Training Log Archive: Sandy

I'm getting tired of hearing that OUSA does nothing for its members. Here are a couple of things I get from my OUSA membership:

- access to maps and events: if OUSA didn't negotiate insurance coverage for events, clubs in my area wouldn't be able to put on any events and get permission to make any maps and I wouldn't be able to orienteer.

- the feeling that I'm part of a national and worldwide organization: I take orienteering a lot more seriously because there is some structure. Without it, it would feel more like a hobby than a sport. Although there are lots of arguments over mapping and event structure and so forth, the fact that there are some standards against which to compare things gives me a feeling that it's not all random and totally at the whim of the local organizers. I love that I can orienteer at DVOA events or QOC events or UNO events or BAOC events or O-Ringen or spectator races at WOC and know that it's the same sport.

- having national teams: I love the fact that I know some of the national team athletes and can follow their training and competitions and vicariously savor their successes. Without a national organization there would not be national teams.

Those are the most important for me and, by themselves, well worth the cost of an OUSA membership. Everything else is gravy.

C • Thank you 2

A very low-key yoga class. So low-key that I was thinking of not logging it, but I made the effort to get to class so in my book it counts.

Up and down my reentrant a few times. Pleasant out.

I go much faster when I go with Sandy. :)

Beautiful day out. Used my hiking poles. My knees have been starting to hurt after about an hour most days when I'm on the trails (they're not as bad when I'm in the woods off-trail) and I've just been trying to ignore it or stop and stretch. Today I tried using my hiking poles and that worked well - they didn't bother me until after the 2 hour mark and even then not as bad as usual. I did have to keep stopping and adjust them though - they're the telescoping kind and they kept collapsing down. I'm not sure if I'm just not strong enough to tighten them all the way anymore or if they've worn out over the years and don't lock as well.

C • Telescoping poles 3

Really pretty in the Wissahickon today with the trees all covered in melting ice. Trails were a bit sloppy but I wore some studded icebugs and had no problems. I also managed to dress just about right - wasn't cold at the start and taking off my hat and mittens kept me comfortable towards the end.