. The wonderful thing about walking with the Toronto Power Walkers is that there is always someone willing to walk with me for awhile. The group forms and re-forms into twos or threes throughout the walk. So I was able to connect with Mary, Diane, Sherry, and others when they had to stop to take a stone out of their shoe or for some other reason.

And then there were the “come from behind” folks, Lee and Laurel, who slept in a bit but had enough speed to overtake the group along the course. I walked with them for awhile, too.

While walking with these folks, I’ve learned about their fascinating lives. I am often astonished by what the walker beside me has accomplished in her life, the obstacles she has overcome, the decisions she has had to make, her plans for the future.

Back at the Grenadier, happily dry because the rain held off, breakfast on the patio was the usual – eggs, toast, coffee and companionship. And my deep gratitude for the friendship of this group.

P.S Susan B. and Rorie kept Phyllis company on segments of her long walk on Sunday. Thanks for your support - Phyllis

Remember, we start at 7AM next week, July 2. See you all there. Happy Canada Day!

The heat has arrived!

2011-06-20T23:53:00.000-04:00

Susan S, Mary W, Ela, Mary G, Laurel, Susan B, Fiona, Klara, Carol, Linda and Sue C met at High Park and did anywhere from 8k (Linda and Carol with injuries and me – Sue C – just plain tired) to 17.5k (Rorie & Shelley – way to go!).

We missed members of our group who are heading out on Sunday instead (Phyllis & Margie) – so glad you have as wonderful a day as we did to do your distance. [Phyllis greatly appreciated Margie coming out to walk with her for 16.5k, as 27k is a long walk, alone!]

Sherry – we wish you all the best on Sunday at your triathlon – you are amazing!

As our group headed back to breakfast, we felt the heat of the sun and increased humidity. We remembered the benefits of starting our Saturday distance at 7:00am (I know, I know) before the sun becomes too hot for the final leg of our distance (and also to stay out of the way of all the cyclists). Just a reminder to step up hydration in this weather and bring additional food. After our stretches, we had a lazy breakfast on the patio and waited for the rest of our fellow walkers to arrive.

Remember that on July 2nd, we will begin our Saturday walks at 7:00am.

Race Reminders (these are my two favourites):
Midsummer Night’s Run – Saturday, August 20

Let’s get a big group together for this race! Registration is $65 until July 31st. Here’s the registration link: http://www.eventsonline.ca/events/midsummer_night/

Island Girl Half – Sunday, September 25

Held on Centre Island, the race starts at 9:30am and you get a free ride on the ferry! Loads of fun – here’s the link for the half marathon:

http://www.islandgirlrunning.com/2011-island-girl-half-marathon.html

Price increases to $70 on June 25th so register today!

See you on Tuesday!

Many Paths to the Garden

2011-06-13T10:54:00.000-04:00

On our walk and at breakfast I was engaged, with various people, in conversations related to wellness. It appears that many of us (total of 12 walkers ) have walked down all sorts of paths of health and well being prior to arriving at TPWs. Some spoke of family and others spoke about themselves.

Okay, you say, that explains part of the title but what about the rest. I’ll start with a quote.

Hanna Rion(1875–1924) wrote that ‘The greatest gift of the garden is the restoration of the five senses.’ It came to me that the TPW can provide us with the same gift. During our walk all five of our senses go through a restoration. Our senses are immersed in the sights, sounds, smells of nature. Other senses are activated by the touch of the sun and wind on our skin and let us not forget our taste buds at breakfast. In an analogical sense TPWs, for many of us, is our garden of restoration and we have arrived via many paths.

So whatever path (health and well being) brings you to the garden (TPW), welcome . Be restored and join us as we walk the distance.

Rain, cold, thunder and lightening…

2011-06-07T09:17:00.000-04:00

Who else out there is sick to death of this weather, eh? Regardless of the forecast a good group of stalwart TPWs congregated at the Grenadier for our Saturday morning walk. We were doing a variety of distances, from 5k to about 15K. Some of us were still tired from the previous weeks Women’s Half and were relieved that our training goal was only 12K.

We set out under light grey skys and headed east along the lakeshore. By the time Sue C., Linda and I turned back for the return journey the sky was turning dark grey and it just got darker. First came the drizzle and then the drops. The first ominous rumbles of thunder had us plotting on what to do if the lightening came closer. After debating the merits of crouching down in the hopes that our rubber soles wouldn’t conduct any lightning strikes, we decided the saner plan would be to head for the road and catch a cab. However, it didn’t come to that.

We made it into warmth and breakfast as the drops turned into a deluge. Waiting for us were Susan and Lynn who had gone straight for the sane plan and caught a cab back at the first flash of lightening. As we sat cozily over breakfast it just got worse outside and I got soaked again getting to my car.

My husband questioned my (our) sanity on my return but, as usual, once I had had my hot shower, I was glad I had done it.

And today is sunny and warm – so the next thing we will have to complain about is the heat.

Tuesday is intervals at the pub – let’s try and remember some of what Lee taught us. And Saturdays from now until the fall are at High Park starting at 8:00.

Our Last Saturday in Mount Pleasant Cemetery

2011-05-29T21:00:00.001-04:00

Twelve women congregated at the gates of Mount Pleasant Cemetery for the final walk there until the fall. The turnout was smaller as several of the TPW are racing in the Toronto Women’s Half Marathon on Sunday, the 29th. We’ll look forward to hearing their experience.

The folks in our little community greeted one another with delight after several weeks of not being in contact as various members have been travelling. There was a light, misty drizzle and, while we waited for any latecomers, the discussion turned to the effect of humidity on our hair. Some were pleased and some were not but I thought everybody looked great. (Waves become you, Bev!)

We set off and broke naturally into groups of two or three according to pace. Many people were discussing their experiences with Lee’s training on the previous three Tuesdays. People called out to one another, reminding them of alignment and good form. Lynn suggested that it might be a good idea to continue to use Lee’s exercises throughout the year with someone calling them out throughout the walks on Saturday and on Tuesday. Everyone involved has been so pleased with the improvement in their fitness.

After the first 6 kilometre loop, the group reconvened. Phyllis reminded those of us who will have to miss the meeting at Harbord House on Monday night that the schedules for distance and pace for race preparation are on the web page. After a bit of discussion, nine stalwarts embarked on another 6 kilometres and the other three headed for breakfast.

See you next week at High Park. Don’t forget that we’re starting 30 minutes earlier at 8AM.

Getting ready for Fall

2011-05-24T14:13:00.002-04:00

I know that I am rushing the seasons, and we have barely experienced spring let along summer (wasn’t Saturday an absolutely gorgeous day!!)….but training for a race involves planning 12-16 weeks out.

We’re in the middle of our May racing season, having completed races in Pittsburgh and Toronto in mid May and the Toronto Women’s Half at the end of this month. We are meeting on Monday May 30^th (Harbord House, 6:30pm) to set our next goals for the Fall.

We are encouraging everyone to complete a half marathon in the Fall, specifically on September 25^th. There are two choices – the Kitchener-Waterloo Walkers-only race or the Island Girl Half (on Toronto Island, mainly women but not exclusively).

It’s so much more fun to train together, commiserate about the miles on a Saturday morning at 7am and then celebrate with breakfast on the patio of the Grenadier Café, together. We have a few first-timers and they are counting on our experienced racers to help them through the intricacies of what to eat, and drink, and when, what to wear in all kinds of weather. No matter what your pace is, you are experienced if you have completed the distance in a race…

We’ll also talk about shorter races to keep us motivated through the summer, one of our favorites, with great gear and water bottles at the finish line, along with a medal is the Midsummer Night’s Run (August 20^th). We usually celebrate with munchies at a pub somewhere nearby.

We’re looking forward to walking and talking our way up and down the shore of Lake Ontario, and up and down the Humber river, with you this summer.

P.S. Don’t forget our third and last training with Lee Scott tonight at 6:20pm at Mt Pleasant Cemetery.

Pittsburgh stories

2011-05-16T16:02:00.002-04:00

Our Pittsburgh relay road trip was great fun, although the drive was very wet
and race organization a bit of a mess. Proves it is really about the
company. However, for the record, the vote seems to be no more relays -- too
much standing around waiting. But Pittsburg might be worth going back to for
a half or full -- it is an attractive and friendly little city.

There were ten of us in two teams (the Foxes and the Gems) for the relay;
Jackie did the half; and Rob (Barb's husband) ran. With Jackie and Mary's
significant others (Chris and Bryan), we were 14 for a very lively dinner on Saturday night.

We all got to our exchange stations and successfully handed off to each
other. The walk itself was a delight with lovely neighbourhoods, wonderful
old building, blossoming foliage and cheering people. However, the shuttle
buses that were supposed to pick us up at the end and take us to the finish
line were almost non-existent. Hence the waiting...and more waiting.
However, all is well that end's well and both teams completed in 6:18
beating out the Pink Ladies and the Just Do Its (hooray ladies, we weren't
last!!).

Jean’s Tradition

2011-05-15T14:30:00.001-04:00

When I arrived at the cemetery Lorisa was busy informing Catherine, Shelley and Helen T. of the various walking techniques she had acquired during the WOW training course we had on Tuesday. By the time Martha arrived everyone was engaged in a lively conversation about the sneakers, core, glutes etc. At the arrival of Martha the conversation turned to Garmins. Since she had one she was unanimously elected as our pace bunny. As is our practise, those in front looped back to ensure those of us at the back of the pack were alright.

The subway had prevented Linda from walking the first loop so she was waiting at the meeting point when we arrived. After a small chit chat some of our group went farther than the 6 K we all had completed, others went home and Linda and I went for breakfast.

While at breakfast we reviewed a 2008 JeansMarines walkers '6 hours and plus' training schedule. Now that I am able to power walk again I am thinking (not committed yet ) of doing a half Army marathon in September 2011 .To enable my ankle to remain strong I have to be fully engaged in lot of strength exercises and a very gradual training programme that is minimalist in long distance training. Speed is not my thing; completing a marathon is. Linda just happen to have a copy of the JeansMarines schedule and provided it to me. It is now hanging up for me to review each week.

As I was driving home I was thinking about our group composition . With the exception of Linda and myself, everyone walking at the cemetery was relatively a new comer to the group. Those this weekend taking part in the Pittsburgh Marathon Relay and Goodlife Half marathon are a mixture of individuals who come from the JeansMarines days and there are those (like Helen T. who I walked with today)who have no connection to JeansMarines.

In our TPW web blog site under the section entitled About Us it is noted that ‘many of us started as JeansMarines and carry on Jean’s tradition of caring for and encouraging each other’. It seems to me that our group has done and is doing this exceptionally well. Whether it is through sharing helpful information via a dialogue, looping, leading a group with the aid of a Garmin , searching and finding old walking training schedules and going out of your way to give it to a group member - we are a group of caring and encouraging individuals ‘dedicated to walking for fitness and pleasure, training to achieve our individual goals and enjoying the companionship and inspiration of like-minded women (and a few good men).’ And so it is that we walk the distance within Jean’s tradition.

Note: Week 2 of WOW training this Tues. night - please come for 6:20pm. Also, please don't forget our dinner meeting on Monday May 30th at Harbord House. We'll talk about upcoming races especially the half marathon we want to train for together in September.

Congrats to our Pittsburgh relay and Toronto Half marathoners! Still have another half marathon in two weeks!

Cherry Blossoms in High Park

2011-05-07T21:52:00.002-04:00

This past Saturday it was exciting to be in High Park where the lovely Sakura Cherry Trees are blossoming in full splendour. These lovely pink blooms are indigenous to Japan where the Japanese celebrate the annual festival of Sakura Hanami (cherry blossom viewing), a tradition rooted as far back as third century CE. The magic of the Sakura was obvious on Saturday as families and couples scattered themselves across Hillside Gardens for picnics and photographs under the gently flowering pink canopies.

We began our TPW day at Rorie’s car receiving back newly embroidered clothing from Stitchy Lizard. My black jacket looked great with its new white TPW logo and it was obvious others were just as thrilled. Well, done, Rorie! Then over the Grenadier restaurant for a group picture. After that one short circuit to enjoy the Sakura Cherry Blossoms and we were off!

We travelled down to the Lakeshore, and then turned quickly east toward the Musical Gardens (14 of us in total). It was perfect walking weather, cool but not cold, breezy but not windy. Four of us reached our goal of 14K – my personal longest walk so far – and the first time this year for the others! Well done, Diane, Sue and Sue! Other TPW members did not go quite so far. Some had to return for other appointments, such as race-walking training, and therefore we did not all have breakfast together. Nevertheless, it was a magical and energetic day of accomplishments, and a pleasure to celebrate Spring at last!

Reminder: Tuesday training with Lee Scott of WOW is at the Mt Pleasant Cemetery. We're starting at 6:20pm, so we can get our cars out before they lock the gates at 8pm. Please print and complete waiver sent via email.

Saturday - most of TPW will NOT be at the Cemetery due to races on Sunday in Pittsburgh and Toronto.

It’s all downhill from here – and that’s a good thing in a race!

2011-05-01T20:27:00.002-04:00

Before the race

Finish line with medals

I really enjoyed this year’s Sporting Life 10K, my first race of the season. I confess I haven’t been training all that hard so far and I wasn’t sure how I would feel. But, despite a chilly, overcast day, it felt good to be swinging along down Yonge Street, arms pumping and feet pushing. The company was excellent – 13 TPWs and 15,000 other people (but enough about them).

Walkers started separately this year which was rather pleasant – not so many of those pushy runners who are always trying to get by!

Sue, Margie and I stayed together for most of the way, commenting on the windows and the various restaurants that we meet and eat at. We met friends along the way, moaned a bit about the unseasonably grey weather but gave thanks it wasn’t actually raining, checked our pace at regular intervals and chatted about this and that.

I was feeling good toward the end so gave it a little push and almost, but not quite, caught up to Lee and Martha. Didn’t break any records but proved to myself, yet again, that I can do a respectable job. Yeah, walkers!

Brunch was delicious (thank Sue for making the reservation). In addition to our regular exchange of news and views we did a little magic at our end of the table. Apparently Sherry can read minds. Who knew? The most amusing part of the morning was our group think in choosing a streetcar – we realized we had reverted to some sort of adolescent gang mentality, leaving our sophisticated professional personas behind us. All part of being a TPW – one for all and all for one.

Next race – Pittsburgh (or Goodlife in Toronto) There is a Pittsburgh ‘strategy meeting’in the pub on Tuesday night after Intervals. Even if you are not going to Pittsburgh, come and walk around Rosedale with us.

A reminder that this Saturday we are at High Park at 8:00AM. There is much happening in May so keep reading the blog to keep on top of things.

Weekend of Renewal

2011-04-24T13:45:00.000-04:00

We are celebrating Passover, Easter and Earth Day this weekend. All of these traditions are about renewal. Many of the Toronto Power Walkers were renewing ties with family and friends over the long weekend and so, were unable to join us for the walk. Others, on discovering that it was raining, renewed their ties with their pillow. So there were 8 of us who met at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in the rain on Saturday morning.

A new member, Shelley, invited me to sit in her car while we waited for the rest of the group. I learned that she had been a runner but had suffered from shin splints and was now looking to regain that sense of well-being by starting a walking program with us. Welcome, Shelley! Susan B is recovering well from her injury and walked 6 kilometres for the first time since being stricken.

The 8 walkers soon spread out into 4 pairs according to their speed. Two of the members, nursing injuries, stopped at 6 kilometres. The rest took another half lap to complete 10. Everyone was in a bit of a hurry to get on with their weekend (and to get dry) so breakfast was a small affair.

The cemetery shows all signs of a glorious spring, soon to come. Scilla are spread across the grass like purple paint. The horse chestnut buds are huge and ready to burst. Forsythia branches are traced in yellow. There are even a few daffodils blooming in sheltered spots.

Next Sunday is the Sporting Life 10K. If you are not racing, there will be a small group of us walking in the cemetery on Saturday. It should be beautiful. If you are free on Sunday morning, you can come to the start line (near Sporting Life on Yonge Street) to cheer on our racers.

Also, we are only a few weeks away from the Pittsburgh and Goodlife marathons. Come out and walk the distance with us.

Alex and Ela’s Socks

2011-04-17T19:37:00.002-04:00

This is a story about community , Alex and Ela’s Socks.

My husband Alex, during the week of the Disney marathon, made a commitment to complete a 5 K training program. Ela, just before we flew out of Florida, gave him his first new pair of walking socks. As his wife, I knew that the moment he accepted Ela’s gift he had sealed his commitment. I knew without a doubt that he would join a walking training programme and complete 5 K.

Last week my beloved told me to let the TPW group know that his brother, friend and himself had joined a walking group and that they had (with the group) walked more than 5K; 8 K to be exact . Having been unable to find a 5 K walking group that they all could attend Alex and his walking buddies signed up for a 10K walking program and are in the process of completing it.

Shortly after giving me permission to inform the group of what he had done, I asked my beloved why I was unable to influence his decision; why, after much urging by various members at the Disney marathon, he reversed his decision and decided to join a walking group. To summarize the answer to the why question : love is blind.

What ? I will repeat myself : Love is blind. Connect the dots you plead. Gladly, say I.

It turns out that I, the wife, am supposed to think that he is capable of all things good (this is the love is blind thing). Ela on the other hand is, beyond the TPW radar, a stranger to him. She is also a stranger who, in his mind, has completed marathons within a certain moral code he possesses i.e. she does not cheat. So when Ela gave him the socks she, the person who walked the distance and cannot be blindsided by him (because she does not love him the way I the wife love him), was telling my Alex that in her opinion he could walk 5 K. If she did not believe this (so goes his thinking) she would not of given him the socks.

Sometimes, just sometimes the distance walked by those we love is totally not our doing. Sometimes it is all about random acts of kindness, gatherings and belief not provided by ourselves yet accepted by our beloved as a truth. Sometimes it is all about community; a community built on kindness , gatherings and beliefs of empowerment such as we have at the TPWs.

So there we have it ...the story of Alex and Ela’s Socks

HERE COMES THE SUN!

2011-04-11T16:04:00.004-04:00

For me, it’s a new and better world when the sun is shining. As we ease slowly into our earlier timeslot for Saturday training, the sun makes it a lot easier to get up earlier and head out. It is so liberating to walk without all our heavy gear. We had a great group out last Saturday at High Park for our first 8am start.

For the rest of April, we’re at the cemetery on Saturday mornings at 8:30am. On May 7 at 8:00am we will meet again at High Park. Then back to the cemetery for Saturdays in May. On June 4, we will begin training from High Park for the rest of the year. I know it's confusing…we’ll try to keep the weekly training info on the sidebar up to date.

TPW logoed items - Most of us gave Rorie various items of clothing on which she will arrange to have the logo printed or stitched – thanks for taking this on, Rorie! We’re going to look terrific!

We started off with our usual 3k circle of the Park, past the zoo and up that zoo HILL!! Remember that ZOO HILL?? REMEMBER THAT ZOO HILL? Puff, puff, groan! Then, down the hill to the waterfront, where we broke into two groups: those heading west to the Humber Bridge for 8k (and more) and those who turned around and headed back up the hill, having finished their warm-up for race walking lessons.

The walk and the conversations were lively and the sun was energizing. We practised our form and style and helped each other get it right. Then, returning for breakfast, we found Margie, who is nursing an ankle injury, holding a table for our group.

IMPORTANT TRAINING INFORMATION

April – dates TBD – Helen S is lining up training with Barb Gormley for two nights; each member has a choice of ONE evening, either a Tuesday or Thursday at 6:30pm. Location: Sue's condo, party room. Details via email after you sign up.

May 10, 17 and 24 (Tuesdays) at 6:30pm – WOW Training at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery

NB: Training is capped at 20 - This training is designed as a 3-session unit; it is not a 'come to one of three offering'. Please do not sign up unless you can commit to at least 2 out of 3 sessions. TPW will be paying on a per person basis so we would really like committed attendees only.

TPW will cover the cost for all training.

Tuesdays are interval training at 6:30pm – see sidebar for training schedule.

Thursdays – you’re still on your own!

To Barb C, best wishes for a safe flight, enjoy your new home and stay in touch!

Reflections of a First Race By: Margie

2011-04-04T10:16:00.000-04:00

What should I wear? How early should I get there? How will I pace myself? So many questions as I prepare myself for my first race, Harry’s 8K at High Park. I arrive on scene to find people everywhere, heading toward the corrals, checking bags, lined up for the portables. My eyes scan the crowd for members of TPW. I feel momentarily lonely. I miss the camaraderie of my group. But then I realize that walking is also for the self. Self-confidence. Self-awareness. In the end each person must “walk the distance” as an individual. So I find my way to my corral and eagerly join the hundreds of other people waiting to start.

Suddenly we’re off! We surge through the starting gate! Everyone around me is running, flowing past me both right and left, boxing me in. I am tempted to get swept up in the momentum, but I remember my commitment is to walking, not running, so I resist. Soon they are far ahead, a bobbing, weaving collage of colliding but united colours against black pavement, an abstract painting in party mode. They turn a corner and are suddenly gone.

Momentarily alone on the path, I feel the music of the bands, first ahead, then receding as I leave them behind. I hear Sue et al cheering and waving from the sidelines. Then Phyllis and eventually Lee. All is motivation and energy. I am now overtaking some of the runners who passed me earlier. Suddenly we participants are all asked to move over for those who are “doubling back”. How did they get so far so quickly? I experience a pang of jealousy. Never mind, I tell myself. Let it go. Stay focused.

A momentary pause at Grenadier Pond as I approach an inviting bench facing the sparkling water. Don’t stop. Keep going. I am tired now, but manage to catch up to Sherry and Mary. We laugh and exchange hello’s. We reach the 7k mark and I am dreading what I know lies ahead. The path inclines upward, first gently, and then suddenly there it is before me – the hill – looming as steep and forbidding as a mountain. Sherry and Mary shift into high gear, making it look easy. I fall behind. I have lost my energy and stability. I’m hunched forward, barely lifting my feet as I stumble onward. I have not paced myself properly. I don’t have anything left. But wait! The volunteers ahead have noticed my faltering. “You can do it!” they cry. “Come on,” they shout, “You are almost there!” They hold out their arms for high-fives. Pride takes over. I do not want to disappoint them – or myself. I can – must – do this. I stand tall, lift my feet and position my arms for momentum. The volunteers burst into wild cheers and applause as I stride through them. What a glorious moment. I reach the summit, turn right, and there it is – the finish line. I push through, exhausted and exhilarated. I am grinning as Sherry, Mary and I collect our medals. I grin again as we pose for a picture. I did it! I can’t wait to do it again!

Mary, Sherry and Margie - with hats and medals

It's Harry's, it must be Spring!

2011-04-02T22:35:00.003-04:00

Read this first!!! Remember that this Saturday we are meeting at High Park at 8:00am (yes, that is earlier than 8:30) and, if you want to get the TPW logo printed on something, bring it with you. For newcomers, we meet at the Grenadier Restaurant.

It’s Harry’s so it must be spring ... and we have some training to do.

Sue, Carol, Phyllis and I enjoyed volunteering at Saturday’s first race of the season, Harry’s Spring Run-off at High Park. Terrific to see Margie in her first race. Congrats, we knew you could do it! Mary and Sherry were in fine form and Helen and family walked as a group. Well done all. (See Margie’s and Mary/Sherry's take on the race below). Mary and Ela were also out cheering on family members. Lorna was handing out medals at the finish line.

The next race is Sporting Life (May 1) and we hope to see lots of TPW’s out for that.

To help us all get ready for whatever races we have chosen, we are planning to hold some training refreshers. We need to get some expressions of interest to help us with our planning. Here is what is proposed.

1) Barb Gormley will guide us through a program of core exercises. We will each get a chance to attend one of two classes that will be offered on consecutive Tuesdays in APRIL. Helen S. is confirming dates with Barb G. and we will ask everyone to choose the one that works best for them. Sue C. has once again kindly offered to host at her condo meeting room which can hold about 15 each night.

2) We will also be offering a three-part WOW coaching program in MAY. Mary G. has made tentative arrangements with Lee but we need your feedback to confirm. There will be room for 20 people who will be asked to commit for the entire 3-part program on Tuesday nights. Registration will be on a first come, first served basis. Details will be coming shortly.

Many of us will be out on Tuesday for interval training (see the sidebar for details). Time to get serious if we want to walk that distance without hurting ourselves!

Brrrrrrrr!

2011-03-28T09:39:00.002-04:00

The hardest thing about doing any exercise first thing in the morning is getting out of bed. I find it even harder to wake up when it's cold outside. Saturday was such a day. Having promised to pick up Mary I had to keep my promise.

Now, what to wear? We always say that there is no such thing as bad weather only bad gear. I've been walking now for few years and one would think I had it all figured out. Not me. I know what to wear for the -25 and +25 weather but somehow I always have difficulty with the in-between. I changed three times before finally leaving home only to find out it was much colder in High Park than anticipated. I wonder how many other walkers bring a stash of warm clothes and secretly keep them in their cars, just in case.

So there we were, two Toronto Power Walkers, wearing mostly JeansMarines outfits trying to race walk as taught by the Ontario Race Walking Association. A bit comical and it almost worked except that I have not yet mastered the basics and thus could not walk fast enough to keep warm. We decided on the Harry's 8k route and after 3 km stopped for wardrobe adjustment. It was that hot.

I don't know about you but I don't think I will never master the proper "gear".

Note: April 2nd is Harry's Spring Run-Off at High Park. Come to cheer some of your fellow TPW's at 10am. Some of us will also be there as volunteers. Spring is not far behind!

Come out this Tuesday....join the Tuesday night keeners who have been walking all winter. It's light out, no excuses. See info on the sidebar on the right.

Almost Spring….and the Beginning of our Third Year!

2011-03-22T21:35:00.000-04:00

A large group of walkers gathered on Saturday morning for our varied distances. The sun was out in force and it was generally agreed (after standing about waiting for the final few to arrive) that it was a lot colder than anticipated. The wind was brisk and the conversation lively as we set out on our first round of the cemetery.

When JeansMarines was winding down in 2008, a few of us talked about what we would do when we no longer had the structure of meeting three times a week to train for races and, more importantly, to retain the friendships which had become so important to us. Out of a few conversations on our long slow distances, Toronto Power Walkers was born. I am still amazed when I see the great turnout of women (and a few good men) on a chilly Saturday morning, or at 7:00am in the summer!

Thanks to Carol for hosting our first TPW meeting of 2011 at her home. Diane chaired the meeting at which we collectively discussed the upcoming year. Here is a quick outline of the points of discussion:

Make sure you’re in the Google Group! Emails are provided throughout the year through the Google group, so if this is your first year, get in touch with Phyllis or Lorna who will sign you up.
Make a note that we will meet at High Park at 8:00am on April 9th and May 7th. In June, we move permanently to High Park with a 7:00am start.
TPW Logo – a date has been set to bring personal items of clothing to have the logo either stitched or silk-screened in time for spring races. There is a minimum for silk-screening of 12 items.
Races – Check the left sidebar for Helen’s updates on races of interest for 2011. TPWs are participating in Harry’s Spring Runoff on April 2nd both as racers and as volunteers. To volunteer as a Toronto Power Walker, contact Charlotte at charlotte@canadarunningseries.com
Training – We hope to have two training sessions – a core conditioning class and a session on power walking technique and stretching – with an additional session on technique on a Saturday morning.
Sponsorship – Harbord House has come up trumps again! John Oakes has offered his sponsorship again this year and we are very grateful. A dinner for the group will be arranged at Harbord House in April or May after a session of interval training at Central Tech.
Laurel has received our hats and they are now being stitched with the TPW and Harbord House logos. If you are a new, fully paid-up member, your dues include a hat. Email tpw@rogers.com to collect.
Tuesday intervals have begun! We gather at 6:30pm at the Quail & Firkin on Yonge Street, just north of the Rosedale subway station. Meet everyone at the back of the pub by the pool table, do your interval training and then join the group for dinner. Check the right sidebar for the weekly training schedule.
Thursday walking is still on hold but watch the right sidebar for the start of our tempo walks.
Charity – Sherry, Barb DL and Barb C are looking into this year’s potential charity – more to come from them.
Carol noted that although a small group of us initiated TPW, the group as a whole is encouraged to help out. We currently have openings for Guest Bloggers – contact Phyllis and don’t be shy!

Lastly, a couple of our longtime members are moving out of town. We wish Barb C and Deb the very best for the future – we’ll miss you both!

March On, March On

2011-03-14T08:47:00.001-04:00

Diversity and inclusiveness interest me. Maybe being the first born of a blended family I, over the years, became hard wired to look for points of intersection. Points of intersection, invisible to the eyes of those who have not undergone the negative experience of not belonging, where I would find a loving community.

Toronto Power Walkers is, in my opinion, one of those community’s that has this loving presence. We, in the TPWs, seem to be a group of women who excel. We excel at walking the distance; the majority of those who met for breakfast completed 10 K. We excel in our ability to discuss topics that range from mindfulness to world events; as we did during breakfast.

We, in my opinion, also excel in our loving presence for our members who are in emotional or physical pain. We collectively form a space for that person or persons to disclose the pain and then the listeners via a combination of eye contact and empathy select a listener to speak. Carefully the words are organized. Slowly words emerge; words of empowerment ,sympathy and sometimes just practical resolution.

Women, the ‘other’, have been doing this for centuries. For centuries we have been creating loving communities, points in intersection in which diversity and inclusiveness come together for brief periods of time to heal, to soothe, to be present. So during this week in which International Women’s Day was celebrated , it is my opinion, that we, the TPW, have walked the distance not only (for most of us ) in kilometres but also in our loving attentiveness towards each other. March on. March on.

Insights on a gloomy day

2011-03-06T13:44:00.001-05:00

I can usually find some beauty in whatever weather we walk in but the best I could do on Saturday was think of the rain as a harbinger of spring (belied somewhat by the subsequent overnight snow). Even Rorie’s magic jacket had no effect on the steady downpour that persisted throughout the day.
However, nothing seems to deter our valiant walkers who were out in some force. We even welcomed a newcomer, Lee, who made a rather dramatic entrance to our group by sliding out of her car on a lingering patch of ice. It will get nicer Lee!

I made it half way round with the group and then decided to cut my misery short by coming back up the middle of the cemetery. Being on my own made me reflect on how much I enjoy the camaraderie that the group provides. I love the free flowing conversations that cover everything from the minutia of family life to the affairs of the world. The walk back, although chosen because it was shorter, felt longer without company. Out of sight and sound of my TPW ‘peeps’, I felt lonely.

It made me doubly glad to get to the warm, dry restaurant where I was joined by Barb D. (feeling guilty because she had quite sensibly decided to avoid getting soggy). Damp walkers joined us one by one, as did Sue C. (relieved that her previous day’s ‘big event’ was over and done with) and Susan B. (whose injury continues to improve). Nine of us enjoyed breakfast and continued our never-ending chat (troublesome neighbours, board governance, Pittsburg, etc.). Slightly less damp, my stomach full and surrounded by friends, I had one of those moments of being conscious of being happy. And I guess that was the beauty in the heart of a grey and rainy day.

A reminder that we will be having our planning brunch at Carol’s after walking on March 19. If you haven’t already, please let us know if you will be attending (tpw@rogers.com ).

Note: Racewalking training kick-off was rescheduled to March 12th at High Park due to the forecasted poor weather.

Saturday Rituals

2011-02-27T11:36:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our new blogger Linda!

On Saturday mornings, we’ve all developed some rituals associated with walking with the Toronto Power Walkers. For example, when I wake, I must immediately check the weather and decide what to wear based on the temperature and the precipitation. Then, I must eat the breakfast that will give me just enough energy for the distance we’ll cover and still leave room for the most important ritual of all, breakfast with the walkers after our walk. That breakfast has become so traditional that our server knows in advance what we’ll order.

Eighteen walkers, a good turnout, set out together this past Saturday morning, joined part-way along the route by Fiona. It was nice to see Rosemarie and David (one of our few good men) out this morning after having been sidelined for awhile. It was also great to see some of our walkers, who've been training elsewhere, and Carol who’s been on an exotic sailing vacation (cross-training?).

The group spread out into groups of 2 and 3, according to their pace. While most of the paths had been salted, the light snow fall created slightly hazardous footing in places because it camouflaged ice below. This slowed the pace of our quicker walkers somewhat. The many conversations ranged from current events and concern for elderly parents to trips planned or recently taken - and of course, a few speculations about Academy Award winners.

Arriving at “our breakfast place,” we found Laurel holding a table for us. Nine walkers sat down and were joined a few minutes later by Susan, who is recovering from an injury. Mary, who had walked an additional circuit in the interests of training, joined us a bit later. Barb and Diane took advantage of the gathering to collect some of the money owed them for the upcoming Pittsburgh road trip.

After food and fellowship, we all got up to go at about the same time, refreshed and energized, ready for the rest of the weekend. Join us next week! And remember you can also walk with the Tuesday Night Keeners.

Walk the Distance and Hope Springs Eternal

2011-02-22T09:14:00.003-05:00

The winds, the night before the walk, had been ones that brought trees to their knees and enabled some cars to dance on various roads and highways. Nature brought temperatures, on the Saturday of the walk,
which left trails of white smoke spewing from most of the nostrils and mouths of the walkers.

Bev, Diane, Fiona, Helen, Klara, Laurel, Linda, Lorisa, Margie, Martha, Mary , Rorie, Sherry, Shirley , Sue and Susan gathered for the weekly Saturday walk. Some of the aforementioned hoped that at least one walker would arrive for the walk. The 16 arrivals, giving the pleasure around the breakfast table at the turn out, marked for
me the first fulfilled desire of hope.

The majority of the 16 gathered intended to complete one loop. Starting off together each individual set to complete the loop (a little over 6 K) at her own pace; a common practice with the TPW group. It was after the walk started that hope was fulfilled the second time.

The second story I am linking to hope is, a bit exaggerated on my part, as follows.

Shirley, it was her first time out this year, started walking with the TPW and then somewhere during the loop entered into a conversation with another group of people. Soon after the conversation was over and
on her own, she hoped that a TPW walker would arrive and accompany her on her walk. Linda, who had left the TPW group to respond to her call of nature, came across Shirley filling in her ‘waiting for someone time’
with (of course) hill training. Linda seeing Shirley doing hill training thought it was marvellous idea and joined her. Soon Linda and Shirley completed their hill training and Linda accompanied Shirley’s on her walk. This marked for me the second fulfillment of hope.

I am not too sure if it was Linda’s hope to do hill training but let’s say it was and have three hopes realized. Oh what the heck let’s throw in another fulfilled hope in that Shirley had someone with her to do the hill training.

Voila, four hopes realized.

As all of this was going on, Helen who was walking with Klara and Fiona happened to come upon Rorie. Knowing Rorie’s dislike of walking alone, especially on terrain where the black ice likes to throw up its arms to hurl walkers at dizzying speeds down roads, Helen accompanied Rorie for her second loop around the cemetery. I am going
to count this, correct me if I am wrong Rorie, as the fifth hope fulfilled. I think I will count this as the final hope realized.

Oh wait...wait...wait... there is Sue and her thermal socks. I have it from a reliable source that Sue’s socks kept her warm throughout the entire walk. This is the sixth hope realized.

Six hopes fulfilled in the span of about one to two hours....all fulfilled by TPWs.

Sadly I must report about a hope that was unfilled. Mary and Ela, because of weather conditions, did not go snowshoeing on Saturday as they hoped. So they walked instead. White streams of smoke followed them through High Park.

So you see hope does springs eternal in a walkers breast; that is for the walkers who walks the distance.

I am not convinced that Alexander Pope would like his saying used this way but nevertheless there you have it.

FYI:

If you haven't checked it out, there is a lovely 300m. skating trail at Samuel Smith Park (Kipling and Lakeshore area). In spring, summer and fall its a walking trail; free parking available.
April 2nd 2011 marks the Harry 5K or 8K - walk it or volunteer.
The Sporting Life is soon arriving on the 1st of May 2011.

A beautiful morning for a walk….

2011-02-15T13:26:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday morning was absolutely balmy, considering previous days’ temperatures. (And I had my trusty foot warmers, but probably didn’t need them!) We had a great turnout, around 13 hardy souls: great to see Catherine again, she’d been on vacation and walked with Phyllis one Sunday. We also welcomed Lorisa, who is getting back into athletics and thought she’d give power walking a go. (Besides, she’s wearing a fabulous, long, black number at the Brazilian Ball!)

It was a bit slippery on the first half of our route, and more than once we steadied ourselves after an unintentional slide. Once we were on the return trip where the sun was hitting the ground, we were able to make fairly good time. [Not quite as good as Diane’s group last week, but a very respectable pace.] And, Rorie and Helen who were more dedicated than the breakfast group (to which I belong) did a second loop.

A few of us chatted again about how great one feels out on the route. It’s a push sometimes to get out early on a Saturday morning, but the effort always pays dividends. So, if there are any of you who haven’t been out lately – we understand – but now that the weather’s warming up, join us again and feel the exhilaration of stretching by 9:45am, heading to breakfast and thinking, “I’ve got the whole day ahead!”

The breakfast group met Susan B who was holding the fort. She is recovering well from her injury and is hoping to begin training in six months’ time. As always, we chatted about a myriad of things including the Half Marathon in Pittsburgh and our loss of a couple of participants. If you are interested in joining either of the two teams, and haven’t already responded, please email tpw@rogers.com and your request will be forwarded to Barb DL who’s handling the administration for this trip.

Join the group on Tuesday night that’s become known as the Tuesday Night Keeners – see the sidebar for information.

Note: Interesting info from Lorna on the number of hits for our blog. A total of 1784 people from 33 countries have visited our blog, 1300 from Canada, over 200 from the

, and the rest of the list reads like a map of the world. TPWs are famous!

The joy of booting it…

2011-02-08T09:29:00.000-05:00

I confess I have been walking at a fairly leisurely pace since we came back to the cemetery. I haven’t been ambling, but I definitely have not been pushing myself. After all, it is winter and I need a break – that’s my inner whiner speaking.

But Saturday was different – I started out with Laurel and Jackie and we got talking, as we all tend to do (one of the nicest things about being part of TPW). I didn’t actually notice how briskly we were walking until about half way around. Then I began to notice that I was actually working at keeping up. I dug in and thought, okay, enough of the whining – let’s do some honest work.

We didn’t beat any records but we did finish in under an hour and it felt good to prove I could still boot it when I set my mind to it.

Which brings me to my point – so much of exercise is mental. Bend your will to just getting out there. Sometimes you will be feeling on top of the world, sometimes you will be dragging your butt – but, if you come out, you will feel better than if you didn’t! That is the one thing I can guarantee.

And you get to reward yourself with a delicious breakfast afterward.

Some of our group started race walking training on Saturday. Phyllis and Rorie had a great time with Stafford and Lily and the friendly group of race walkers. She said that they warmed up by walking twice around the upper roads of High Park and had a private session with Stafford learning the basics of race walking. The techniques seem simple, the hardest part is remembering to do it all – at the same time. Practice, practice. Mary W. has also joined the group, but is busy enjoying other winter activities such as snowshoeing. Other winter cross training activities going on appear to be skating (Lee, Suzanne) and skiing (Carol).

Next Saturday you can join us at the Mount Pleasant Cemetery or join the race walkers at High Park – and, if you are feeling keen, some of us will be out on Tuesday (see sidebar for where/when).

COLD BUT ENERGIZING….

2011-02-01T16:29:00.000-05:00

Fifteen dedicated women braved the cold on Saturday morning to keep up our maintenance training. It was great to see Deb out again – we’ve missed you!

Having returned late the night before from Las Vegas, I thought several times about giving the walk a miss but turning up for breakfast (well-known to be my favourite part of the walk). However, as we all know, we feel great when we’re finished and the route’s always a lot shorter than we think as we don our gear and leave home. Good friends, good conversation, lots of laughs, a bit of moaning (that would be me)…and it’s over! Rorie and Bev started on their second loop of the cemetery as our group finished its single loop around the perimeter.

After some hasty stretches, we were off to the restaurant for breakfast and lots of discussion about our upcoming races. The Pittsburgh teams are being juggled because a couple of participants are finding they won’t be able to attend.

Susan B joined us for breakfast and updated us on her injured ankle. She will continue to write the blog from the perspective of a sidelined athlete. We also heard this week from Rosemarie who’s not going to be back with us for some time. We wish them both a speedy recovery.

The 'Tuesday Night Keeners' are generally out in force on Tuesday night – see sidebar for details. See you next week!

Good turnout for a cold weekend

2011-01-25T09:12:00.001-05:00

A quick note to update the blog -

We had terrific turnout on Saturday, 16 bundled up walkers, walking fairly quickly around the cemetery. We applaud everyone's committment to walking, but especially those who were taking CPR training later that morning - it would have been quite easy to stay in bed an extra hour or two.

The next morning was even colder but some TPW walkers were out there. Many thanks to Helen B from Shorethings for taking this photo from the finish line of the 8K Robbie Burns race. It doesn't look too cold to me.

Spring is apparently around the corner, according to Helen S. We will be posting the half marathon training schedule soon, and the weekly details are contained in the training sidebar. As Helen indicated, we'll focus on Tuesday and Saturday distances for now, and re-introduce Thurs. night walking when spring really comes!

Starting in February some of us will be joining the racewalkers meeting at High Park with Stafford and Lily. If you are planning to come, great! If you're not sure, come and check it out. We will meet at the Grenadier Cafe at 9am!

Back to Reality

2011-01-17T11:17:00.000-05:00

It was great to see 12 of us out on the snowy Saturday morning at the cemetery. What troopers! I understand that a few more were coming for breakfast too.

It was nice to be back with our supportive gang. I shared stories from Goofy (see Helen’s perspective below), discussed arrangements for Boston with Lee and talked about the Google group with Margie – all in 6k!

Time marches on, and races keep on happening…we have a large crew racing in the Robbie Burns race in Burlington on Sunday Jan 23rd. We need people to cheer them on too! Plans are also in place for racing in Pittsburgh in May (contact Barb DL), in addition to volunteering at THE Boston Marathon (contact Lee).

For the bulk of the winter most of us will be walking at the Cemetery on Sat. mornings. A few of us are taking advantage of the quiet of winter and will be starting race walking training to tune up our form and potentially speed up our walking. We’ll be walking from High Park on Saturday mornings. No experience is necessary, feel free to join us. Contact Phyllis for further info on time and cost.

This post is brief so you can have time to read Helen’s Disney Goofy travelogue. In short – the race was terrific, we’d all do it again….in a heartbeat.

Helen's Disney Race Weekend

2011-01-17T09:48:00.001-05:00

Toronto Power Walkers arrived in Disney prepared to complete the Goofy Challenge of completing two races in one weekend. A half marathon followed by a full. Coupled with the distance challenge was the reality of getting out of bed at 3 am. Both races start time was 5:35.

Race 1 - Half Marathon
Ela, Lorna and Phyllis found me walking to the start line, unbelievable given there were 21,969 participants . We were in the last corral and that meant nearly an hour wait until we crossed the start line. We watched the fireworks and chatted about the race and what lay ahead. Four of us crossed the start line together and walked a few miles until Phyllis and Ela sped up. Nothing new there.

Lorna and I had a plan, walk a steady pace of 9:20 per kilometer which we were able to do most of way. The route was crowded and narrow in the parks. We were content to walk the distance at our pace. We were saving ourselves for the marathon. The route was lined with Disney characters, I would say, every mile or less. Many people stopped for photos of the mile marker or their favorite character. It was a lot of fun watching the characters and waving to them. My favorite was a the GI Joe type character that encouraged us to get up the hill, telling us we trained for it. Or maybe my favorite was the wedding singer, who looked so out of place on the side of the road. My most favorite 'characters' on the route were of course, Susan and her husband Alex and my husband Jim - our tireless cheering squad.

It was great to see them cheering along the route and at the finish. Lorna and I stopped and took a picture of our cheering squad. Their enthusiasm was contagious. We enjoyed the route and walked confidently, upright and smiling at the finish. We met up with Phyllis and Ela who finished 9 minutes ahead of us. We stretched and ate post race food of bananas, oranges, blueberry mufffins and powerade or water. We all returned to the Port Orleans Disney resort by bus. Ela, Lorna and Phyllis took the free water taxi back to the Disney Marketplace and from there walked back to their hotel. I went back to my hotel to soak and stretch in the pool rather than a cold bath followed by some reading and a nap. Ela , Lorna and Phyllis were more energetic than I, they went to the race expo Saturday afternoon. Ela even hit the outlet mall with Susan and Alex that evening!

Race 1 over - feeling great.

Race 2 - Full Marathon
The next morning I met Phyllis, Lorna and Ela at the letter T meeting spot . "T" for Toronto Power Walkers. We walked the distance to the start, about a 10 minute walk. It was colder than Saturday, we were wrapped in race blankets and had extra layers on. I wore a lovely beige wool turtleneck on top of my black Midsummer race shirt and I kept it on until 8K. Phyllis and Lorna shared a pair of gloves. Lorna proudly wore her Toronto Power Walkers jacket for the first half of the marathon. Lorna would run every so often and it was inspiring to see our logo from a few metres behind her.

Phyllis and Ela were ahead after a few miles and that was expected. They were aiming to keep below 9:15 but in reality they were averaging approx 8:40/k. Ela and Phyllis kept reminding each other to slow down. Lorna and I had one goal - to finish before 7 hours. Our strategy was to walk a comfortable 9:20 pace the full marathon.

There were some different Disney characters on the route, some we'd seen before and others not so familiar. The route takes you through four parks: Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios with the start and finish at Epcot . We saw areas not open to the public and backroads in Animal Kingdom . One thing I did not expect was animals out cheering us on but in the Animal Kingdom there were two goats and an owl out there with Disney staff . Lots of volunteers cheering, bands playing, cheerleader teams and Disney employees encouraging the participants.

There was a late model car club cheering us on complete with some members in fifties costumes, old cars and people riding unicycles. It was wonderful. At times Lorna and I thought how are we doing this? We didn't have the benefit of full training. So how is this possible?(Distraction and slower pace) As we entered Epcot for the last mile, I remarked to Lorna we could stop and buy a coffee and still make the cut off time. Of course we didn't stop and after seeing Susan, Alex and Jim at the finish we walked a little stronger with bigger smiles as we high-fived Goofy when we crossed the finish line. We were given our Mickey Mouse medal for the marathon and then a few more steps and we were given our Goofy medal for well, being Goofy and completing both races . Phyllis and Ela had finished 30 minutes ahead of us and were there to greet us at the finish. We all were the epitome of 'upright and smiling'!

We met for a celebratory dinner on Sunday night, joined by Beth (Phyllis's daughter) and our cheering squad, Susan , Alex and Jim as well as Phyllis and Lorna's colleague, Anne who also completed the Goofy, and her husband Rob. We all slept well that night, especially since we did not need to get up early the next morning.

Great fun, great races, and we'd all do it again! Susan - when you are physically up to it, we'll be there with you!

Happy New Year TPW!

2011-01-04T12:23:00.001-05:00

It is a brand new year my fellow walkers and all things are possible. If you haven’t been out for awhile or are new to power walking, make your resolution to come out and join us soon and, if you are a regular, start setting your walking goals for the up-coming year. Long distances or short, fast or slow, you are welcome to join us at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Yonge Street entrance, Saturdays at 8:30am. See the sidebar for more on our training schedule.

This Saturday saw us off to a slow start with only four crazy walkers out in the pouring rain. Phyllis, Bev, Martha and me (Diane). I was wet and cold at the end but my body was thrilled to be moving again. Two weeks of being fairly sedentary is not a good thing. Move it or lose it!

Phyllis is at the end of her training for the Goofy, along with several others of our gang. She was out again on Sunday with Helen, Rorie, Catherine, Mary G and Barb D-L for a 10K, the last before Florida. Susan B., who has been training faithfully, is on the injured list and so will not be doing the race but will be there cheerleading. We all wish you a speedy recovery Susan and best wishes for two great races to Lorna, Helen, Phyllis and Ela.

Looking forward to catching up with everyone on Saturday and perhaps with some of you on Tuesday at the pub.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-29T14:42:00.000-05:00

Our blog writers have been so busy this holiday season that we have been remiss in posting as often as normal. We all need a break from the routine sometime. That includes walking as well. It appears that most of our walkers were walking elsewhere, or in their sleep this weekend. We all need to sleep in a little too.

Our Goofy walkers are tapering for their Jan 8-9th mega walking event. They are working on coordinating and communicating travel arrangements with each other and ensuring that back-up plans are in place if we get the mega storm or some facsimilie that walloped the Northeast recently. The perils of winter racing extend beyond warm clothing and the wind chill factor.

If you are planning to join a group of TPW walkers who want to volunteer at the Boston marathon (Monday April 18th), be in touch with Lee who is coordinating the volunteer application. Don't book flights yet until we know that they want us!

Others have been planning the Pittsburgh racing weekend (May 15), trying to find suitably located hotels, and decide if they are walking in the relay or the half marathon. Given the approx. 7 hour drive, the travel details need to be worked out in order to decide which race to sign up for.

It's good to have goals to work towards through the winter, as we walk shorter distances and give our bodies a rest. Don't worry about the distance you go for a little while, walk for a specific time, enjoy the company of your fellow walkers, get to know the new folks, share with them why we keep on coming out week after week. The important thing is just to come out and walk! (breakfast is important too).

So come out this weekend - we're walking New Years Day, at 8:30am - once around the Cemetery, and that's it! (even for Goofy). On Sunday, we'll walk for 10-12k, same time, same place.

I hope to see you out on Sat/Sun - even if its raining or snowing....

Be A Reformed Couch Potato

2010-12-13T11:38:00.003-05:00

Twenty of us gathered at the cemetery and after our group picture was taken we started our walk through the cemetery. Most of us stayed within visual range of each other. Being so close to each other most of us were within hearing range of various conversations. The conversation that has remained with me is the one about expectations being barriers to getting and staying off the couch.

It seems that quite a few people give up before they start walking or shortly after starting to walk because they have the expectation that they should be fit enough to do a marathon or they should look a certain way to enter the marathon or they should be able to walk 2 K without huffing or puffing.

Since I found this disturbing I decided to write this blog for our recent newcomers who have moved off the couch and may be thinking of returning to it because of all these or other like type of expectations. There is something you need to know about those of us who have walked the distance . Maybe the revelation will be too much for you to handle , maybe it will shock you but nevertheless it needs to be said.

What you need to know is that for most of us long distance walkers we, during or shortly after attempting to complete our first 1 K, thought our lungs were going to pop out of our chest and vibrate on the ground in front of us. Weeks later, lungs still inside our body, (during and for some of us shortly after our first 5K),our hamstrings, calves and/or shins sent very strong messages that they would give out under us . We imagined the dreaded image of us ungraciously falling to the ground in one large heap, ambulances being called and someone waving their finger in front of our face saying “Are you crazy? What are you doing to yourself?”

As we continued (often mystified that we did not fall in a heap, or need to be whisked away to the hospital), we started to move the limiting expectations we had and the old negative imagery out of our lives . We started to carve out space and time so that there was room for us to move. For some of us it went as far as us carving out a space and time so that there was room for us to move what we wanted out of our lives and move things we wanted into our lives.

In other words, here it is, please sit before reading the next few words, many of us are former couch potatoes. Yes, though not members of couch potato anonymous, there are among us reformed couch potatoes.

Now it is not to say that walking does not require a particular technique or form, a 'to do' and 'not do to' list of activities. You will find that several of us reformed couch potatoes and non reformed couch potatoes alike (we mingle quite well in our group) will go to a variety of organizations to attain or update our walking technique i.e. WoW , Ontario Race Walkers etc. It is important to be trained properly and often members of our group leave to be trained and then return. Some of us subscribe to magazines and others read books on the subject of walking . Being informed is very important but it unlikely to sustain you . The application of the technique, walking the distance and let's not forget our gatherings and weekly breakfasts, together sustain those of us who are reformed couch potatoes. In other words walking is holistic; it is not narrowly defined. It's inclusive.

There are those of us who are very fast and some of us are very slow but the majority of us did not start out at an elite level. We have no expectations or goals for you, but we have a lot of encouragement and information to share.

During the next few days I will be walking the distance in Trinidad. If there are no family members in Trinidad who walk the distance then I walk it on my own. God willing, if my ankle is OK and I will walk the Goofy (Orlando Jan. 8,9). If not, then I will get better and walk the distance later. When I return to walk with everyone again, probably the third weekend in January 2011, at the cemetery, I will either have another story or be in training for another marathon in 2011.

So there you have it. Hopefully most of your negative expectations and assumptions about where you should be are smashed. We are soon to enter into 2011. Stay with us as we walk the distance. Come to Sherry’s on the Dec. 19th and in the New Year formally join the Toronto Power Walkers. A financial commitment (only $50) will keep you coming back.

From a reformed couch potato to you I want to state it is, it is, it is possible to be one of many reformed couch potatoes, it is, it is possible to move, it is, it is possible to keep moving, to keep learning and updating technique . Come, leave forever the illusionary comfort of the couch and with us - walk the distance .

A week in the life of a Toronto Power Walker….

2010-12-06T09:41:00.001-05:00

The last week was a very full one for TPW and I want to reflect on how it characterizes the best of what we are and do.

Last Saturday many of us volunteered to help build a house for Habitat for Humanity. With the notable exception of a few (that would mostly be you Laurel), we were an unskilled lot but game for whatever we were asked to do. We lifted, we hauled, we passed, we held, we hammered, we swept. We also laughed, chatted, problem-solved, moaned about our cold toes and the horror of using the port-a-potty (which wasn’t really all that bad) and, at one point, we even did a little aerobics routine. And wonder of wonders, we actually raised a wall with only one injury (poor Ela’s finger – ouch)!

In true TPW fashion, we worked hard as a team, kept our sense of humour and did something we could all be proud of.

Then, on Tuesday we gathered together for our annual end of season social at Harbord House Restaurant, our much appreciated sponsor. We were there in force, almost 30 strong, bearing our medals from the past year. It was great to see some old friends who, for various reasons, haven’t been out in awhile and to meet some new ones (welcome to our newcomers). The executive team (Sue, Laurel, Phyllis, Carol and Helen) made sure the evening ran like clockwork – nibblies, a slide show of the year’s highlights, info on upcoming races and a goodie bag (I love my magnetic flashing safety light and intend to wear it to holiday parties!). All that and sound finances that will allow us more exercise sessions with Barb G in the New Year.

We really showed how TPW combines fun, motivation to keep fit and the company of smart, committed and caring woman … and a few good men.

Then on Saturday a group of us were back at the cemetery for our regular, winter routine maintenance walk. Newbie, Margie, had an appointment so we collectively sacrificed our intended goal of 10K to do once around with her. (Okay, okay, maybe ‘sacrificed’ is a little strong…) There was a real bite in the air but the sun shone for the duration of our walk. Breakfast was as delicious and convivial as always.

So, over the last week as a member of TPW, I had the opportunity and encouragement to exercise, do something worthwhile for others, have fun, and interact with a group of incredible women … all for $50/year. What a remarkable organization.

And it doesn’t end there. A reminder that Sherry is hosting brunch on Dec. 19th. Reserve the date. Details to come.

PS from Phyllis: Incredible is a terrific word to describe the support the Goofy walkers received at High Park. We were pleasantly surprised to start out with nine of us walking the Lakeshore. We 'lost' a few along the way, but it was great to have Denise and Fiona, Rorie, Jackie, Mary and Bev, keeping Ela, Susan and Phyllis company for part of our 30k walk. James kept us company for the exciting section of the Lakeshore, east of the Westin, and back.

We were thinking of Helen who walked the distance by herself on Friday so she could have a few days at the cottage. We were also missing Lorna who planned to do her long walk closer to home. We have less than a month to the big race...I can’t wait until we get past Dec 18th, when we have to walk 35k! Then we’ll begin to get excited for the race... See you next week at the Cemetery!

TPW at H4H

2010-11-30T10:33:00.003-05:00

see next posting for details

Still training after all these months (with apologies to Paul Simon)

2010-11-23T11:47:00.003-05:00

What were we thinking when we signed up for Goofy? Did we know that the weekend before Christmas we were going to walk 35k? (at least it isn't the weekend OF Christmas...). We're crazy, but we'll get through it.

I'm sure the training will pay off but it was hard to get into walking 26k this weekend along the Lakeshore, again. We (Ela, Lorna and Phyllis) were fortunate to have company for part of our route as we were joined by Bev, Martha, Mary W. and Rorie. Helen almost had to walk her distance alone but Rorie convinced her that despite oversleeping, she could still meet up with the walkers (which she did) along the Lakeshore. Our fifth Goofy walker Susan B was laying low, nursing an ankle injury.

Conversation at brunch was quite animated as many of the walkers chatted with Stafford Whalen of Ontario Racewalkers about how he can improve our walking speed when we learn their technique. We'll talk more about that at our dinner.

According to Sue, our Mt Pleasant reporter, there was also a good turnout at 8:30am at the Cemetery, including some new faces. It's great to find new folks interested in walking with us. Keep up the good work on the TPW intake, Sue!

Next Saturday is our Habitat for Humanity work day for those who have signed up. We have space for one or two more volunteers if you are free on Saturday. Even if you are not signed up, you can always help out with a financial contribution.

Tuesday, Nov 30th is our year-end dinner. If you haven't sent in an RSVP, please do so, NOW. It'll be fun - 6:30pm at Harbord House

We're looking forward to seeing everyone on Nov. 30th - we need to plan out 2011! (as well as find folks that will walk part of the distance with us on Dec. 18th!)

Toronto Power Walkers and Random Acts of Kindness

2010-11-15T09:29:00.003-05:00

Though I was huddled (most of the way) between various walkers, I must say that I did not enjoy the fog as we walked through the graveyard. Rain, snow, lightning, throw in some thunderstorms and there is not a whimper from me. Block my visibility and the whimpering , whining can (if not controlled) reach far beyond what ever is blocking my visibility and (a bit exaggerated) to the heavens beyond.

Unknown to disgruntled me, Saturday, November 13th 2010 was World Kindness Day. I have read that there were 18 countries who celebrated World Kindness Day (Canada being one of them) and the non-profit organization at the centre of it all promotes acts of kindness. So I thought I would, for the purpose of this blog entry, note all the kindnesses that occurred during our walk together on World Kindness Day.

We waited beyond our start time for a member to show up
Fiona researched and verbally walked us through an updated route that would allow us individually to reach our goals
Sue, Diane, Lee, Laurel, Barb DL, Susan S, Deb, Carol, Martha and myself (in various groupings) looped to make sure Tara, Denise, Klara, and Fiona were visible to us (given the fog) and stopped looping when we felt that they were safe.
Sue, kindly volunteering to be the contact person for Habitat for Humanity, reminded a few of us that the cheques were to be written to the Habitat for Humanity (no cash please) – a group of us will be ‘kindly’ providing our services on the 27th of November 2010. Sue (kindly) is also our contact person for the November 30th 2010 gathering at Harbord House so email her at tpw@rogers.com regarding your intent regarding your attendance
The group allowed me to huddle between various members and listened to my constant whimpering – not once was I told to shut up
Our conversations were marked with kind suggestions, praise and very supportive
We commented with interest and kindness about those members who were not available
I noticed a woman bringing flowers to a grave (her image was surrounded in fog)
I noticed cars slowing down for us
I noticed people greeting us along the way

What strikes me is that what I observed within our group and outside our group are random acts of kindness that most of us engage in whether the conditions are foggy or not . They thread humanity together. So the world (or at least 18 countries) marks a day to celebrate what most of us engage in on a daily basis. I for one welcome the celebration because I think it is within most of our lived experience that it is random acts of kindness along the marathon of life that keep us walking the distance. Walk on,walk on.

Meanwhile, back at the cemetery…

2010-11-09T15:48:00.001-05:00

It is that time of year. Most of us have completed our formal training schedules for the year and are in maintenance mode. There are few notable exceptions who are aiming for the Goofy in January (goofy because they will do a half and marathon, back to back!) and we are all rooting for them.

Our maintenance default location is the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery which was very pretty this last Saturday. The last tattered beauty of the fall clung to the trees. As the sun came out it lit up the gold and the red and we oohhed and aahhed as we walked and talked. It felt very comfortable, sort of like coming home. There was an excellent turnout and it was great to see people like Deb who we haven’t seen for awhile. Just a reminder that even if you have been taking a walking sabbatical you are always welcomed back.

Nine of the group joined together for breakfast and we raised our teas and coffees in honour of Phyllis who was doing the New York Marathon the next day (and what a fabulous time 5hrs 46 minutes – huge congratulations to you Phyllis (see her description in the post below).

We will be meeting as a group on Saturdays only until after the New Year although you are all encouraged to do some other form of exercise in the meantime. Two reminders – if you haven’t signed up for the Habitat day (Nov. 27) or our TPW year-end dinner (Nov. 30) please take a minute right now and email Sue at tpw@rogers.com .

See you next Saturday.

New York, New York

2010-11-09T12:03:00.002-05:00

Applications opened yesterday for the 2011 ING NY Marathon.

If you want to see a well-managed race with spectators cheering from every nook and cranny of the course, you need to apply. There will be approx. 45, 000 others on the course with you, but from the back of the pack, it’s not shoulder-to-shoulder as it appears in the photos.

Five bridges to cross, stepping into all five boroughs of New York City. The most notable bridge is the first, the Verrezano bridge, with a slight incline and 1.5 miles from end to end. It takes you from Staten Island to Brooklyn.

You’re done half of the race by the time you leave Brooklyn, then walk a few miles in Queens, and enter Manhattan for the first time across the Queensboro bridge (59th street). The walk up First Avenue to the end of Manhattan seems longer than the four miles it really was, but between the crowd cheering, and the gels they gave out at mile 17, you find strength to go over another bridge to the Bronx for one mile.

Bronx was much better than I imagined, and the mile in the Bronx went by quickly. I’d forgotten there was a wall at mile 20 in the Bronx until someone’s sign reminded me that we were ‘through the wall’.

Across another bridge and I could feel slight excitement in my body as we headed back into Manhattan.. From the enthusiastic spectators in Harlem, the crowds kept growing as we headed down 5th Avenue to the last few miles in Central Park. Before you know it, we exit the park for what feels like a victory lap, with throngs of cheering spectators for the last 1.2 miles along Central Park South and back into the park to the finish line.

Just when you feel you’ve walked enough, unfortunately you have to walk another 10 blocks past the UPS trucks with checked bags to get out of the park! It gave me time to put a few layers of clothing back on as the air was cooler, and the sun was setting. It was dark by the time I exited the park. It would have been nice to have somewhere to stop and stretch at the end, but walking slowly was a nice relief as well.

A lovely well supported race. I would strongly recommend that you apply for it now as it may take you 4 years to get in!

What are you doing next Sunday?

2010-11-01T09:39:00.004-04:00

Next Sunday (November 7), at 10:40am when most of us will be home relaxing, Phyllis will be at the start line for the ING New York City Marathon. We'll be cheering you on!

Here's a link and her bib # (62351) to help track Phyllis's progress across the bridges and through the boroughs of New York.

'Walk the Distance', Phyllis!

Farewell to High Park

2010-11-01T09:36:00.001-04:00

Thirteen TPW’s met at the very civilized hour of 8am at High Park, for the last official Lakeshore walk for 2010. We walked 8-15k, turning around at the Inukshuk or as far as the Music Garden. We even ran into Rosemarie and David heading off to the Zoomer show at the Ex! We hope to see more of them and others at our year-end event. See below for more on that!

This marks the end of the official training season for most, as we head back to Mt Pleasant Cemetery for our 8:30am walks. We’re still walking on Tuesday evenings, but have gone back to our Rosedale location as the Reservoir is too dark (see sidebar for details on where we meet).

Important dates:

Nov. 27th – Habitat for Humanity – We have room for friends and family.
Nov 30th – Year-end dinner at Harbord House. We’ll celebrate the year that was and make plans for 2011. We are considering the Boston Marathon – no training will be required! Please come with all your medals from this year. RSVP please.
Jan 8/9th – First race of 2011 – Goofy - Marathon and a half, Orlando FL

Contact Sue at tpw@rogers.com to sign up for Habitat (6 spots left) or the year-end dinner.

We’re looking for volunteers to help write the blog next year. As you can see, it’s not that difficult!

Congrats to all for another successful year.

Have you seen the Energizer bunny?

2010-10-25T17:00:00.001-04:00

We, my husband and I, have not had a television for several years now, so I have no idea whether the television ads of the Energizer bunny are still around. Given our average age in the group I am sure everyone will remember the television ads. The bottom line to the ads was that the Energizer bunny (energized not by a bunny’s body but a battery) had the ability to endure and support various activities for very long periods of time. An example was that it could walk and clang cymbals at the same time.

The activity level of our group on Saturday and the upcoming activity level it will engage in, bring to my mind the image of the Energizer bunny. The only difference (and it is a huge difference) is that we are not energized by an artificial source. On Saturday I met up with Helen and Phyllis a little past 7:00 am. Walking out 2k with them along the Lakeshore we spoke about the latest marathon that some of our walkers have been in. Our conversation looked at it through the lens of a walker. I then circled back as they kept going for 21k.

A little past 8:00 am I met up with Barb, Bev, Ela , Diane, Fiona, Jackie, Lynn, Mary, Sue and Susan B. Conversations echoed the same ones earlier. Both groups had a very high energy and I have no doubt whatsoever that everyone met the personal goals they set for themselves. As for me, I again walked out 2K with this group and circled back.

Remaining at High Park I was joined by various members of our TPWs for breakfast. It was a nice gathering as people came in and out of the Grenadier Cafe. Very high energy; no artificial source there. Bacon, eggs, fruit cups, bread, steak and/or salad collectively fuelled us.

A little past 10:30 Ela, Lynn, Phyllis and Susan B. joined Stafford Whelan of the Ontario Race Walking Association for an information session on race walking. When I left them, individuals who had completed all sorts of distances were focused on what Stafford was telling them about race walking.

Now you can see already that the Energizer bunny (if it was really fuelled by a body) would start to perk its little ears and take notice. Maybe it would be experiencing a bit of anxiety, but wait there is more.

The ‘more’ has to do with all the other activities

hiking and ziplining (Lee and Suzanne hiking the Bruce Trail, Rorie ziplining in Collingwood)
our annual Harbord House gathering on the 30th of November 2010 (inform Sue of your interest in coming by e mailing her at tpw@rogers.com)
discussions at breakfast about some of us joining swimming classes and using the class for the purpose of cross training
building homes under the umbrella of Habitat for Humanity on the 27th of November 2010 (inform Sue of your interest in joining HFH by emailing her at address above) etc. etc.

So there we have it. Energy, energy , energy at the TPW ; we have energy.

By the way if the ads still exist and you do see the poor little Energizer bunny clanging away and walking just smile secretively because - it is my opinion and I suspect our collective knowledge that, the energy, the real energy , is with us, ' we who walk the distance'.

So keep on clanging and walking TPW, keep on clanging and walking!

An empty route - Rosedale Valley road, and University Ave

2010-10-18T15:44:00.007-04:00

A glorious weekend for a race…

2010-10-18T14:25:00.005-04:00

On Saturday morning, a group of ten met at the Cemetery at the most civilized hour of 8:30am (then again, some of us are certain to be on time by arriving half an hour early). We enjoyed a short 6k or so and breakfasted, musing about a variety of subjects. Then, the focus turned to our fellow walkers and the races each was doing next day. Plans to cheer along the way were formalized.

Sunday dawned as beautiful as Saturday – a race day to remember as Mary, Rorie, Lorna and Susan B, all finished the marathon with PBs. Fiona and Shirley completed the half marathon. Our entire group looked really strong as they passed – we are really proud of their achievements. (Check out the photos, here and posted earlier.)

Here’s an excerpt from Lorna’s thoughts on the race. “The day was perfect for the marathon...with beautiful weather and a really pretty race course. Unfortunately I found that the organization of the race wasn't all that great. In some places on the course there were no markers to guide us and no one to tell us where to go. Where they did have volunteers, they did a great job and they were very helpful and supportive.”

A group of us were stationed between Eglinton and Davisville – Barb DL, Carol, Sherry, Jackie, Janet D and Sue C – we cheered as Mary W, Rorie, Susan B., Lorna, Shirley and Fiona (with her personal cheerleader, Klara) passed, everyone looking strong. Rob (Barb’s main squeeze) gave us a high five as he breezed by. Also on hand – Bev and Ron at Davisville, Diane on Rosedale Valley Road, Lee on the Lakeshore below High Park, and of course, at the finish, Stuart and Stephanie (Rorie’s cheering squad), Susan B’s husband Alex and son Michael, plus those who waited for our group to arrive – Barb, Fiona, and Phyllis (who combined her training with providing company for Rorie, for 32k).

To all, our congratulations on finishing ‘upright and smiling’ in our usual JM (and TPW) tradition!

Two notes of interest:

1. Habitat for Humanity – November 27, 2010 – we have nine spots left so ask your family and friends to help out. Email tpw@rogers.com to confirm ASAP.
2. Tuesday, November 30, 2010 – 6:30pm – Our final gathering of the year. Please RSVP to tpw@rogers.com ASAP so that we can get a count. Wear all the medals you earned this year and bring guests who you think might be interested in joining the group.

We are back to High Park for the final two Saturdays in October with an 8:00AM start. Tuesday’s walks (6:30pm) will continue to the end of October at Rosehill Reservoir.

Please continue to come out and support those who are still training for their races – Phyllis for New York (November 7) and Helen, Lorna, Ela, Phyllis and Susan for the Goofy “Marathon and a Half” in early January.

Upright and Smiling

2010-10-18T09:23:00.001-04:00

No Complaints

2010-10-12T15:32:00.003-04:00

Who can complain about this weather? It was a glorious morning for walking – sunny, moderate temperature, and very little wind. Not only that we started at 8AM, and only walked 13k!

It was a well deserved reward for Rorie, and Mary who are tapering for their marathon next weekend. Susan and Lorna are also in the same race. Woohoo!

The race is on Sunday, it starts from Mel Lastman Square at a civilized 9am and ends at Queen's Park (around 3ish for the marathoners). Come and cheer them in! We’re coming to the end of racing season for most of us.

The plan is generally as follows:

· Saturdays in October will continue at High Park at 8am. We move back to Mt Pleasant Cemetery in November (8:30 start) until next April.
· Tuesday walks continue until the end of October as well.

‘Goofy’ walkers (or anyone else who is interested), will continue walking from High Park as long as the weather permits, with an 8am start as well. This will be our ‘long walk’ day, and you can do your short walk either on Friday or Sunday as we try to simulate the back-to-back walking effort required for the marathon and a half race.

A few other dates to note:
· November 27th is our Habitat Build. Deadline for TPW signup is this week! Please contact Sue at tpw@rogers.com. We have committed to 20 spots and will open up the remaining ones to those that are attending and want to bring someone along and then to others.
· November 30th – our year–end ‘black and medals’ dinner at Harbord House. Further details to follow, but mark your calendar. If you have a friend or colleague who is considering joining us, bring them along. Don’t forget, wear ALL your medals from the current year.

Whether you’re racing or not – keep walking the distance, keep walking...

Waking in the dark and walking in the sunshine…

2010-10-04T18:42:00.000-04:00

It really felt like fall on Sat when I woke at 6:00 and it was pitch dark out. On the drive west to High Park, I kept looking in my rear view mirror hoping to see the rising sun … and finally saw the sky softening behind me at about 6:40.

When I arrived I found we were out in force. Phyllis commemorated the occasion with a new picture (not our best shot, but the sunrise was lovely!) of the group taken against a fabulous pink sunrise. We were all there to support those who are doing the up-coming Toronto Marathon on Oct. 17 and to walk our own distances from 10-21K. Carol and I did about 12K and felt good about it. It was a gorgeous morning and it felt great to be alive. The Lakeshore in the early morning was spectacular.

Over breakfast we chatted about Mary’s place in France, the walker’s only race in Kitchener/Waterloo, husbands who may or may not be great handymen and other earthshaking topics. Next week is High Park again. Some of us are going to come for 8:00 and hope to catch the 7am group for breakfast.

Tuesday is the Reservoir at 6:30pm. The plan is to keep up the routine until after the Marathon and then we will revert to the cemetery at 8:30 on Saturdays.

Remember to sign up for Habitat for Humanity on Nov 27th (tpw@rogers.com) if you are interested.

Why we train

2010-09-27T11:57:00.002-04:00

I’m sure we’ve all asked ourselves this question, especially when it’s early and dark on a Saturday morning in the Fall, or early Spring.

We train because on race day, we want to finish ‘upright and smiling’. We don’t want to be limping across the finish line, or require medical attention after we get there. We want to be well trained to ‘walk the distance’, and still be able to celebrate our achievement with family and friends. We train because you never know how you are going to feel on race day, or what the weather will be, whether they will have Gatorade on the course, or not. You don’t know if your source of inspiration (your music) will conk out or not. Whatever happens, on race day, be prepared to adjust – your effort and your expectations.

This weekend our walkers were out there – in Toronto at the Scotia Half, and in training at High Park, and in Waterloo at the first walkers only half marathon.

Kudos to Bev and Jackie for a blistering finish at Scotia. They more than met their time goals. Laurel and Sue cheered them in. They also met Carol and some of her pals at the 5k finish, and despite Carol's lack of training, she was all by herself in a group of runners and finished very strongly. They also cheered in Laurel's beau, Jeff who finished in great spirits and good time.

Helen, in her role as marathon ‘sweep’, walked the first half with the back of the marathon pack, who were primarily first timers. As to be expected, she motivated them to move faster, by the time she left them halfway. Helen was pleased to say that she herself did the distance without any problems and felt great, which surprised her as she hadn't walked much at all since July. Goofy isn’t looking so daunting any more! We’re glad that you’re getting back into it Helen!

On Saturday, Susan B. apparently hit her own PB for the same distance, training far from the madding crowd. She is well placed for her full marathon in a few weeks. Diane & Sue enjoyed an 8am start from High Park (they'll be there at 7am next weekend) and did a respectable under 9k out to the gazebo and back and then had breakfast.

Meanwhile in Waterloo, over 200 walkers assembled at 7am for a very quick start to the half marathon. (Note: we arrived at 6:40am, and wondered where everyone was as the start line at Waterloo Square was barren). Six of us were there – Mary, Ela, Lorna, Sherry, Linda and Phyllis. Katharin H joined us for dinner the night before. She says hello to all and vows to back out walking. We’re looking forward to her self titled “Old(ish) woman walking” blog.

The weather was chilly, only 6 degrees, with the promise of a balmy finish line temperature of 9! Some of us were dressed in as many as four layers, while others were in tank tops and shorts. There were four walking judges on the course to ensure we all had at least one foot on the ground at all times, and had a relatively straight leg.

The course was basically a large square through lovely neighbourhoods, including the university and RIM’s campuses. It was a surprisingly hilly course too, but nothing that we couldn’t handle. The fastest race time for this race – not by any of us, for sure, was 2:15! There were also races for five and ten kilometre distances.

It was a race I believe that many of us would do again, and if you stay overnight –it actually feels like a mini vacation.

Next race coming up is the Toronto International Marathon – in mid October. Until then many of us will be training, so that we can handle whatever happens on race day.

P.S. Even if you are not racing, please come out and walk, whatever the distance, we need you to keep us company.

Tapering … well, some of us are, anyway!

2010-09-21T10:16:00.000-04:00

Our numbers were diminished as we met at High Park last Saturday for the last training session of the summer – even though it’s felt like fall for a few weeks now. Some would say this is the best time of year. The air was cool and the sun bright as everyone set off.

Jackie and Bev did their final 13k in preparation for the Scotia Half. Ela and Mary set out on their 35k, training for the KW Walking Classic and Toronto International. Lee returned after 15k and Fiona walked the distance. Carol and Linda, back from summer breaks, did a good 10k and breakfasted with Lee when she returned. Others, having finished their target half marathon the week before, took a Saturday morning off to enjoy family and friends – and relished it!

Our training is coming to fruition – most of the races our group has trained for are upon us: the Scotia 5k (Carol), Scotia half (Jackie, Bev) and the KW Walking Classic (Ela, Mary W., Lorna, Phyllis, Sherry, Linda, Katharin) – both coming up on September 26th. We have entrants in the Prince Edward County Marathon (Lorna) and the Toronto International Marathon (Rorie, Mary W. Lorna, and Susan B.) – both in October. Phyllis is pounding the pavement to storm New York in November at the ING New York City Marathon. The training continues as Ela, Helen, Lorna, Phyllis and Susan B. train for the Goofy’s Race and Half Challenge held at Disney World in early January. They’ll be looking for company as they will be walking two days back-to-back to simulate the race.

An announcement is forthcoming regarding our final get-together (‘black and medals’ – meaning – wear all your medals to the gathering) in November as well as information on our charity effort this year at Habitat for Humanity.

As always, on Tuesdays we have interval training at the Reservoir at Rosehill and Thursday is our tempo walk (see the sidebar for details).

Congratulations to those who have finished their races for the season. We are looking forward to supporting their fellow TPWs in their upcoming races. Best of luck to those who are racing this weekend – and if you would like to cheer the group in at the finish line, please contact Sue at tpw@rogers.com so we can set up a time to meet.

Together We Walk the Distance

2010-09-16T09:26:00.003-04:00

Bev, Jackie, Rorie, Sandy and I met in front of the Grenadier restaurant in High Park. During the same morning Barb C. , Ela, Diane, Laurel, Lee, Mary,Phyllis and Sue gathered at the ferry. All of us had a distance we intended to walk.

While we zipped along the Lakeshore, they were pounding the pavement, completing the Island Girl Half Marathon or 5K. All of us completed our intended distances sometimes leaving some runners 'in the dust'.

The weather was a bit on the cool side but it was welcomed, given the distance. It did not take long for some of us to start 'delayering'. I suspect that Lorna, Carron and Kathryn G. (who were volunteering at the Island Girl Half) felt the coolness in a different way than those of us who were moving.

Approximately 200 women and two men (one of which was Phyllis’s husband) participated in the Island Girl Half. With two events on the Lakeshore going on at the same time we had to, in order to keep our pace up, make adjustments.

Though I was the last, to return to High Park, I did not have to eat breakfast alone. Fiona (we had met her and Klara earlier in our walk) walked back to High Park with me . Our conversation lasted long after the breakfast was over. Most of the group from the Island Girl Half gathered at Cocoberry for a late lunch.

As usually the separation by geography did not have a negative impact on our group. Today was a shining example of this. The geography had our group physically separated but we were together in the act of walking.

Congratulations to all who walked their intended distance, thank you to those who supported us and as usual together or apart, we Walk the Distance.

Windy days and the bittersweet end of summer…

2010-09-08T09:18:00.000-04:00

On Saturday fall arrived overnight. The cool and the wind were a bit of a surprise to the eleven Power Walkers who met at the Grenadier. We were all wearing long-sleeves for the first time in awhile – and we were glad of it.

Our walking goals ranged from a modest 13K for those doing the Toronto Island Girl Half this Saturday (hooray I was one of those) up to 35K for those doing marathons in October (hooray for those more disciplined souls).

The return walk was a battle against the wind – we decided it qualified as resistance training as we cursed every foot of the way. The end of the walk and breakfast were never so sweet. We raised our coffee and tea in salute to those still doing their distances.

Some of us are getting to the end of our training for the season but will continue to meet at High Park until the marathoners have completed theirs. This Saturday is the Island Half but those who are not participating will be meeting at the regular spot outside the Grenadier.

The Catch Up Phase

2010-08-30T08:23:00.005-04:00

Doing the Can Can

There was an anxiety I experienced in the beginning of the catch-up phase; not enjoyable. It was hovering over me on Friday, I was unable to shake it. By Saturday, when I arrived at High Park around 7 am, it was in my throat and stomach. Anxiety, for me , tends to rest in those places.

Walking the distance in our group is marked by meeting our own individual goals and I was two weeks behind in my long distance Saturday training goal. The Toronto Marathon is in October , just a turn around the corner, so you can imagine how anxious I was.

The day was beautiful; sun shining, excellent company. Eleven of us gathered in High Park for our weekly long walk. The distances varied from 8 to 27 K and all walked the distance they set up to do. Conversations, as they usual do, flowed from one subject to another.

Somewhere between High Park and the Music Garden, between the conversations with two of our four new members, between conversations with members who I have walked with right back to the Jean Marines days, the anxiety left me. I realized this at my Westin 'pit stop' after returning from walking down Cherry St. I was so focussed on walking that I missed when the group walking ahead of me, turned off to explore the new Sugar Beach along the Lakeshore.

I am still in the catch-up phase. My achy body has made it known that it is not too pleased with the time that I have taken time off from my regular training. It's a bit unfair given that it is the same body which is riddled with allergies and just recovering from bronchitis.

Though I am not thrilled about being in the catch-up phase I am glad that the anxiety is gone. It was a pleasure to have finished walking the distance without it and being in the company of a great group.

So, for all of us who are in the catch-up phase and for all of us who are not - Walk the Distance , Walk the Distance for we are true endurance athletics. Especially with breakfast waiting for us at the end (smile)

Additional Note from Phyllis:

Change in training....hills are over, we're back to the Reservoir for intervals. Check the right side of the page for directions. Also, this Thursday we're starting our first 'raspberry' walk - out from the community centre, and back via Phyllis' house with the overabundant raspberry bushes. Come join us and enjoy all the raspberries you can eat. How's that for incentive!

Angels wings, tattoos and magic wands

2010-08-24T13:58:00.001-04:00

In typical Shakespeare fashion, we (Rorie, Sue, Diane, Lorna, Jackie, Susan E., Phyllis, Lee and Suzanne) joined hundreds of other similarly clad angels, nymphs and mortals as we frolicked in the evening mist. (okay, maybe not frolic, and it was more rain than mist by the end) in the colourful and fun 15k Midsummer Nights Run on Saturday night. It was certainly a nice change from walking along the Lakeshore.

Shorter days, cooler weather and the calendar are telling us that summer is drawing to a close. I’m ready for Fall, how about you?

A few training notes:

Tuesday will be our last hill workout before we head back to the Reservoir for intervals
There may be a few walkers out on Thursday if you want to join them. On a Thursday in September we’ll walk by Phyllis’ house to graze on her raspberry bushes, as a reward for coming out on a Thursday night.
On Saturday, the long walk for the half marathoners coincides with a medium distance for the marathoners….we’ll spend most of the morning together.

If you haven’t been out for a while, don’t worry, you don’t need to walk the long distances. Just come out, we’d love to hear what you’ve been up to.

It's coming soon....

2010-08-16T19:05:00.000-04:00

You know that the summer is coming to an end when:

it's time to pick up your race package for the Midsummer Night's run (more on that later),
'back to school sales are advertised everywhere,
you start planning your fall activities around your 'long walks' - no late Fri night dinner parties, not much of anything on Sat, as you're either walking or recovering from walking.

This past weekend was a long walk weekend. Six of us - Sue, Diane, Ela, Rorie, Catherine (a potential new TPW member) and I gathered at Mel Lastman Square at 7am to begin our long walk - 35k for some, 21k for others. We walked down Yonge street, all the way to the Lakeshore (can you believe it is only 14.5k?). Sue and Diane stayed with the marathoners until Bathurst street where they headed north. Diane told me that they hit their distance just about the same time they spied Fran's, and of course stopped in for a well deserved breakfast.

Ela, Rorie and I were well on our way along the Lakeshore heading to the Humber river by then, and went north to approximately the Old Mill. We all survived! I think the subway ride home was more exhausting than walking! I apologize if I didn't mention walkers who met at High Park - no one has acknowledged that they were there!

Given how hot this summer has been, I'm ready for some cooler weather. I look forward to wearing long pants and light sweaters. I'm also looking forward to the next while when it seems like every two weeks there's a race.

This Saturday, August 21st at approximately 6:45pm, we'll be heading out for a 15k walk basically out the Leslie St. spit, and back. If you're not walking, come along and cheer...the costumes are great to see. If you're racing, meet us at 6:15pm near the long row of porta-potties. It would be fun to get a group shot. Wear a garland or wings or something fun, to get into the spirit. Sue is planning a pub excursion following the race. Are you interested? Contact her if you are. Also don't forget the pool party the following afternoon at Rorie's house.

A few weeks later is the Island Girl Half Marathon on Toronto Island (Sept 11th). You don't need to be female to race.

The Scotia Marathon/Half Marathon and the Kitchener-Waterloo Walking only Half Marathon are two weeks later (Sept 26th). We have walkers in both half-marathons.

In mid October we have the Toronto Marathon, and at least 3-4 of our group are racing that day. Lots of chances to race, volunteer or just cheer.

Bring on Fall....Toronto Power Walkers are well trained and up for the challenge!

The island in the sun

2010-08-09T09:16:00.001-04:00

Have you ever had a day when all the stars align and the gods smile on everything you do? Well that was Saturday for me.

The weather was perfection. Fourteen TPWalkers met at the ferry docks to catch the 8:00 boat to Centre Island with a view to ‘testing’ the route for the September Island Girl Half. Roughly half of us were doing 16K and the other half 22-24K. We walked, we talked, we soaked in the beauty and quiet of the route, and marvelled at the sights along the way. Wasn’t it grand not to be dodging maniac bicyclists and what was that guy doing dressed in a wedding gown anyway?

As usual we covered topics from the profound to the silly and back again. Phyllis had made a reservation at the Rectory, a lovely restaurant not far from the Ward’s Island ferry dock. We were seated on the patio, an unbelievably lovely spot bordered and shaded by tall trees. My scrambled eggs, drizzled with porcini mushroom reduction, were delicious (and Sherri’s Belgian waffles were the envy of the table).

We all commented on the beauty and calm of the moment. There we sat, pleasantly weary from our exertions, full of excellent food, in the company of friends – it doesn’t get much better. You could hear the trees whispering and I think I heard them saying we were a lucky bunch! We will be back.

And, to top off my wonderful morning, that evening my husband took me on a date to the Old Mill where we sipped wine and listened to Joe Sealy playing mellow jazz on the piano. Truly a day to tuck away to remember on those days when nothing goes right.

Tuesday we are still doing hills and next Saturday we are back at High Park (except for the marathoners who are walking 35k from Mel Lastman Square in preparation for fall marathons).

Spicing up our walks

2010-08-03T09:53:00.005-04:00

This Saturday a crowd of at least 10 walkers started out from High Park shivering as we walked. Yes, I said shivering. Can you imagine that it was only 14 degrees, on the long weekend in August? No complaints from my fellow walkers, mind you.

After a quick 4k around the park, we headed out to walk our distances between 10 and 32k and to face the crowds along the Lakeshore for Caribana. The crowds were relatively thin, but the excitement of Caribana was palpable from the vendors selling a variety of delicacies to the families setting up prime viewing and partying areas. It was noticeably quieter when Rorie and I continued west past High Park to make up our 32k distance. It was also much hotter than when we started out.

Next weekend (Aug 7), we are meeting at a different location – the Ferry docks at 7:45am, for an 8am ferry. No five minute grace period on the ferry! Fare is $6.50 (return), and our plan is to walk our 16k and 24k, before grabbing brunch at the Rectory Cafe, near Wards Island. We’re taking the Centre Island ferry at 8am. If you miss it, take the next ferry, whichever comes first, and start walking! Most of our walk will be along the road/path at the south side of the island. We hope to see you there!

The week after that (Aug 14) will be the long walk (35k) for the marathoners, starting at Mel Lastman square, simulating the route for the Toronto Marathon in mid October. Others will most likely be walking from High Park that morning.

Sat. Aug 21st is a fun race day – Midsummer Night’s Run (or walk). Who’s participating this year? Do you have your fairy outfit ready? It’s not required, but it’s more fun if you dress up a little. That Sunday is potentially Rorie’s pool party. We’ll know soon if it’s still on. We’ll keep you posted.

That takes care of most of the ‘dog days of August’. Come out and walk with us, whenever you can!

Staying motivated is hard, right about now

2010-07-26T18:55:00.004-04:00

Staying motivated is hard, right about now

We were grateful that the weather was cooler than the previous Saturday, but rain was also forecasted and we didn’t want to get caught out on the Lakeshore in the rain (been there, done that..most of last summer). Ten of us were there at our usual 7am meeting spot at the Grenadier Cafe in High Park. Most of the walkers were going for 13k and Rorie and I were going for 27k (are we the only TPW marathoners without a life??). To make a long story short – walking and talking, as usual, made the miles fly by.

Regardless of whether you are training for a marathon or a half marathon, now is about the time when a sane person would ask the question – why? Why am I getting up early every weekend and walking, and walking? Why am I training twice a week as well? There are millions of other activities that we could be doing, including sleeping, eating, drinking something more exciting than water or Gatorade.

If you haven’t ever completed a race, you may not have the answer to these questions. We do this because we know how terrific it feels to cross the finish line, ‘upright and smiling’. You can complete these races without training, but you may be crawling over the finish line. We train because we want to be in the best shape we can when the race begins - there are so many unknowns and uncontrollable factors on race day, at least we can ensure that we are as ready as we can be. So next time when you groan as your alarm goes off early on Sat. morning, take a moment to think about crossing the finish line, with your arms held high, for a photo finish!

To keep motivated over the summer, sign up for some fun races. Many of us are participating in the Midsummer Night’s Run. It is great fun, you can’t complain about the sun in your eyes, other than the lovely sunset over downtown Toronto. Dust off your fairy wings, don your flower garland and join us on August 21^st. It’s a fun 15k.

Another fun race to look forward to is the Island Girl Half Marathon on Toronto Island on September 11^th. Your entry fee includes the ferry ride too. For those who don’t like getting up too early...the race doesn’t start until 9:30am. We’re planning a training walk on the island in August, so you’ll become familiar with the course. And yes, we’ve figured out where to go to breakfast as well.

I think we have enough going on to keep us going through August and early Sept. Next time we’ll talk about a few more fall half marathons – Scotia and Kitchener Waterloo (both on Sept 26^th), Toronto International in October.... I’m feeling excited and energized already. I’ll need it because the marathoners are scheduled to walk 32k this week! The first 32k each year is always the toughest.

So, I’ll see you out this Tuesday for hills?

Stay cool while you walk‏

2010-07-23T14:02:00.001-04:00

I know that we sound like a broken record, but it bears repeating...

We walk early because its hot, and walk the Lakeshore route because it's generally 'cooler by the lake'. Nonetheless, you can do a few things to ensure that you are not dehydrated or get heatstroke.

DRINKS

Night before - Fill a bottle halfway with your favorite walking beverage, freeze it overnight, and top it up in the morning. Another method is to fill your water bottle with ice cubes and fill in the gaps with gatorade or water.

Before you start- Drink VERY COLD liquids before you start walking, the icier the better. (there is a market for gatorade slushies)

En route - keep drinking cold liquids - a big swig at least every 15 minutes, and extra water when you consume a gel or other overly sweet product. Bring money to buy extra refreshments en route (and for breakfast!) or bring two bottles of frozen water/gatorade.

After walking - drink another 8 ounces at least. Drink enough water to make you pee within 30-60 minutes.

CLOTHING

Wear a light hat!!!! (didn't your mother tell you that?....she was right)

Bandana/washcloth is useful to dunk and cool off with.

The joy of walking

2010-07-12T13:39:00.000-04:00

For me, Saturday was perfection! The heat wave had broken and six of us (Phyllis, Diane, Mary, Sherry, Jackie and Linda) had the pleasure of wonderful walking weather. Phyllis and Mary did 24K, meeting up late in their walk with Fiona, who was doing 13K. The rest of us did 16.

There are times when I think we are collectively insane for getting up at an ungodly hour to cover long distances -- but not this time. I remembered all the things I love about walking – the combination of cool shade under the park trees and the full sun (in moderation) along the waterfront; the passing parade of dogs, inline skaters, geese, rowers, swans and the mostly polite bicyclists; the ever changing conversations about everything under the sun and the moon; the feel of my body moving smoothly and efficiently; the sense of accomplishment as I hit the hill and realize I have relatively effortlessly walked a distance many don’t even contemplate; and of course, the simple joy at the end of eating when I am truly hungry. A grilled cheese sandwich never tasted better.

This does not mean that I won’t whine and complain at some point but deep down I know I love it and hope I can keep it up forever. We are wonder women, we Toronto Power Walkers. Hip, hip hooray for walking!

Remember that we are doing hills this Tuesday (I can feel a whine coming on already) – see the sidebar for details. Let’s all cross our fingers for decent weather.

Ideas: Old and New

2010-07-05T09:21:00.004-04:00

Four of us met at High Park (Helen, Lee, Sherry and me) on Saturday. We discussed contractors, triathlons(Sherry had finished first in her age group), enabling large building complexes to take on more of a friendly community structure, having fun as well as information relating to our personal lives.

Looking for something to write about, I thought it would be fun to focus on the discussions and four ideas I (more or less) heard. I also thought it would be fun to translate the four points into references for 'walking the distance'.

So here is my try at this:

Trust that the contractor will not be doing the last finishing touches, the ones that make a home really feel like a home. Point: apply constant vigilance to secure an outcome.
If 500 people are in the water and there is a thunderstorm with lightning threatening, do trust that the organizers will not let 500 people fry in the water. Point: engage in what you are doing to the best of your ability as long as it is deemed safe.
Choppy waters require you to move with more effort and determination. Point: move baby move, in a forward direction and with purpose; the finish is just around the corner.
Bring the friendly neighbourhood in, to building complexes that have flat roof tops with plenty of play area for the kids to enjoy the natural vegetation. Point: if it is not friendly on the street, move to a safe location on the roof and create a safe, friendly atmosphere.

The translation of the above ideas to walking the distance could look something like this:.

Be constantly vigilant and engaged in doing what is required to 'walk the distance' in the best form, in the safest neighbourhood and if weather conditions are 'choppy', move baby move in a forward direction and with purpose because the end is just around the next corner. If it is not safe outside (too much ice etc.) then walk indoors.

A bit disjointed but not a bad attempt.

In terms of recent events:.

Barb's walking skills refresher sessions were well attended, and we will all be thinking of her as we walk those long walks on Saturdays or try to speed up in our next race. Thank you Barb..
On Thursday, Phyllis, Rorie, Deb and Diane met at Pottery Rd at the leisurely hour of 8:00am and celebrated Canada Day with a beautiful walk through the ravine. Good chatting and good walking.

This week we begin hill training on Tuesday nights. We meet at the North Toronto Community Centre, walk over to Sherwood Park, up and down the hill a few times, back to the community centre and then off to dinner or home. Come out - it's fun.

Ideas (old and new) and fun abound for those of us who walk the distance.

Where was everyone this weekend?

2010-06-28T18:07:00.000-04:00

Perhaps it was the weather, perhaps it was G20, but for whatever reason, we were fewer walkers than normal. I guess it is a sign that summer is here and between cottages and vacations, our numbers will fluctuate.

We (Sue, Carol, Diane, Susan S., Rorie, Phyllis and Jackie, friend of Carol’s training for the Scotia Half) were seven at Sunnybrook Park, starting up at Edwards Gardens at 7am. We weren’t alone as an equal-sized group of walkers training for the two-day Weekend to End Women’s Cancer as well as some runners from Team in Training were on the trails with us, not to mention the umpteen cyclists as well. Given the humid rainy day that it was, we were just happy that we came out and walked our distance (15-18k), regardless of the pace.

Ela and Helen met up at High Park with each walking home from there after a snack at Grenadier Cafe and a long chat. Helen was brave and walked up Bay Street, fortunately hours before the violence began.

A few items of note for this short and strange week:

Training with Barb Gormley
– please meet in front of 7 Jackes Ave. Reports from the session last Thursday said that the training was excellent, but be prepared to work hard! It was a good refresher of walking technique and stretches. Bring a bathing suit if you want a quick swim at the apartment pool (thanks Klara).

Walking on Canada Day (Thursday)
– a few of us decided to take advantage of the day off and walk our long distance on Thursday instead of Saturday. It is unlikely that we will start at 7am, unless the forecast is very very hot, and the location is yet to be determined. Contact Phyllis if you are interested in joining us.

Saturday – the group will be meeting as usual in High Park at 7am.

Enjoy the week. Happy Canada Day!

Training, walking and more training

2010-06-21T18:31:00.003-04:00

The week past began with Yasso's at Central Tech field followed by our dinner meeting on Tuesday night. We had a terrific turnout. Our focus was on training, races for the remainder of the year and of course the wonderful food at the Harbord House. It was exciting to see that the group is committed to a number of races this summer and fall.

Walking the distance on Saturday meant having faith that it would not rain!(and it didn’t until we returned to High Park). We were a group of approx 10 walkers; Phyllis, Rorie, Diane, Sue, Fiona, Mary, Ela, Lorna, Susan B. and Linda.

Most walked 15k and 16k on Saturday, continuing our training for fall races. It was humid as we walked east from High Park turning at Simcoe Street. I walked further east to Bay Street, then north on Bay past the fencing for G20. Police were stopping cars as the drove west into the G20 zone, some were rerouted. I admit to strolling through this area as I was curious.

Next Saturday, to avoid the G20 gridlock, we are meeting at Lawrence and Leslie at Edwards Gardens @7am, there’s lots of parking. Anyone know of a good place near there for breakfast? Ela and a few others living on the west side of the city will also be meeting at High Park at 7am to walk.

Coming up this week:

Tuesday June 22-Rosedale - intervals.... Visit the blog for training details.
Barb Gormley is coaching two sessions on Thursday June 24 and Tuesday June 29th, Please select one to attend and RVSP @ TPW@rogers.com

Honk On, Honk On

2010-06-13T18:02:00.006-04:00

I find that when I am writing for the blog I seem to focus on snapshots of existential experience. Eventually as I prattle on about whatever the experience is, I ground it in some over-arching value or at times an event. I do not know why I chose to write this way but I know it comes natural to me. Time to prattle.

Today 12 of us met around 7 am in High Park and later 3 joined in the walk by the water. The air was a bit heavy, cool not cold and some of us delayered after we had walked a few kilometres. Other than a reminder to e-mail Sue (tpw@rogers.com) about attending the training/function at Harbord House this Tuesday and to e-mail Rorie about going to her pool party this August there were no messages to pass on. Note that we meet at the track on Tuesday night at 6:30pm at Central Tech (Bathurst and Harbord) for our warm up, Yasso 800’s, and cool-down, before walking east on Harbord to dinner.

I left the group so I would be on time to join the Ontario Race Walkers at 9 am and met up with three members of our group walking in the direction our group was going. In exchanging hellos I heard the roar of motorcycles and was told that they were related to the Ride to Conquer Cancer. I heard the honking sound of the geese mixed in with the rumbling sound of the motorbikes. I looked over to my left only to see the geese landing on the water.

Further along my walk to High Park I saw hundreds of bicycles(they were ‘riding’ to conquer cancer). A sea of various brightly coloured shirts flowed by me. Again I heard the geese honking as they flew in the sky over me. While waiting to cross the highway I heard the geese honking as they waddled by the highway. They just consistently and persistently made themselves heard whether it was through the rumbling of the motorbikes or what appeared to be the passing of hundreds of bicycles with bright colours whizzing by them. They were loud and as visible as the bicycles, bright shirts and motorcycles.

While walking up the hill at High Park it hit me that we, as walkers, are like these geese. We have a consistence and persistence that moves us to walk the distance. Though we do not create the sound of the geese our presence makes us known. Our presence is our honk. Like the geese we are present when the
bicycles ride by us, we are present when the cars drive by us and we are present when the motorcycles drive by us. Just like those geese today we consume space and we move. So for all of us who walk the distance, honk on, honk on.

Lesson learned …and up-coming social events!

2010-06-08T09:10:00.003-04:00

It seemed such a good idea at the time. Way back when a bunch of us signed up for the Toronto Women’s Half and then, sometime after, we signed up for Cleveland because we felt a road trip would be fun. I remember at the time thinking, “Two half marathons in two weeks, in the spring. Hmmmm.” Then I forgot about it.

Well, Cleveland was fun ... the Toronto Women’s not so much (hot, hot, hot coupled with fatigue). I hope I have learned my lesson and won’t ever again over extend when I am not fully trained. Save yourself grief and learn from me grasshopper.

This is all to explain why I was so tired this past Saturday and why there was no way on earth that I was doing the 16-18K on our training schedule. We do need to remember that our bodies need time to recover after exertion and allow for that.

Regardless of my complaints, there was a good turnout at High Park – thirteen of us on a hot and hazy morning. A group of us opted for ‘out to the gazebo and back’ (about 11K) while others went the full 16-18K. Good for those that did. And I vow to buckle down and start to train seriously for my fall Island Girl Half. Thankfully there is always time to regroup and start anew.

Lots of events up-coming – note that on June 15 we will be training at Central Tech at 6:30 and adjourning to our sponsoring restaurant, Harbord House, afterwards. Please RSVP to tpw@rogers.com so we can confirm numbers.

On August 22, the day after the Midsummer’s Race, Rorie will be once again hosting a pool party. Thank you Rorie! Mark the date in your calendar – details to come.

Come on out to our regular spot this Tuesday (if you are new or have forgotten see sidebar). We also look forward to seeing you on Thursdays at the Community Centre (again see sidebar).

Another busy weekend for TPW

2010-06-02T11:12:00.004-04:00

Toronto Power Walkers had another busy weekend with training walks, hiking, racing and volunteering.

Training first, a small group of approx 6 walkers were out in High Park Saturday morning walking the distance. Linda was hiking 17k on a hilly, rocky route through Scottsdale Farm, Hole in the wall and Limestone. Those locations sound more like the American west that Southern Ontario. I am sure Linda will be happy to share her experience .. just ask.

A group of us, (Sue, Lorna and Ela) volunteered for another year at the annual Kidsfest 5k event. It is inspiring to see the children and families at this event knowing they trained all year to run the 5K .Check out the organization's website to learn more.

Sunday, was more volunteering, this time at the Toronto Women’s Half Marathon. Rorie and Phyllis volunteered at the Pottery Rd water station. Barbara was with the ‘Men from Rosedale’, David and Katherine volunteered as well.

Congratulations to TPW'ers who completed another half marathon!! We were well represented at the race, Ela, Lorna, Sue, Diane, Sherry, Lee, Rosemarie, Fiona, Deborah and Susan E. did the race, some for the second year in a row.

If you haven't been active with TPW in the past few months...now is the time to change that .We want to see your smiling face. Don't worry about the distances, just come out , we would love to see you

We will be training 3 times a week as a group and also will begin to train for fall races. A number of us are registered for the Kitchener Waterloo Walkers Classic Half Marathon on Sept 26. It is a walker only competitive race. .
Others are registered for the Toronto Marathon October 17th . Phyllis is doing the New York City Marathon on November 7th. I know we will all be looking closely at our TV screens hoping for a glimpse of her on November 7th.

So now is the time to start thinking about your training goals for the fall. Join us Thursday at 6:30 at the North Toronto Community Centre for our training walk. Saturday we start at 7am for the summer training season!!!!

Change of Season

2010-05-25T09:14:00.000-04:00

Although not officially summer, the weather feels like it this week.

After a successful race weekend in Cleveland, and being the May long- weekend, we were pleasantly surprised to have as many as 12.5 walkers out on Sat. in High Park (the half was Susan B. racewalking by as we were cooling down after 14k). For a change, we skipped the ‘once around the park’ and went straight out to the Music Garden and back. FYI, the washrooms are now open. (Oh darn, we forgot to look for the pay one.... something to look for as the distances increase).

Looking forward, we have the Toronto Women’s Half next Sunday. A few of us are not racing, so we’ll be at High Park at 8am. Come to Sunnybrook park on Sunday to cheer, if you are free! You know how much it means to have a friendly face on the sideline cheering you on.

The following weekend – June 5th – marks the beginning of summer hours. We start at 7am at High Park – its cooler early in the AM and you get the distance done before many others are up and around!

We also need to think about our fall goals – marathon (Toronto International, Scotiabank, Hamilton), half marathon (Scotia, Kitchener-Waterloo), or something else. We’ll create training plans for the races, and post the weekly distances for popular ones. We should probably have a ‘quarterly meeting’ soon, to ensure that we’re all on track (and other reasons).

Stay cool and hydrated as you walk the distance!

An awesome weekend in Cleveland

2010-05-18T09:26:00.006-04:00

Wow, what a weekend!

Rorie, Helen, Laurel, Lorna, Lee, Barb, Mary, Diane, Sue Carol, Suzanne, Shirley, Sherry and Phyllis and a few ‘good men’ traveled to Cleveland. We were joined by Margie and Raine from the Shorethings. We had great weather in a great city, giant food portions (by Canadian standards) and terrific travel arrangements including a super hotel, arranged by Sherry. We even found time to visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Sherry, as many of you may know, signed up to do the marathon in Cleveland but wasn’t able to train because she was volunteering at the Olympics this winter. Her plan was to walk the half marathon with the rest of us. Somewhere along the way the 21k turned to 30k, and to my surprise when I checked her results.....it appears that she finished the race in an amazing time –especially for someone who hadn’t trained! She was #1 in her division. In fact, most of our walkers finished in the top 10 of their age/sex division. It was a very walker-friendly event with a decent but small expo...a race that many would return to, I am sure.

Toronto Power Walkers rocked at the Cleveland Rock and Roll ‘Marathon’ – in more ways than one!

In two weeks we have another half marathon that many of our walkers are preparing for, fortunately, located nearby, in Sunnybrook Park. If you’re in town and not racing, come out and cheer!

See you on Tuesday night for interval training, or to show off your medal!

The Example(s)

2010-05-10T19:00:00.002-04:00

The Example(s)

At a 10 K race I volunteered at last weekend, at the back of the pack there was an adult and a child. The child walked past the finish line and asked with a look of absolute amazement, " I actually did it "? The adult and I looked at each other, and in that very brief look we communicated to each other "Thank goodness, this is now the beginning of something positive for the little one". The adult kneeled in front of the child and while holding both of the child's little hands, looked at the child and said, "Yes, you did it, you finished the race". The child brimmed with pride.

Six days later Barb, Carol, Diane, Ela, Helen, Laurel, Libby (first time walking with us), Lynn, Mary G, Phyllis, Rorie, Sue, Susan S. and I gathered to walk various distances on a cool Saturday morning. It was threatening to rain, but luck allowed us to walk before the downpour. Fast forward six or seven days - a dozen or so of our members will be descending on the Cleveland Rock’ N Roll marathon (and half marathon).

Between now and then we will be quietly and not so quietly be watched by children who are biological and non biological members of our family. Like the adult to whom the child finishing the 10K turned for affirmation, many of us will be looked to as examples and some of the children will need that additional affirmation.

As a group what is important to us is having fun things to do and being inclusive of like-minded people who are not necessarily a part of the group, while we walk the distance. That’s the example that we set as a group. That includes Sherry having organized the Cleveland accommodations , Laurel’s research and planning for the best shopping (Grove City) on the way to Cleveland, Saturday night dinner that includes members of other ‘clubs’ such as the Rosedale Running Room (it helps to be related to one of our members).

I met someone at breakfast yesterday after our Saturday morning walk who told me that when she started walking two years ago, MS symptoms ravaged her. I asked her how she chose walking as an activity. As she ate her eggs and toast, she told me of her adult example and how she, turned to the adult example for affirmation. What she told me mirrored what I saw in the face of the child that finished the 10K race and I began to think about our group and the example we provide.

What is unique to our example (besides most of us being middle- aged women thereby being an example to the children that what is presently negatively aligned with ageism is not necessarily a truism) is that having fun and being inclusive of like-minded people while walking the distance is our way of individually affirming a lifestyle that allows us to 'Walk the Distance'.

Keep on Walking the Distance, and having fun! Good luck to those going to Cleveland. Bring those spinning guitar medals home!

A few notes to add:

Marcy says hello to the group. She and a friend will be doing a Disney race in October 2010.
Rosemarie says hello too, to everyone and that she hopes that soon she will be able to walk with us soon.
Planning ahead - Linda and I (Susan B), are planning to hike the third Saturday in July. Anyone interested in joining us is welcome. Details to come.

The walking wounded and happy endings

2010-05-04T09:20:00.002-04:00

Sue and I both were feeling less than perfect this past weekend – I was recovering from a minor medical procedure and Sue had twisted her back. However we both vowed to do a little leisurely walk on Saturday and to participate in the Sporting Life 10K on Sunday. Said we: “We will just amble along and do it but we won’t go fast.” That was the plan.

On Saturday at 8:00 we met up with a good-sized group at High Park. Some keeners had started earlier and our group had various goals for the day. Rorie was trying to find someone to go 20K with her (Sue and I declined but Carol was up to the challenge), others were aiming for between 12 and 16K (Sue and I declined) and Susan E wanted to do about 6K (Sue and I voted to keep her company). We did as we had planned, setting an easy pace and enjoying the scenery (has there ever been a spring like this one?). Over breakfast we reaffirmed that we would keep our moderate pace for the 10K the next day. So far, so good.

Sunday’s forecast threatened rain and thunderstorms. However all was dry when some of us (Sherry, Linda, Ela, Susan E, Lee, Susan S, Lynn, Sue and Diane) met at 7:30 at Trulls Funeral Home. Others were in the race (Deb, Lorna, David and Helen who had volunteered to monitor the participants at the tail end of the race) but we didn’t all meet up until breakfast.

On with my story of the walking wounded – somehow or other Sue and I wound up walking with Sherry and Susan S and doing the first 5K at a blistering fast 8 min/K before we came to our senses. And even then we both finished in a very respectable 1.23.25 plus a bit. So much for ambling. Shows you that you never know what you are capable of until you get out and try.

Huge congratulations to Sherry who finished first in her age group (and single handedly held the rain off until the end of the race) and Susan S and Lynn who both finished second in their age groups, and to Susan E on her first race. Thank you to Carol, Laurel, Jeff, Neil, Rob and Jim for cheering us on and to Sue for organizing the brunch.

A final story – Sue’s driver’s license, debit and credit card dropped out of her belt pack somewhere between the restaurant and Mountain Co-op. We retraced our steps but, not unexpectedly, found nothing. However, when Sue got home she found that a good Samaritan had phoned to say he had found her cards. Don’t you love a happy ending?

High Park was beautiful this last weekend in April…

2010-04-27T13:21:00.002-04:00

The High Park we entered just before 8:00 a.m. on Saturday was like downtown in rush hour! Loads of people, cars, hardly any parking spots and huge line-ups for breakfast. Most of the visitors to the park were admiring the spectacular display of flowering trees on Cherry Hill. In fact, the blossoming trees on our route kept us from noticing much else as we finished our first 3K. Even the zoo animals and birds had come to life!

Rorie, Phyllis, Ela and James started at 7:00 a.m. to accommodate schedules for the weekend (see note from James below). Great to have James back for the day! The 8:00 a.m. crowd - Carol, Sherry, Barbara, Lee, Susan S, Fiona, Klara, Susan B, Diane and Sue began with the first 3K route around the park. It was great to have Diane back and Sue (that would be me) – always on the lookout for an excuse to shorten the route – accompanied Diane for a gentle 6.5K and breakfast. They held tables for the rest of the group who arrived back, having completed their 16K.

The Sporting Life 10K is scheduled for next Sunday, May 2nd, so those doing the race will meet for 5-6K on Saturday morning. The rest of the group will do 20K in preparation for the Cleveland Half on May 16th. See sidebar for training details.

Sporting Life - A post-race brunch will be held at The Foggy Dew, 803 King St. W. at 10:30 a.m. If you haven’t already RSVP’d, please email Sue at tpw@rogers.com to be included in the numbers.

Cleveland - Looking ahead, Sherry has booked two tables of 10 at The Cleveland Chophouse at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday night, May 15th. Please RSVP to Sherry through the Google group if you’d like to be included in the group of 20. Click on link to view the menu.

Looking forward to seeing everyone for intervals on Tuesday (that’s tonight)!

Hello from the Energizer Bunny (aka James)

2010-04-25T09:25:00.002-04:00

It was a pleasure to find myself in the company of 3 lovely ladies for a morning walk around High Park (Ela, Phyllis and Rorie). Although a bit cold at such an early hour, (half an hour past sunrise), I had no fear of rain thanks to the power of the 'No Rain Jacket' of Rorie's. We varied our route slightly, as we skipped zoo hill, in favour of the visual beauty of the Grenadier Pond and up cherry blossoms hill, where we turned around once the hill was completed (hill training for Phyllis) and walk back down to start the normal route along the lakefront (heading West then East).

For those that have not yet taken this route, it is strongly recommended while the cherry blossoms are still present. Prior to leaving the park, the four of us stopped for photos. Having walk for an extra 25 minutes West along the lakeshore, I returned to High Park for 5 km once around the lower trails (and briefly walked past the second shift setting out on there way down to the lake). It was a pleasure to see you all and hopefully, we will see each other more often as the TPW are now in the park. Much fun will be had, that, I have no doubt.

Back at High Park for a while

2010-04-20T05:48:00.000-04:00

It felt good to be back at High Park again...easing into the spring schedule slowly with an 8am start. We had a terrific turnout (18), too many to list individually, especially considering the daunting distance (21k+) scheduled for the day, and the forecasted rain and cold temperatures. We were pleasantly surprised that the rain held off until the last two walkers came in.

It was great walking and talking, catching up with everyone – talking about Cleveland - travel and training plans, the Toronto Women’s Half in late May and of course Sporting Life 10k in early May. There were many fall races being considered – Scotia and Kitchener- Waterloo Walking Half, Toronto International and Hamilton Marathons, and for some crazy folks, Disney in early January. It’ll be a busy ‘season’ – hard to know when it ends and the new year begins. Whatever plans you have, training, racing or walking, it doesn’t matter...just get out and ‘walk the distance’, and have fun!

Good luck to Mary W. heading out to Big Sur soon for a 21 miler. I understand that she’s been training diligently on the High Park hills and with WOW this winter. We can’t wait to hear all about it!

Tuesday interval training is in full swing, come join us. Next Saturday, we meet at High Park at 8am, see the sidebar for training distances. A few of us are meeting at 7am, due to busy personal schedules that day, feel free to join us.

See you next week!

Walking the Distance and a State of Restfulness

2010-04-13T19:05:00.001-04:00

I recall decades ago travelling by train between Brockville and Montreal and experiencing a restfulness not related to silence. The train was full of young people; loud young people around the same age as I was at that time. It lacked the tranquility of an environment that even I as a young person associated with restfulness yet restfulness is what I was experiencing. In hindsight, I am of the opinion that this experience of being at rest had to do with the betwixt space of time I was in.

Somewhere walking or chatting with Klara, Deborah, Diane, Fiona, Helen, Lee, Linda, Phyllis, Rorie, Sue and Susan E., I am not sure exactly where, I was revisited by the experience I had on the train so many years ago. Like the train being between Brockville and Montreal, the walk I was in, was during a space of time between home and a visit with a family member. Like the train being full of loud chatting people, we were chatting loudly. In this world of frantic deadlines, various constructed realities formed to achieve hidden agendas, global warming and all other such controversies I was, for a period of time, walking in a state of restfulness with like-minded health conscious ( mostly) middle age women. Like the train of those days(before cell phones, blackberries and all other such technologies) only the chattering of people speaking to physically present people was heard.

Could walking now in my life, at the ripe old age of 56, with it’s betwixt space of time be my new state of restfulness? Walking the distance and resting. The two states would never have been compatible to me before. Silence and the tranquility it produces has for me, been associated with rest. The association of walking distances and rest is definitely new. It has a pluralistic feel to it as though stepping from one reality to another.

This Saturday (April 17th 2010 at 8 am) starts the beginning of us meeting at High Park. Maybe all of those hills at High Park and the 20 K plus distances will throw me back into the previous reality of walking being a means of staying healthy. Maybe I will look back at this experience and acknowledge that it was simply a recollection of an experience I had in my youth. Maybe, but, somehow I doubt it.