Orienteering5:04:28 [3] 31.61 km (9:38 / km) +971m8:21 / km shoes: NB wt00 #2
First time running the Hudson Highlander. Glad the tradition allows the course-setter to do this. I felt the course had decent flow but at the same time offered varied sections to keep mind and body occupied. The colors of the forest were just spectacular. I managed to make a mistake on #2 where I wanted to try the rightmost route, got stuck in the deadfall and then got turned around in mtn laurel. Popped up to the trail and was all confused as to how I got there. Finished loop 1 and trail run strong but on Rockhouse loop the blueberry bushes were getting to me and I didn't think I was going to make. R. IT band started seizing up and locking my knee, making it difficult to run. Then it started snowing and I took it as positive sign, smiled and became determined to finish. I slowed down of course, but made it around the last loop just fine.
So wasted afterwards though, even dizzy. L. achilles, R. knee and pf in pain but hopefully just temporary.
Glad Highlander was a success. I attribute most of that to Ching-Hua's amazing ability to bring everyone together and getting things done right.
O-training2:05:07 8.99 km (13:55 / km) +257m12:11 / km shoes: NB wt00 #2
Putting out flags for the Highlander! The forest is absolutely stunning. I so love setting for the fall events b/c I get to enjoy the woods at a slower pace when putting out controls and really soak in the colors. I put out the flags in reverse order on this loop, and as I was continuing on gingerly and smiling like a fool that I am, in total "la la" land, I encountered a black bear, maybe about 70 meters away on side of a hill I needed to traverse. Strangely, I did not get scared. He was a full grown bear who seemed as he was also enjoying the great outdoors. We both stopped and stared at each other, he moved a few meters up the hill, I waited, moved forward into his sight again, we stared at each other some more, and he nonchalantly continued up the hill. I think we both were a little curious of one another. I waited a little bit before continuing on to the control I needed to place, which was not that far from where the bear had been.
I really hope that tomorrow orienteers will not provoke him in any way.
Running45:04 [2] 7.68 km (5:52 / km) +71m5:36 / km shoes: Altra 1.5
Have been battling sore throat past few days, feeling rather weak on this run but it was good to sweat it out. According to my mom whenever you're feeling sick you should go for a run, so there you go, got to listen to mom.
Hike with a friend at delaware water gap. I'm enjoying my last few days of freedom. Monday I start a new job, and I'm preparing to give away my life and soul.