Sunday, August 26, 2012

Preseason is over; let 2012-2013 begin!

Our short but productive preseason for cross country has concluded. Classes start at Marist on Monday -- hard to believe, as it still looks and very much feels like summer out there. Preseason was a smooth success this year. The weather was nearly perfect -- not a hint of rain. Sure, it was warm. But the humidity was relatively low and the nights and early mornings were cool. Just perfect.

On Saturday, our women did a 3,000-meter time trial over at the Vassar College track (side note: As always, we are extremely appreciative to coach James McCowan and the friendly folks across town for letting us use their beautiful facility!). It was quite hot at the track. I got there toward the tail end of the workout and most looked strong. There were a few ladies who struggled with breathing issues on the hot and dry morning. But otherwise, it was a steady and controlled workout.

The men's team did a long run with pushes on Saturday morning. The men ran from campus, over to Vassar College Farm, and did 2x4k on the gravel road at the Farm. On the 8km gravel road, the guys did a few controlled fartlek pushes. Then, they got a little water from the van, and headed back to Marist. Some of the guys did a detour at the track to cheer on the ladies and to add on some miles. It was a 14-16 mile run for most of the guys -- some went even longer.

After an easy Sunday, it's back to work and to the daily grind of classes and practice and doubling on Monday. And so begins the long and winding journey through our three seasons of competition.


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