As I was packing to go on my first vacation since the Christmas/New Year’s Holidays, I realized I need to run four times while I am out of my city.  In unfamiliar territory.  Out of my comfort zone.  In cities where I won’t know North, East, South or West like the back of my hand, and frankly, it’s a little intimidating.

Fortunately, this will not be a super long distance weekend for me.  With the Newport Marathon only a week and a half away, this Saturday I only need to run 8 miles, and tomorrow, I happen to be lucky enough to get to run with my Grampa – a nice, short four mile run (I’m learning to love the short).  I am especially grateful that it is short because I am no longer in the cool, breezy northwest, having taken up residence slightly further South in Las Vegas for a couple of days.  This run may be in 75 degree heat, and I am trying to mentally prepare myself to feel too warm.  

On Saturday, I will have the good fortune to be spending time with my best friend in LA, who tells me she knows the perfect spot for me to do my 8 mile run (possibly – or quite likely – also a warm run).  I am looking forward to exploring some unknown terrain over the next few days.  A change of scenery will (hopefully) bring some great photo ops!

How do you prepare for travel when you are training for a race?  

Happy running!
~Alaina