Running in the Dark

I don't like Daylight Savings Time.  "Spring ahead, fall back".  I can never get it right.  Like most others, I sleep terribly for a couple of days after the bi-annual time change. Last weekend we had the Spring Ritual of 'spring ahead' when we moved the clocks ahead. I was a marketing guy so I professionally appreciate the catchy description.  But it doesn't mask the fact that after a all too brief few weeks of early morning runs in the soft morning light, I'm back to running in the dark.

There is some irony to me running in the dark as I start regular running again after recovering from my foot injury.  That's how I started running many years ago (How it Started).  But I'm not hiding from anyone now and like exchanging the 'Runner's Hand Flip' with other runners I meet.  It's easier to do that when we can see each other.

I also hate being super vigilant in pre-dawn runs with vehicles.  I always run facing traffic and mostly stay on the sidewalks.  There is one stretch of road without sidewalks and even with the clearly delineated Bike Lane, cars and especially SUV's seem oblivious.  And I have my Running Room Reflective Gear!

There is only one day of the year when running in the dark is actually fabulous:  The first Saturday of December for the annual running of the Reggae Marathon. This year it's on December 7 and it will be my 5th consecutive time in Negril, Jamaica.  The drumming, the torch lights, the crowds...all anxious to get started promptly at 5:15 am.  And come to think of it, little Jamaica doesn't observe Daylight Savings Time!

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy
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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013.  My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31.  My planned races in 2013 include:

1. The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
2. The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
3. The Reggae Marathon, December 7.  

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.